As teams jump into mini-camps and
prepare for training camp, coaching staffs are
frantically working their depth charts in search of
the perfect Super Bowl combination. I thought I'd
change the pace and look at the Free Agency period,
while the Internet is bombarded with draft ratings.
As a result, I have examined this year's Free Agent
acquisitions and ranked the top 5-best/worst
signings. Naturally, Quarterback is a popular
position in the rankings.
Top 5 singings in Free Agency:
1. Drew Brees (New Orleans Saints).
Drew Brees is a top quarterback in the NFL and I
think the Chargers made a huge mistake letting him
go. Regardless, the Saints are in store for an
excellent year on offence and after a rough season
on and off the field, the Saints should jump into
the season much improved.
2. Edgerrin James (Arizona Cardinal).
The Cardinals continue to appear 1 year away from
greatness. Last year was suppose to be their
break-out year; however, their running game
faltered. This year the team has a quality Running
Back who can improve their running game and open the
passing game up for Warner (and eventually
Leinart). This is the year the Cardinals make a
giant leap in the NFC.
3. LaVar Arrington (NY Giants).
The Giants had glaring needs at Linebacker and LaVar
will be an immediate impact player. As the G-men
attempt to win their division in a competitive NFC
East, Arrington could be the key to shutting down
their divisional opponents.
4. Adam Vinatieri (Indianapolis Colts).
How did the Patriots let this guy get away?
Vinatieri is the premier clutch kicker and should
give the Colts an excellent chance at the Super Bowl
- unless, well let's just say the Colts have
protection problems.
5. Antwaan Randel El (Washington Redskins).
The Redskins were quiet on draft weekend; however,
Randal El was an excellent Free Agent signing.
Complementing Pro Bowler Santana Moss will give the
Redskins 2 wide-outs worthy of double teams.
6. Terrell Owens (Dallas Cowboys)
Ok, I know I said top 5, but TO is worthy of
mentioning here.
Worst 5 signings in Free Agency:
1. Brian Griese (Chicago Bears).
Sure Brian Griese is becoming the perennial
journeyman in the NFL; however, this is a slight
against the Bears. Was an upgrade at QB really an
issue for the Bears? Grossman and Orton should
provide enough youth and depth at this position in
Chicago. How about spending money on someone who
can catch a pass.
2. Aaron Brooks (Oakland Raiders).
This signing makes no sense. Andrew Walter is the
projected starter in the future, so why pick-up an
over-rated veteran like Brooks?
3. Craig Nall (Buffalo Bills).
The Bills are confusing everyone. Is Losman their
starter? Have they given up on the first round pick
already? Craig Nall should not have any trouble
becoming the 3rd string QB for the Bills. As a
lifetime back up to Brett Favre, Nall has limited
credentials in meaningless on field duty.
4. Billy Cundiff (Green Bay Packers).
The reason the Packers missed Adam Vinatieri and
Mike Vanderjagt can be summed up in two
words....Brett Favre. After pondering his future
too long, the Packers were reduced to signing Billy
Cundiff to replace long-time kicker Ryan Longwell.
5. Todd Collins (Washington Redskins).
The Redskins have Mark Brunell, who can revive his
career with excellent targets this year. Waiting in
the wings is Jason Campbell, a first round draft
pick. This makes no sense; however, Washington is
becoming famous for making poor signing.
6. Terrell Owens (Dallas Cowboys).
Ok, I know I said top 5, but TO is worthy of
mentioning here.
