There are still a handful of quality NFL free agents left for teams to choose from before the NFL draft.
It’s not a matter of how much money it will take to sign the free agents, but rather which one will bring the most bang for the buck.
In no particular order, here are the best four remaining NFL free agents and which teams should sign them.
LaDainian Tomlinson RB
There’s no denying that LaDainian Tomlinson has entered the twilight of his NFL career. Nine hard seasons have taken their toll on one of the best running backs of our time.
Despite what the San Diego Chargers think, Tomlinson still has something to offer to an NFL franchise. But that is up to L.T.
He would need to accept the role as a secondary back and carry the ball 10 to 15 times per game. Tomlinson has lost his breakaway speed but still has the moves for short yardage situations, especially in the red zone.
The New York Jets are an interesting choice and would provide Tomlinson with some running room behind their dominant offensive line.
Jake Delhomme QB
Yes, we know Delhomme had an absolutely awful 2009 season. After compiling a 59.4 QB rating and throwing a career-high 18 interceptions, the Carolina Panthers had to release him.
However, his release doesn’t mean Delhomme has seen the end of his NFL career.
In fact, teams with an inexperienced or fragile quarterback should take a hard look at Delhomme. His NFL experience would be valuable coming off the bench during the season.
The Detroit Lions or the Arizona Cardinals would be a perfect fit for him to get things back on track next season.
Willie Parker RB
After losing his starting job to Rashard Mendenhall last year, the Pittsburgh Steelers found they could live without Willie Parker. This decision could prove to be a bonus for the team that signs him.
Not only is he under thirty years of age, but Parker still has enough speed to be effective. He would be the perfect fit on an offense that wants to use multiple backs.
Parker would be a good choice for the Washington Redskins, who could use him to reduce the load on Clinton Portis.
Terrell Owens WR
The more I think about it, the more I am sold that Terrell Owens still has the potential to be one of the best free agent acquisitions if he lands with the right team.
During the 2009 season, Owens averaged 4 receptions for 55 yards per game. While those numbers may not earn him a Pro Bowl berth, they are crucial to a successful passing game.
The only thing to be wary of is if Owens understands he’s no longer the top receiver. If he’s able to check his ego, then Owens should be able to add a few more seasons to his NFL career.
The Oakland Raiders, New York Jets or Miami Dolphins would be wise to sign Owens to a contract for one year to add depth to suspect wide receiver corps.
