QB | RB | FB | WR | TE | OT | G | C | DE | DT | OLB | ILB | CB | S | K/P | FA Grades | FA Team Grades
2021 NFL Free Agency: The top 100 unrestricted NFL free agents for 2021. Fullbacks, kickers and punters are excluded. Star rating is out of five. Age listing as of Sept. 1, 2021.
Follow me @walterfootball for updates.
Note that there are not 100 players yet, but there will be additions as cuts begin.
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Yannick Ngakoue, DE/OLB, Ravens. Age: 26. 
Signed with Raiders
Yannick Ngakoue is an electric pass rusher with enormous upside. He’s only 26, so there’s still room for growth with him.
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Marcus Maye, S, Jets. Age: 27.
Franchised by Jets
Marcus Maye really stepped up in the wake of Jamal Adams’ departure, becoming one of the better safeties in the NFL.
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Joe Thuney, G, Patriots. Age: 28.
Signed with Chiefs (5 years, $80 million)
Joe Thuney is an excellent offensive lineman. Not only does he block extremely well; he can play numerous positions on the front. He deserves a huge contract.
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John Johnson, S, Rams. Age: 25.
Signed with Browns (3 years, $33.75 million)
John Johnson is one of the top safeties in the NFL, and he’s only 25 years old. The sky is the limit for him.
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Justin Simmons, S, Broncos. Age: 27.
Re-signed with Broncos (4 years, $66 million)
Justin Simmons has blossomed into one of the top safeties in the NFL. He has gotten better each season throughout his 5-year career. He has earned a huge contract.
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Marcus Williams, S, Saints. Age: 24.
Franchised by Saints
Marcus Williams is known for surrendering the infamous Stefon Diggs touchdown, but he has developed into a terrific safety. He’s somehow still only 24 years old.
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Corey Linsley, C, Packers. Age: 30.
Signed with Chargers (5 years, $62.5 million)
Corey Linsley is one of the top centers in the NFL. His absence was felt in the middle of the season when the Packers struggled to blow out the opposition. His only downside is that he has entered his 30s, but that’s not a big deal.
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Allen Robinson, WR, Bears. Age: 28.
Franchised by Bears
Allen Robinson is coming off his second-best season, catching 102 passes for 1,250 yards. It’s such a shame that Robinson has only been paired with pedestrian quarterbacks throughout his career.
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Chris Godwin, WR, Buccaneers. Age: 25.
Franchised by Buccaneers
Chris Godwin is an exceptional receiver who is only 25, so he’ll be due for a huge contract. Godwin endured injuries in 2020, which is why he had just 840 yards and seven touchdowns. He tallied 1,333 yards and nine scores the year before.
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Aaron Jones, RB, Packers. Age: 26.
Re-signed with Packers (4 years, $48 million)
Aaron Jones isn’t an elite back, but he’s on the next tier. He’s averaged 5.5 yards per carry or better in three of his four seasons, and he’s a dynamic receiver out of the backfield. He’s only 26, and he has just 651 career carries, so he’s not worn down at all.
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JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR, Steelers. Age: 24.
Re-signed with Steelers (1 year, $8 million)
JuJu Smith-Schuster is an exceptional talent who will only get better because he’s only 24 years old.
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Kyle Fuller, CB, Bears. Age: 29.
Signed with Broncos (1 year, $9.5 million)
Bears general manager Ryan Pace cut Kyle Fuller so he could afford to sign Andy Dalton. Great! Fuller was a Pro Bowl cornerback in 2018 and 2019, but is coming off a down year. He should rebound this upcoming season.
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Brandon Scherff, G/OT, Redskins. Age: 29.
Franchised by Redskins
When healthy, Brandon Scherff is one of the top guards in the NFL. He can also play tackle. He’s not yet 30 as well. All of this would give him 4.5 stars or more, but the problem is that he has a dubious injury history. Scherff has missed three, five and eight games over the past three seasons.
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Matt Milano, LB, Bills. Age: 26.
Re-signed with Bills (4 years, $44 million)
If you want to see how important Matt Milano is to Buffalo’s defense, watch how much worse it was in 2020 when he was sidelined. Milano is a greatly skilled linebacker who is only 26.
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Kenny Golladay, WR, Lions. Age: 27.
Signed with Giants (4 years, $72 million)
Kenny Golladay has emerged as one of the better receivers in the NFL. He was expected to have a huge 2020, but his season was derailed by injuries.
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Leonard Williams, DE/DT, Giants. Age: 27.
Re-signed with Giants (3 years, $63 million)
Leonard Williams has gotten lots of flak over the years because he didn’t really live up to his first-round billing with the Jets, but he’s coming off an amazing 2020 campaign with the Giants.
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David Andrews, C, Patriots. Age: 29.
Re-signed with Patriots (4 years)
David Andrews is coming off a down year because he dealt with an injury. He should be able to rebound in 2021 and reestablish himself as one of the better centers in the NFL.
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Shaq Barrett, DE, Buccaneers. Age: 28.
Re-signed with Buccaneers (4 years, $72 million)
Shaq Barrett had a ridiculous 19.5 sacks in 2019. There was some regression to the mean in 2020, but he still logged eight sacks. He’s due for a big contract.
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Dak Prescott, QB, Cowboys. Age: 28.
Re-signed with Cowboys (4 years)
Dak Prescott suffered a gruesome injury in Week 5, but appears to be healthy. This means Jerry Jones will likely give Prescott a colossal deal, given that Prescott was throwing for 450 yards every week prior to his injury.
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Bud Dupree, DE/OLB, Steelers. Age: 28.
Signed with Titans
The Steelers really missed Bud Dupree down the stretch, as they began losing without him. He logged eight sacks in 11 games, and he has 19.5 sacks in the past two years.
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J.J. Watt, DE/DT, Texans. Age: 32.
Signed with Cardinals
The Texans somehow didn’t obtain any assets for J.J. Watt. This means that three of the four pillars of their franchise – Watt, DeAndre Hopkins and Jadeveon Clowney t go along with Deshaun Watson – were moved for the sum of two second-day picks, decrepit running back David Johnson and Jacob Martin. Unreal. Watt turns 32 in March, so his 20-sack days are clearly behind him, but he was still terrific last year. He’s a great short-term signing because he can help a team get over the top and win the Super Bowl with his talent and leadership.
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Trey Hendrickson, DE, Saints. Age: 26.
Signed with Bengals (4 years, $60 million)
Trey Hendrickson recorded 13.5 sacks in 2020 despite not being an every-down player. The sky is the limit for Hendrickson, who is only 26 years old.
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Lavonte David, LB, Buccaneers. Age: 31.
Re-signed with Buccaneers
Lavonte David has been one of the most underrated players in the NFL throughout his career. He would be a five-star player if he were a few years younger. He could still play at an All-Pro level going forward, but there is some danger of regression at 31.
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Jayon Brown, LB, Titans. Age: 26.
Re-signed with Titans (1 year, $5.25 million)
Jayon Brown is an excellent linebacker, particularly when it comes to coverage. He’s only 26, so he should be able to keep improving his game.
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Taylor Moton, OT, Panthers. Age: 27.
Franchised by Panthers
Taylor Moton has improved each year in the NFL. He has become one of the better right tackles in the NFL, so he deserves a big contract.
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David DeCastro, G, Steelers. Age: 31.
David DeCastro is one of the best guards in the NFL, when healthy. The Steelers wouldn’t have cut him if he didn’t have some injury issues, and that appears to be the case with his troublesome ankle. DeCastro is 31, but because guards can play well into their mid-30s, he could recover and eventually be a force for some team.
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Matt Feiler, G, Steelers. Age: 29.
Signed with Chargers (3 years, $21 million)
Matt Feiler was sorely missed down the stretch when he was sidelined with an injury. He’s a very talented guard, and he should be able to perform on a high level throughout the duration of his next contract.
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Trent Williams, OT, 49ers. Age: 33.
Re-signed with 49ers (6 years, $138 million)
Despite sitting out all of 2019, Trent Williams was amazing in his return to action. He was a great replacement for Joe Staley. Age is the only concern.
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Shelby Harris, DT, Broncos. Age: 30.
Re-signed with Broncos (3 years, $27 million)
Shelby Harris continues to improve each year. He was terrific in 2020, thriving against the run and being even better as a pass rusher. The only negative with Harris is that he turns 30 in August.
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Jadeven Clowney, DE/OLB, Titans. Age: 28.
Signed with Browns (1 year)
Jadeveon Clowney was a disappointment for the Titans, failing to record a sack in 2020. He has yet to notch double-digit sacks throughout his career. He’s overrated as a pass rusher, but plays very well against the run.
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Kyle Van Noy, OLB, Dolphins. Age: 30.
Signed with Patriots
Kyle Van Noy does everything, whether it’s rush the passer successfully, clamp down on the run or drop into coverage. He had a down year in 2020, but only because he dealt with hip and groin injuries. Age will soon become a concern, but Van Noy is expected to bounce back in 2021.
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Carl Lawson, DE, Bengals. Age: 26.
Signed with Jets (3 years, $45 million)
Carl Lawson has notched 10.5 sacks over the past couple of seasons, and he was Cincinnati’s sole consistent pass rusher in 2020. Turning 26 this summer, Lawson has plenty of upside.
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Dalvin Tomlinson, DT, Giants. Age: 27.
Signed with Vikings (2 years, $22 million)
Dalvin Tomlinson is a monstrous run stuffer who is capable of generating decent pressure on the quarterback.
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Will Fuller, WR, Texans. Age: 27.
Signed with Dolphins (1 year)
Will Fuller didn’t exactly look like a No. 1 receiver last year in the wake of DeAndre Hopkins’ absence. However, he still had some explosive games and is definitely worthy of a big contract. However, I can understand teams being worried about his injury history.
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William Jackson, CB, Bengals. Age: 27.
Signed with Redskins
William Jackson has been an excellent cornerback for the Bengals over the past four years. He’s played just one full season, but that’s the only knock on him.
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Adoree Jackson, CB, Titans. Age: 25.
Signed with Giants (3 years, $39 million)
Tennessee’s strategy of cutting Adoree Jackson makes very little sense. Sure, he’s been limited to 14 games the past two years, but Jackson is a supremely talented cornerback who won’t turn 26 until mid-September. He could bounce back with some dominant seasons, and I’m sure teams will be very interested in his versatility.
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Levi Wallace, CB, Bills. Age: 26.
Re-signed with Bills (1 year)
Levi Wallace is a very talented, young cornerback who has tons of upside. He wasn’t healthy for a portion of the 2020 season.
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Antonio Brown, WR, Buccaneers. Age: 33.
Antonio Brown is difficult to rank. He’s still one of the most talented receivers in the NFL, though at the age of 33, he could regress. Even worse, Brown is always in serious danger of having a mental breakdown and being suspended.
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Desmond King, S/CB, Titans. Age: 26.
Signed with Texans (1 year)
Desmond King is a talented player who can literally play everywhere in the secondary. He’s also a good return specialist. He’s a valuable player to have on a roster because of his flexibility.
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Daryl Williams, OT, Bills. Age: 29.
Re-signed with Bills (3 years, $28.2 million)
Daryl Williams has a checkered injury history, but we saw what he was capable last year when he finally stayed healthy. He was dominant for the Bills in 2020.
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Kawann Short, DT, Panthers. Age: 32.
Kawann Short was once considered one of the top defensive tackles in the NFL. However, he’s played just five games in the past couple of years, and he’s now 32, so he may never be the same again.
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Shaq Griffin, CB, Seahawks. Age: 26.
Signed with Jaguars (3 years, $44.5 million)
Shaq Griffin missed a handful of games in 2020, and he never really looked the same upon his return from injury. He’s still just 26, so he could improve in the near future.
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Hassan Reddick, DE/OLB, Cardinals. Age: 26.
Signed with Panthers
The Cardinals finally figured out how to use Hassan Reddick last year. Reddick failed as an off-line linebacker prior to 2020, but Arizona put him on the edge, where he thrived. Reddick notched 12.5 sacks as a result.
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Brian Poole, CB, Jets. Age: 28.
Signed with Saints (1 year)
Brian Poole was the Jets’ top cornerback last year. He’s emerged as an excellent slot man. He should get a good contract, as he still has a couple of years remaining in his 20s.
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Leonard Floyd, DE/OLB, Rams. Age: 28.
Re-signed with Rams (4 years, $64 million)
Leonard Floyd was seen as a bust as a former first-round pick in Chicago, but the Rams got the most out of him. Floyd registered 10.5 sacks in 2020.
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Xavier Rhodes, CB, Colts. Age: 31.
Re-signed with Colts (1 year, $6.5 million)
Xavier Rhodes was absolutely dreadful for the Vikings in 2019. Perhaps he was dealing with some injury because he revived his career in 2020, serving as a shutdown cornerback for Indianapolis. He’s now 31, but still should have another strong year or two remaining.
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K.J. Wright, LB, Seahawks. Age: 32.
The Seahawks used K.J. Wright all over the defense last year. He did well as a blitzer, and he was strong in coverage. However, he’s 32, so regression is coming soon.
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Casey Hayward, CB, Chargers. Age: 31.
Signed with Raiders
Casey Hayward has been a shutdown cornerback throughout his career, but is coming off his worst year as a pro. He turns 32 in September, but should have some strong seasons remaining.
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Kareem Jackson, S, Broncos. Age: 33.
Re-signed with Broncos
Kareem Jackson performed on a Pro Bowl level last year, but the Broncos may not exercise the club option on him because he’s due $11 million as a 33-year-old.
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Troy Hill, CB, Rams. Age: 30.
Signed with Browns (4 years, $24 million)
Troy Hill was one of the better slot cornerbacks in the NFL last year. He’s now 30, so regression could come soon, but he should still play well the next two years.
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Matthew Judon, DE/OLB, Ravens. Age: 29.
Signed with Patriots (4 years, $56 million)
Matthew Judon has never logged double-digit sacks in a season, but he’s always good for anything between six and 9.5 sacks. He’s missed just four games in his career.
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Steven Nelson, CB, Steelers. Age: 28.
Signed with Eagles (1 year)
Steven Nelson is a quality starting cornerback, but the Steelers had to cut him due to financial reasons.
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Alejandro Villanueva, OT, Steelers. Age: 32.
Signed with Ravens (2 years, $14 million)
Age is becoming a concern for Alejandro Villanueva (32), but he’s still in the upper echelon of starting left tackles in the NFL.
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K’Waun Williams, CB, 49ers. Age: 30.
Re-signed with 49ers (1 year)
K’Waun Williams is an excellent slot cornerback. He is entering his 30s, but he should still be able to perform on a high level for at least two more years.
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Patrick Peterson, CB, Cardinals. Age: 31.
Signed with Vikings (1 year, $10 million)
Patrick Peterson slowed down last year, as he clearly wasn’t the same dominant corner as usual. Age is becoming an issue, though at 31, Peterson could still have some good years remaining.
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Phillip Lindsay, RB, Broncos. Age: 27.
Signed with Broncos (1 year, $3.25 million)
A virtual unknown entering the NFL, Phillip Lindsay would be one of the top running backs on the market this spring if he were unrestricted.
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Curtis Samuel, WR, Panthers. Age: 25.
Signed with Redskins (3 years, $34.5 million; $24.5 million guaranteed)
Curtis Samuel finally developed into the receiver the Panthers thought they were getting a few years ago when they drafted him in the second round. He was an explosive play-maker who was used in all sorts of facets.
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Hunter Henry, TE, Chargers. Age: 26.
Signed with Patriots (3 years, $37.5 million)
Hunter Henry is a tremendous talent, but he’s had trouble staying healthy throughout his career thus far. The upside is there, however, as Henry is just 26.
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Sheldon Rankins, DT, Saints. Age: 27.
Signed with Jets (2 years, $17 million)
Sheldon Rankins didn’t look quite right in 2020. Perhaps this was because of an Achilles injury he suffered the prior year. I expect him to rebound next season.
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Jason Verrett, CB, 49ers. Age: 30.
Re-signed with 49ers (1 year, $5.5 million)
Jason Verrett was excellent last year, which was surprising because he actually stayed healthy for the first time in many seasons. The question is if he can remain healthy going forward. He’s now 30 as well, so that’s another factor that must be considered.
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Ronald Darby, CB, Redskins. Age: 27.
Signed with Broncos (3 years, $30 million)
Ronald Darby was one of many players to leave Philadelphia and improve elsewhere. To be fair, Darby dealt with countless injuries while with the Eagles, but finally stayed healthy while with the Redskins.
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Keanu Neal, S, Falcons. Age: 26.
Signed with Cowboys (1 year, $5 million)
Keanu Neal was once a terrific safety, but injuries have sapped his ability. He’s still a quality player, and he’s also still young (26), so he could rebound in 2021 and beyond.
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T.Y. Hilton, WR, Colts. Age: 31.
Re-signed with Colts (1 year, $10 million)
T.Y. Hilton disappointed from a statistical perspective, but only because he and Philip Rivers didn’t click until the midway point of the season. Hilton could bounce back in 2021, but then again, he’s now 31.
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Malik Hooker, S, Colts. Age: 25.
Signed with Cowboys
Malik Hooker is an exceptional talent, but simply cannot stay healthy. He’s never played a full season, and he’s missed 28 games in four years. The good news is that he’s only 25, so he still has time to turn his career around.
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Quinton Dunbar, CB, Seahawks. Age: 29.
Signed with Lions
Quinton Dunbar was the Redskins’ top cornerback in 2019. He didn’t do as well last year, to put it nicely. He dealt with a lingering knee injury and missed the second half of the year.
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Anthony Harris, S, Vikings. Age: 29.
Signed with Eagles (1 year, $5 million)
Anthony Harris was coming off an amazing 2019 campaign when he entered free agency last spring. The Vikings could have given him a huge contract, but they franchised him instead. This turned out to be a good decision because Harris regressed. He wasn’t bad, but he was far from the dominant player he was prior to 2020.
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Rob Gronkowski, TE, Buccaneers. Age: 32.
Re-signed with Buccaneers (1 year, $10 million)
Rob Gronkowski is no longer the unstoppable beast he once was, but he’s still an effective receiver and a terrific blocker.
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Zach Banner, OT, Steelers. Age: 27.
Re-signed with Steelers
Zach Banner tore his ACL in Week 1, so he should be fully healthy by the time the 2021 season begins. He might be available at a cheaper price than usual because of the injury.
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Chris Carson, RB, Seahawks. Age: 26.
Chris Carson is a solid, but unspectacular starting running back who catches passes well out of the backfield. He missed some time in 2020 with a foot injury.
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Lane Taylor, G, Packers. Age: 31.
Signed with Texans (1 year)
Lane Taylor is a very talented guard, but he’s also a 31-year-old coming off a knee injury, so there is definitely major risk involved.
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Kevin Zeitler, G, Giants. Age: 31.
Signed with Ravens (3 years, $22 million)
The Giants saved $12 million by cutting Kevin Zeitler, though that still seems like a mistake. Zeitler is coming off a down year, but still played well. He’s 31 now, but interior guards can play well into their mid-30s. Some team may strike gold by buying low.
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Mitchell Schwartz, OT, Chiefs. Age: 32.
Mitchell Schwartz is a great right tackle, and under ordinary circumstances, he’d be rated mich higher than this. However, he’s dealing with back problems, and there are rumors that he may retire.
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Rick Wagner, OT, Packers. Age: 31.
Rick Wagner played very well for the Packers last year, but he was released because of financial implications (Green Bay was $11 million over the cap.) He is still a solid starter in the NFL.
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Trai Turner, G, Chargers. Age: 27.
Signed with Steelers
It seemed like the Chargers obtained a steam when they traded for Trai Turner in exchange for Russell Okung. Turner, however, had an injury-ravaged 2020 campaign, which was his worst in the NFL. Turner is still young, however, so he figures to rebound in 2021 and beyond.
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Sheldon Richardson, DT, Browns. Age: 30.
Signed with Vikings (1 year)
Sheldon Richardson was cut for financial reasons; he performed on a high level in 2020, both as a pass rusher and a run supporter. He turns 31 in November.
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Kyle Long, G, Bears. Age: 32.
Signed with Chiefs (1 year, $5 million)
Kyle Long announced his retirement following the 2019 season, but he has returned to the NFL. He’s 32, and it’s unclear if he’s in great shape following his year off. Also, he has an extensive injury history; he missed 20 games in his final two years, and he hasn’t played more than 10 games since 2015. Still, Long was a talented guard when healthy, so if he can stay on the field, he could be a major upgrade for the team that signs him.
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Kyle Rudolph, TE, Vikings. Age: 31.
Signed with Vikings (2 years, $16 million)
Kyle Rudolph is past his prime, but he’s still a solid receiver and great blocker. His numbers were down last year because he blocked so much.
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John Brown, WR, Bills. Age: 31.
Signed with Raiders (1 year)
John Brown is a talented receiver, but was released in order to save the Bills nearly $8 million in cap space and allow Gabriel Davis to get more snaps. Brown’s only issue, beyond his age – 31 in April – is his durability. He missed seven games in 2020.
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Marvin Jones, WR, Lions. Age: 31.
Signed with Jaguars (2 years, $14.5 million)
Marvin Jones is coming off a nice season in which he caught 76 passes for 978 yards and nine touchdowns, doing most of his damage when Kenny Golladay was sidelined. Jones, however, turns 31 this offseason.
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Tashaun Gipson, S, Bears. Age: 31.
Tashaun Gipson did a good job replacing the departed Adrian Amos last year. He was solid in all regards. The only downside is his age (31).
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Alex Mack, C, Falcons. Age: 35.
Signed with 49ers
Alex Mack was once the best center in the NFL – I argued he should have been MVP in the Super Bowl prior to Tom Brady’s comeback from down 28-3 – but at 35, he has regressed in recent years.
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Mike Davis, RB, Panthers. Age: 28.
Signed with Falcons (2 years, $5.5 million)
Mike Davis was an excellent replacement for Christian McCaffrey. Carolina’s offense didn’t slow down every much with Davis in the backfield, as he served as a quality receiver.
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Jamaal Williams, RB, Packers. Age: 26.
Signed with Lions (2 years, $7.5 million)
Jamaal Williams has done well when starting in place of Aaron Jones, both as a runner and a receiver out of the backfield. He deserves a chance to win a starting job for himself.
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Richard Sherman, CB, 49ers. Age: 33.
Richard Sherman played in just five games last year. He struggled, as he wasn’t healthy when he was on the field. He’s 33, however, so he could continue to regress.
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Ndamukong Suh, DT, Buccaneers. Age: 34.
Re-signed with Buccaneers (1 year, $10 million)
Once one of the top defensive tackles in the NFL, Ndamukong Suh has understandably taken a step backward in production now that he’s in his mid-30s.
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Chidobe Awuzie, CB, Cowboys. Age: 26.
Signed with Bengals (3 years)
Chidobe Awuzie was the best cornerback on Dallas’ roster last year, though that’s not saying very much. Awuzie missed some time with an injury as well. He’s only 26, so he should continue to improve.
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Jonnu Smith, TE, Titans. Age: 26.
Signed with Patriots (4 years, $50 million)
Jonnu Smith has loads of potential, but he hasn’t quite lived up to it. He’s played well – 41 catches, 448 yards, eight touchdowns in 2020 – but his numbers should be better. He’s only 26, so he should continue to improve.
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Le’Veon Bell, RB, Chiefs. Age: 29.
Le’Veon Bell shouldn’t have taken a year off, apparently. He hasn’t been the same since sitting out the 2018 season, struggling with both the Jets and the Chiefs. He still has great talent, so it shouldn’t surprise anyone if he gets his act together and has a big 2021. Then again, he could continue to trend toward oblivion.
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Philip Rivers, QB, Colts. Age: 39.
Announced retirement
Philip Rivers served as an upgrade over Jacoby Brissett last year. He played well in most games, but it’s clear he’s no longer the great quarterback he once was.
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Ethan Pocic, C, Seahawks. Age: 26.
Ethan Pocic is a young center who has improved each year. He has plenty of upside as a 26-year-old.
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Ted Karras, C, Dolphins. Age: 28.
Signed with Patriots
Ted Karras filled a need for the Dolphins in the middle of the offensive line. He wasn’t exceptional, but he blocked well, particularly in pass protection.
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Austin Reiter, C, Chiefs. Age: 30.
Austin Reiter was a solid center for the Chiefs last year. His pass protection is much better than his run blocking.
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Sidney Jones, CB, Jaguars. Age: 25.
Re-signed with Jaguars
Sidney Jones is a former first-round prospect who struggled in Philadelphia, but then performed better in Jacksonville. He’s still young (25), so he could turn his career around.
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Ahkello Witherspoon, CB, 49ers. Age: 26.
Signed with Seahawks (1 year)
Ahkello Witherspoon has been incredibly inconsistent throughout his career thus far. He played well in limited action last year, but struggled in 2019. He’s only 26, and the upside is there, so perhaps Witherspoon is undervalued right now.
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Melvin Ingram, DE/OLB, Chargers. Age: 32.
It’s hard to believe that Melvin Ingram is 32. The 2020 campaign was a lost season for him, as he did nothing in seven injury-ridden games. He could bounce back in 2021, but he may regress as well.
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Rayshawn Jenkins, S, Chargers. Age: 27.
Signed with Jaguars (4 years)
Rayshawn Jenkins has made some nice improvements to his game. He missed some tackles in 2020, but he covered very well.
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Kyler Fackrell, DE/OLB, Giants. Age: 29.
Kyler Fackrell was sorely missed late in the season. The Giants began losing without him, then won in Week 17 when he returned. He logged four sacks in 12 games, but was better than that number indicates.
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A.J. Bouye, CB, Broncos. Age: 30.
Signed with Panthers
A.J. Bouye is coming off a down year in which he played seven games. Bouye is still a good cornerback when healthy, but he hasn’t played a full season since 2017.
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Riley Reiff, OT, Vikings. Age: 32.
Signed with Bengals
The latest victim of Kirk Cousins’ terrible contract, Riley Reiff had a solid 2020 campaign, but had to be let go due to Minnesota’s cap woes. Reiff is on the decline at 32, but he can still be a solid starter for the next year or two.
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Carlos Dunlap, DE, Seahawks. Age: 32.
Re-signed with Seahawks (2 years, $16.6 million)
The Seahawks acquired Carlos Dunlap prior to Halloween, and he did very well for them, notching six sacks. Dunlap is a talented player, but the Seahawks cut him because they couldn’t afford to pay him $14 million. Also, Dunlap just turned 32, so a decline is coming soon.
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Aldon Smith, DE, Cowboys. Age: 31.
Signed with Seahawks
Aldon Smith hadn’t played since 2015, but came back from his long hiatus and performed well. He logged five sacks in 2020.
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Corey Davis, WR, Titans. Age: 26.
Signed with Jets (3 years, $37.5 million)
Corey Davis was seen as a huge bust heading into 2020, but he bounced back with a strong season. It might be difficult to trust him, but there’s no denying his upside.
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Russell Okung, OT, Panthers. Age: 32.
Russell Okung is a talented left tackle who would be in the 3.5- or four-star range if he weren’t so injury-prone. He has played just 13 games in the past two years.
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Jaquiski Tartt, S, 49ers. Age: 29.
Re-signed with 49ers (1 year)
Jaquiski Tartt is a quality, well-rounded safety. He played just seven games in 2020.
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Darqueze Dennard, CB, Falcons. Age: 29.
Signed with Cardinals
Darqueze Dennard is a talented cornerback who can play both outside and in the slot. However, he has a dubious injury history. He missed half of 2020 with a hamstring, and he’s played a full season just once in his career.
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Abry Jones, DT, Jaguars. Age: 29.
Abry Jones was sorely missed this past season when he landed on injured reserve after Week 5 with leg injuries. He’s nearing 30, but he can still play on a high level.
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Leonard Fournette, RB, Buccaneers. Age: 26.
Re-signed with Buccaneers (1 year, $4 million)
Leonard Fournette disappointed with the Buccaneers, but he’s a talented, three-down running back who should rebound in 2021.
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Denzel Perryman, LB, Chargers. Age: 28.
Signed with Panthers (2 years)
Denzel Perryman is a stout, two-down run defender. The Chargers were so much worse against ground attacks when Perryman was sidelined in 2020.
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Duron Harmon, S, Lions. Age: 30.
Signed with Falcons
Patriot players going elsewhere don’t always succeed. Duron Harmon did, performing well in all regards for the Lions.
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Deatrich Wise, DE, Patriots. Age: 27.
Re-signed with Patriots
Deatrich Wise improved last year as a pass rusher. He logged 2.5 sacks, but that’s not indicative of how well he played. Wise should continue to upgrade his game.
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Romeo Okwara, DE, Lions. Age: 26.
Romeo Okwara is a one-trick pony, but he does that trick extremely well. He logged 10 sacks in 2020, a number that would’ve been higher had the Lions maintained more leads. His pass-rushing skills are great, but he struggled as a run defender and as a player in coverage.
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Desmond Trufant, CB, Lions. Age: 30.
Signed with Bears (1 year)
Desmond Trufant was once a talented cornerback, but he was atrocious for the Lions in 2020. He had nagging injuries and played just six games, however, so he was never 100 percent, even when he was on the field. Then again, he turns 31 in September, so things could get worse moving forward.
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DaQuan Jones, DT, Titans. Age: 29.
Signed with Panthers
DaQuan Jones is a solid, jack-of-all-trades defensive lineman who should have a couple more quality years remaining in the pros.
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Kelvin Beachum, OT, Cardinals. Age: 32.
Re-signed with Cardinals (2 years)
Stepping in for an injured Marcus Gilbert, Kelvin Beachum had a solid year for the Cardinals. Beachum has an extensive injury, so he’s a risky signing, especially at his age.
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Xavier Woods, S, Cowboys. Age: 26.
Signed with Vikings (1 year, $2.25 million)
Xavier Woods was a decent starting safety for the Cowboys last year, covering well but struggling with some missed tackles. He’s only 26, so there’s room for improvement.
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Nicholas Morrow, LB, Raiders. Age: 26.
Re-signed with Raiders
Nicholas Morrow played well for the Raiders last year while in coverage. He missed one too many tackles, but he’s only 26, so he’ll continue to improve.
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Kenyan Drake, RB, Cardinals. Age: 27.
Signed with Raiders (2 years, $11 million)
Expectations were high for Kenyan Drake entering 2020, but he was a disappointment. He rushed for 955 yards and 10 touchdowns, but wasn’t involved much in the passing game and averaged for a meek 4.0 YPC.
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Mike Hilton, CB, Steelers. Age: 27.
Signed with Bengals (4 years)
Mike Hilton is a solid slot cornerback who is coming off a down year. He’s young enough to rebound with a better 2021.
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Justin Coleman, CB, Lions. Age: 28.
Signed with Dolphins (1 year, $2.75 million)
Justin Coleman is ordinarily a solid slot cornerback, but he was hurt last year. He missed five games with a hamstring injury, and he wasn’t 100 percent upon his return. He turns 28 in late March, so he’ll be able to rebound in 2021.
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Terrance Marshall, CB, Browns. Age: 29.
Signed with Texans (2 years)
Terrance Marshall was thrust into the starting lineup because of an injury to Greedy Williams. Marshall performed well, tackling particularly well.
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Kevin Johnson, CB, Browns. Age: 29.
Signed with Titans (1 year)
Normally a quality slot cornerback, Kevin Johnson struggled a bit in 2020 because of nagging injuries. He’s likely to bounce back next year.
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Malcolm Butler, CB, Titans. Age: 31.
Signed with Cardinals
Malcolm Butler is a solid cornerback, but he didn’t quite live up to his 5-year contract, so he was cut for financial purposes. He just turned 31, so a decline is coming soon.
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Janoris Jenkins, CB, Saints. Age: 32.
Signed with Titans
Janoris Jenkins did a great job of reviving his career in New Orleans after an ugly finish with the Giants. However, he turns 33 in October, so regression is coming very soon.
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Roy Robertson-Harris, DE/DT, Bears. Age: 28.
Signed with Jaguars (3 years, $24.4 million)
Roy Robertson-Harris was missed last year when he landed on injured reserve. He’s a quality defensive lineman with no weaknesses.
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Jurrell Casey, DT, Broncos. Age: 31.
Jurrell Casey was once one of the top defensive linemen in the NFL. He’s in his 30s now, and he hasn’t been able to stay healthy. There’s still upside with Casey, but the floor is lower than it has been in the past.
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Damien Williams, RB, Chiefs. Age: 29.
Signed with Bears (1 year)
Damien Williams foolishly cost himself a starting NFL job by opting out of the 2020 season. This was an incredibly dumb decision, so it’s not a surprise that the Chiefs cut him. Williams will have to settle for a No. 2 job for a team looking for a back who can catch passes out of the backfield.
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Eric Wilson, LB, Vikings. Age: 26.
Signed with Eagles
Eric Wilson performed somewhat positively as the Vikings’ third linebacker (and then second linebacker when Anthony Barr got hurt.) He missed too many tackles, but covered well. He’s only 26, so he should be able to improve.
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Austin Blythe, C, Rams. Age: 29.
Signed with Chiefs (1 year)
Austin Blythe has done a good job at center for the Rams, particularly when it comes to run blocking. His pass protection must improve a bit.
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Jon Feliciano, G, Bills. Age: 29.
Re-signed with Bills (3 years, $17 million)
The Buffalo running backs missed Jon Feliciano’s fierce run blocking when the guard was sidelined with a pectoral injury the first seven weeks of the season.
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Richie Incognito, G, Raiders. Age: 38.
Re-signed with Raiders
Richie Incognito missed all but two games with an ankle injury. There’s no telling if he’s 100 percent, or how he’ll play at 38, but Incognito was recently a Pro Bowl-caliber lineman in 2019.
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B.J. Goodson, LB, Browns. Age: 28.
B.J. Goodson had a solid year in Cleveland’s lackluster linebacking corps. He was at his best in coverage.
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Quinton Jefferson, DT, Bills. Age: 28.
Signed with Raiders
Quinton Jefferson was one of the biggest surprises for the Seahawks in 2019. He emerged as a potent force in the interior of the trenches, stuffing the run well and generating some pressure on opposing quarterbacks. He was a disappointment in Buffalo, however, resulting in his release. It’s possible that he got fat and happy from his $6.5 million guarantee. He could rebound in 2021.
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James White, RB, Patriots. Age: 29.
Re-signed with Patriots (1 year, $2.5 million)
James White is an excellent receiver out of the backfield. Given his playing style, he should be able to keep playing well into his 30s.
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Cam Newton, QB, Patriots. Age: 32.
Re-signed with Patriots
Cam Newton can still play well when healthy. We saw that last year when he battled the Seahawks and Bills (first meeting) to the very end. However, he still gets injured too easily, so teams can’t count on him remaining healthy.
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Ben Garland, C/G, 49ers. Age: 33.
Ben Garland has played well the past couple of years for the 49ers. He’s capable of starting at both center and guard. However, he’s now 33, so he could begin to decline in the near future.
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Bobby Massie, OT, Bears. Age: 32.
Signed with Broncos (1 year, $4 million)
Bobby Massie is a solid right tackle when healthy, but he’s had trouble staying on the field recently, missing 14 games the past two years. He turns 32 in August, so age is becoming a concern.
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Jacoby Brissett, QB, Colts. Age: 28.
Signed with Dolphins
Jacoby Brissett has some believers, including Bill Parcells. Brissett played well in 2019 until he suffered an injury against Pittsburgh and wasn’t the same upon return.
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Mike Remmers, OT, Chiefs. Age: 32.
Re-signed with Chiefs (1 year)
Mike Remmers filled in well for an injured Mitchell Schwartz this past season, especially in pass protection. His age (32) is a bit of a concern, however.
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Avery Williamson, LB, Steelers. Age: 29.
It’s unclear why Avery Williamson regressed last year. He used to be a solid linebacker, but he struggled in 2020, especially in coverage.
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Dede Westbrook, WR, Jaguars. Age: 27.
Signed with Vikings
Dede Westbrook played just two games in 2020 because of a torn ACL. He has some nice ability, and he’s still relatively young (27), so he could be a nice option in the slot for his next team.
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Nelson Agholor, WR, Raiders. Age: 28.
Signed with Patriots (2 years, $26 million)
Nelson Agholor was a huge bust with Philadelphia. However, he was one of many Eagles who played better once getting away from Doug Pederson. He still had some drop issues, but he made many more big plays with the Raiders.
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Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB, Dolphins. Age: 38.
Signed with Redskins (1 year, $10 million)
Ryan Fitzpatrick won some early games in 2020 and then proceeded to be a great relief pitcher for the struggling Tua Tagovailoa. Fitzpatrick can still win some games, but he’s nearing 40.
NFL Free Agent Tracker:
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