2012 NFL Free Agents: Tracking the NFL's Top 100 Free Agents

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Unlike a year ago, NFL free agency will take place at its normal time in March and not in the summer because there's no lockout.

This year's free-agent market is filled with superstars such as Drew Brees and Ray Rice along with potential future stars in Matt Flynn and Stevie Johnson.

With that being said, we're going to be tracking the top 100 free agents this offseason, and whenever there's news about that player's contract situation, we'll have it posted and updated on his respective slide. 

Without further ado, here are the top 100 free agents in the 2012 NFL free-agency period.

1. Drew Brees

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The New Orleans Saints have to re-sign Drew Brees—there is no question about it. He is the face of the franchise and the entire roster is built around him.

Brees is an elite quarterback and it would be an absolute disaster if the Saints let him walk—which the chances of that happening are slim to none. 

Prediction: New Orleans Saints

Status: New Orleans used their franchise tag on Drew Brees. 

2. Ray Rice

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Ray Rice is what keeps the Baltimore Ravens offense flowing. 

Rice is undoubtedly an elite running back in the NFL today, and the Ravens will likely do whatever it takes to re-sign him—even if that means using their franchise tag.

However, if they do use their tag, then I would fully expect the two parties to workout a long-term contract. 

Prediction: Baltimore Ravens

Status: Baltimore Ravens used their franchise tag on Ray Rice. 

3. Carl Nicks

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Carl Nicks is one of the premier offensive guards in the NFL today and deserves to be paid like one.

With guys like Drew Brees, Marques Colston, Robert Macheam and Tracy Porter, the New Orleans Saints may struggle to bring him back but could use their franchise tag on him.

Prediction: New Orleans Saints

Status: signed five-year, $47.5 million deal with Tampa Bay Buccaneers, including $31 million guaranteed

4. Mario Williams

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Mario Williams is one of the NFL's elite pass-rushers, as he's recorded 53 sacks in 82 career games while playing as a 4-3 defensive end as well as a 3-4 outside linebacker.

Williams' versatility is going to be a key factor in the negotiating process as you rarely see guys his size with the ability to play a stand-up defensive end position, such as the 3-4 outside linebacker in Wade Phillips' defense.  

Prediction: Houston Texans

Status: signed six-year, $100 million contract with Buffalo Bills. 

5. Matt Flynn

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Aside from Peyton Manning, Matt Flynn will likely be the most sought-after free-agent quarterback, as he's only 26 years old and appears to be ready to be a franchise quarterback.

There are several teams out there that could use the arm of Flynn—such as the Miami Dolphins, Washington Redskins, Seattle Seahawks and the Cleveland Browns. 

The best fit in my eyes is the Miami Dolphins, as it just makes perfect sense that Flynn would follow his offensive coordinator, Joe Phibin, to South Beach. 

Prediction: Miami Dolphins

Status: Signed by the Seattle Seahawks

6. Vincent Jackson

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I find it hard to believe Vincent Jackson will be a San Diego Charger in 2012, which leads me to believe he'll receive quite the hefty contract via free agency.

When Jackson isn't distracted with his contract situation, he plays like an elite receiver. However, he was rather inconsistent, much like the entire Chargers roster last season, which may harm his value in free agency. 

Prediction: Chicago Bears

Status: signed five-year, $55 million with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 

7. Matt Forte

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Matt Forte wants to get paid, and he deserves it, as he's one of the most dynamic running backs that the NFL has to offer. He's such an elusive runner as well as a great receiver.

Forte and the Bears have been doing with contract issues for about a year now but I fully expect Chicago to do whatever it takes to retain Forte, as he's such an integral part of their offense. 

Prediction: Chicago Bears

Status: Chicago Bears used their franchise tag on Matt Forte. 

8. Marques Colston

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As the New Orleans Saints will do whatever it takes to retain Drew Brees and Carl Nicks, wide receiver Marques Colston may be the odd man out in New Orleans, as he deserves to get paid. 

There's no question that Colston is a top tier wide receiver, but most wont go to the length to label him as an elite player. However, Colston will likely receive elite money this offseason as he's one of the top receivers available. 

Prediction: New Orleans Saints

Status: five-year contract with New Orleans Saints. 

9. Wes Welker

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Forget about his infamous Super Bowl drop against the New York Giants. Wes Welker has led the league in receptions ever since joining the New England Patriots in 2007.

Welker is Tom Brady's go-to-man and the Patriots have to realize that and make sure that they don't let him slip away.

If you take away Welker from New England's offense, then they would suffer tremendously. 

Prediction: New England Patriots

Status: New England Patriots used their franchise tag on Wes Welker. 

10. Cliff Avril

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I firmly believe the Detroit Lions will use their franchise tag on Cliff Avril, as he's one of the elite pass-rushers in the NFL despite being only 25 years old.

As the Lions will likely use their franchise tag on Avril, I would like to believe that they'll continue their contract talks as both parties will search a long-term deal that locks up Avril in a Lions uniform for many years. 

Prediction: Detroit Lions

Status: Detroit Lions used their franchise tag on Cliff Avril. 

11. Jermichael Finley

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Jermichael Finley is one of the top receiving tight ends in the NFL today, and the Green Bay Packers certainly understand that, as they'll bring him back for yet another two years.

Finley will be paid elite money despite being rather inconsistent this past season in Green Bay's remarkable 15-1 regular season. 

Status: two-year, $14 million contract with Green Bay Packers 

12. Carlos Rogers

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Carlos Rogers is the best available cornerback in the 2012 class of free agents. Being 30 years old, Rogers will likely be searching for a long-term deal.

Rogers was a key part in the San Francisco 49ers playoff success last season and it would be idiotic if they decided to let him go. 

He's just that valuable to their secondary as their No. 1 cornerback. 

Prediction: San Francisco 49ers

Status: signed four-year, $29.3 million contract with San Francisco 49ers. 

13. D'Qwell Jackson

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Despite playing for the lowly Cleveland Browns, D'Qwell Jackson is one of the best all-around, playmaking inside linebackers in the NFL today.

If you ask me, I believe that Cleveland is going to go all out to retrain Jackson as he's just one of the few star players on Cleveland's roster and it would be pretty disastrous if they let him walk. 

Prediction: Cleveland Browns

Status: Five-year, $42.5 million contract with Cleveland Browns. 

14. Dwayne Bowe

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Dwayne Bowe is one of the best available wide receivers in the 2012 free-agent class, as he's definitely a top-tier receiver and should receive a nice payday.

Bowe may not be an elite wide receiver but he's one of the best redzone threats in the NFL today. 

No matter who's playing quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, they'll have to do whatever it takes to keep him locked in a KC uniform. 

Prediction: Kansas City Chiefs

Status: Kansas City Chiefs used their franchise tag on Dwayne Bowe. 

15. Brandon Carr

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Brandon Carr may have been overshadowed by playing opposite of Brandon Flowers, but Carr is certainly one of the better corners that the NFL has to offer.

Carr will likely seek money that a No. 1 cornerback would earn which leads me to believe that his days are numbered in Kansas City and he'll likely end up with a team that is not afraid to spend money, and that's the Dallas Cowboys. 

Prediction: Dallas Cowboys

Status: signed five-year, $50.1 million contract with Dallas Cowboys.

16. Jeremy Mincey

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Despite playing for the lowly Jacksonville Jaguars, defensive end Jeremy Mincey had a solid season this past year as he recorded eight sacks.

Being 28 years old, he should receive his fair share of interest this offseason.

Prediction: Carolina Panthers

Status: signed four-year, $27.2 million contract with Jacksonville Jaguars. 

17. Cortland Finnegan

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Cortland Finnegan may be a little bit of a troublemaker, as he loves to get in opposing receivers' heads, which makes him one of the better shutdown cornerbacks in the 2012 free-agent class.

I would like to believe that the Tennessee Titans will workout a long-term deal with Finnegan as he's such a valuable part to their defense and more specifically, their secondary. 

Prediction: Tennessee Titans 

Status: signed five-year, $50 million contract with St. Louis Rams. 

18. Michael Bush

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Michael Bush is a perfect running back to be mixed in with a speedster running back—he's a human bowling ball.

I'm not too sure Bush will remain with the Oakland Raiders, as a team like the Cincinnati Bengals could be a huge player for Bush's services as they'll look to build away from Cedric Benson. 

Prediction: Cincinnati Bengals

Status: 

19. Chris Myers

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Chris Myers has quietly emerged as one of the better centers in the NFL today and should receive his share of interest this offseason.

The Houston Texans offensive line is one of the best that the NFL has to offer and it would be rather ill-advised idea to simply let Myers walk as they could result in some major struggles for the Texans o-line heading in 2012. 

Prediction: Houston Texans

Status: 

20. Stephen Tulloch

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If you ask me, I don't see Stephen Tulloch returning to the Detroit Lions next season, as they'll likely look for a younger option in this year's draft.

Tulloch is a veteran linebacker with a ton of experience under his belt and he ultimately fits best with the Philadelphia Eagles, as they need inside linebackers badly. 

Prediction: Philadelphia Eagles

Status: 

21. Marshawn Lynch

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Marshawn Lynch really had an incredible comeback season this past year with the Seattle Seahawks, as he ran for 1,204 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Lynch will likely be remaining a Seahawk in 2012 as I am fully expecting to see Seattle use their franchise tag on him if there isn't a long-term deal worked out. 

Prediction: Seattle Seahawks

Status: four-year, $32 million contract with Seattle Seahawks 

22. DeSean Jackson

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I have a feeling the Philadelphia Eagles will use their franchise tag on DeSean Jackson and will ultimately trade him—but that's just me.

Rather than just letting Jackson walk in free agency, the Eagles will likely bring him back with the franchise tag and then just hold an auction for his talents. 

Prediction: Philadelphia Eagles

Status: Philadelphia Eagles used their franchise tag on DeSean Jackson, after which, Jackson signed a five-year, $51 million contract with the team.

23. Calais Campbell

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I would expect the Arizona Cardinals to use their franchise tag on Calais Campbell.

Campbell is just such a freak of nature standing at 6'8" and is the ultimate hybrid between a defensive end and an outside linebacker and he should ask for a decent amount of money this offseason. 

Prediction: Arizona Cardinals

Status: Arizona Cardinals used their franchise tag on Calais Campbell. 

24. Laurent Robinson

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Laurent Robinson had a solid comeback season with the Dallas Cowboys in 2011, catching 54 passes for 11 touchdowns, and should be a highly targeted wide receiver this offseason.

Robinson is best suited with the Dallas Cowboys as he played extremely well opposite of Dez Byrant last season and I would like to believe he'll be on his way back to the Cowboys this offseason. 

Prediction: Dallas Cowboys

Status: signed five-year, $32.5 million contract with Jacksonville Jaguars. 

25. Stevie Johnson

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Stevie Johnson is simply too inconsistent to be considered a No. 1 wide receiver but certainly has the talent and potential to be one. 

Johnson is the best that the Bills have right now for receivers and letting him walk and not replacing him would ultimately damage Ryan Fitzpatrick's future with the team tremendously. 

Prediction: Buffalo Bills

Status: five-year, $36.25 million contract with Buffalo Bills

26. Brent Grimes

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Brent Grimes is the Atlanta Falcons' No. 1 cornerback, and I expect he'll be back in Atlanta next season.

There's no way that the Falcons can let Grimes leave via free agency as he's their No. 1 corner and such a valuable part to their secondary. 

Prediction: Atlanta Falcons

Status: Atlanta Falcons used their franchise tag on Brent Grimes. 

27. Reggie Wayne

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Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Reggie Wayne should not be overlooked because he struggled with quarterbacks Dan Orlovsky and Curtis Painter; he's still got enough left in the tank to be a very productive wide receiver.

I think Wayne's days as a Colt are done, much like Peyton Manning, and he'll move onto a playoff contender. 

Prediction: Baltimore Ravens

Status: signed three-year, $17.5 million contract with Indianapolis Colts. 

28. Robert Mathis

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Robert Mathis may have been one of the lone bright spots on the Indianapolis Colts roster last season, as he finished with 9.5 sacks. 

The Colts may be looking to rebuild their defense but you simply can't ignore his ability to rush the passer. 

Prediction: Indianapolis Colts

Status: signed a four-year, $36 million contract with Indianapolis Colts. 

29. Jared Gaither

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Jared Gaither really proved himself a legitimate starting offensive tackle this past season with the San Diego Chargers and should receive a nice payday this offseason.

With San Diego's offensive line being such a mess last season, I think it would be a wise decision to hold onto Gaither as he was one of the lone bright spots from 2011. 

Prediction: San Diego Chargers

Status:  Signed a four-year deal with Chargers.

30. Scott Wells

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Scott Wells was the Green Bay Packers center this past season and really flourished; he should gather quite a few offers this offseason.

Let me ask you this: Why would you want to leave Green Bay? There's no reason why.

Wells will be back in 2012. 

Prediction: Green Bay Packers

Status: 

31. Dashon Goldson

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Dashon Goldson was a key member of the San Francisco 49ers' impressive season from a year ago, and I would assume the 49ers will look to bring him back this offseason.

Goldson was a valuable part in San Francisco's success last season and there's no reason why they'll let him leave via free agency, unless if he's asking for a ton of money. 

Prediction: San Francisco 49ers

Status: San Francisco 49ers used their franchise tag on Dashon Goldson.  

32. Curtis Lofton

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At 25 years old, Curtis Lofton is a young linebacker that still has a ton of production left in the tank. 

Lofton has been a consistent part to the Atlanta Falcons defense and should gather in some interest this offseason as he's such a young player but produces extremely well. 

Prediction: Atlanta Falcons

Status: 

33. Brandon Lloyd

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Brandon Lloyd is an interesting option at wide receiver, as he has such a talent, but at times he disappears—and then there are the times he flourishes.

Lloyd to the New England Patriots just makes perfect sense as he has a solid relationship with the team's offensive coordinator. 

New England needs a true No. 1 wide receiver and Lloyd is the perfect fit. 

Prediction: New England Patriots

Status: 

34. Fred Davis

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Tight end Fred Davis is coming off quite the impressive season, putting up quality numbers while playing with quarterbacks Rex Grossman and John Beck.

I would expect to see the Washington Redskins caught up a ton of money for Davis, as he's one of the better younger tight ends in the NFL today and deserves a solid chunk of change. 

Prediction: Washington Redskins

Status: Washington Redskins used their franchise tag on Fred Davis. 

35. Dan Connor

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Dan Connor filled in rather nicely this past season with the Carolina Panthers as Jon Beason was sidelined for the entire season.

With Beason returning, I find it hard to believe that Connor will be around next season as he'll likely want a starting job—which wont be happening with the Panthers. 

Prediction: Detroit Lions

Status: 

36. Sione Pouha

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Sione Pouha was one of the top nose tackles this past season, but at 33 years old, he'll likely be looking for one last large contract.

The New York Jets need to do whatever it takes to bring back Pouha as he was one of the most dominant nose tackles from last season and he's such a valuable part in Rex Ryan's 3-4 defensive scheme. 

Prediction: New York Jets

Status: three-year, $15 million contract with New York Jets. 

37. Mario Manningham

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Wide receiver Mario Manningham will probably not be back with the New York Giants next season, and he should gain a ton of interest this offseason, as he's only 25 and has a ton of potential.

A team that really needs talent at the wide receiver position is the San Francisco 49ers and I truly believe that he'd flourish in a 49er uniform. 

Prediction: San Francisco 49ers

Status: 

38. Josh Scobee

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Josh Scobee could very well be the NFL's top kicker entering 2012, and he wants to be paid like it. 

When you look at kickers, they don't usually move around too much and with the Jacksonville Jaguars lacking star-power, I'd expect to see them offer Scobee a pretty satisfying contract. 

Prediction: Jacksonville Jaguars

Status: Jacksonville Jagaurs used their franchise tag on Josh Scobee. 

39. London Fletcher

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Despite being 36 years old, London Fletcher is one of the best linebackers in the NFL as he's such a tackling machine.

Fletcher's best destination is with the Washington Redskins as I could see the team coughing up a nice chunk of change for the 36-year-old. 

Prediction: Washington Redskins

Status: 

40. Ben Grubbs

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Ben Grubbs is one of the better offensive guards in the NFL entering 2012 and should gain a ton of interest during free agency, as he's only 27 years old. 

The Baltimore Ravens may not have the greatest offensive line, but Grubbs is one of the bright spots and I'd expect to see him sporting a Ravens uniform in 2012. 

Prediction: Baltimore Ravens

Status: 

41. Tyvon Branch

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Tyvon Branch, at just 25 years old, is an extremely versatile defensive back that can play strong safety as well as free.

Branch should receive a ton of interest this offseason due to his versatility but I highly doubt that the Oakland Raiders will let him leave town. 

He's too much of a valuable part to their defense. 

Prediction: Oakland Raiders

Status: Oakland Raiders used their franchise tag on Tyvon Branch. 

42. Erin Henderson

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Twenty-five-year-old Erin Henderson is one of the up-and-coming linebackers the NFL has to offer and should be looking for a nice long-term contract.

The Minnesota Vikings have some nice, younger parts on their defense and Henderson is one of them. So why would they want to let him go? 

Prediction: Minnesota Vikings

Status: 

43. Jarret Johnson

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Jarret Johnson isn't the most talented guy, but he plays with a high motor, which makes him one of the better linebackers entering 2012. 

As the Baltimore Ravens have so many free agents to deal with, Johnson may be one of the odd men out but could land with the Indianapolis Colts as they look to rebuild their defense. 

Prediction: Indianapolis Colts

Status: signed four-year contract with San Diego Chargers. 

44. Jason Jones

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I would expect Jason Jones to return to the Tennessee Titans in 2012, as they do have some cap space to pay the 25-year-old defensive lineman.

As Jones is such a young player, I would like to believe that Tennessee will be bring him back in 2012 as he could be a cornerstone in their defense moving forward. 

Prediction: Tennessee Titans

Status: 

45. Matt Prater

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Denver Broncos kicker Matt Prater certainly deserves a long-term contract, as he's one of the top kickers in the NFL today, and he's only 27 years old.

Tim Tebow may be clutch, but Prater is just as clutch.

The Broncos will likely hand over a nice contract this offseason. 

Prediction: Denver Broncos

Status: Denver Broncos used their franchise tag on Matt Prater. 

46. David Hawthorne

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Linebacker David Hawthorne will likely look to grab a long-term contract with a ton of money, as he's only 26 years old, but the Seattle Seahawks have to deal with Marshawn Lynch, which could lead to Hawthorne moving on from Seattle.

However, Hawthorne has been a pretty productive piece in Seattle's defense so I do see them finding a way to hold onto him this offseason. 

Prediction: Seattle Seahawks

Status: 

47. Cory Redding

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Defensive lineman Cory Redding is just one of the many free agents the Baltimore Ravens will have to address this offseason, and at 31 years old he could be on his way out the door.

As I've stated before, the Ravens have a ton of free agents to deal with and Redding is one of the guys that could be the odd man out. 

Prediction: Indianapolis Colts

Status:  Signed a three-year, $10.5 million deal with the Colts.

48. Michael Griffin

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Michael Griffin will likely be looking for a long-term contract with a ton of cash, as he's recorded 389 career tackles and 17 interceptions through 80 games. 

The Tennessee Titans have something good going for them on the defensive side of the ball, so bringing back a young piece like Griffin would be a wise decision. 

Prediction: Tennessee Titans

Status: Tennessee Titans used their franchise tag on Michael Griffin. 

49. Kendall Langford

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Kendall Langford's inconsistency over the years will likely ruin his shot at a nice long-term deal despite being so talented.

As he's such a talented player, the Miami Dolphins could still see potential in his game as I believe he'll be back for another run around in South Beach. 

Prediction: Miami Dolphins

Status: 

50. Steve Weatherford

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Steve Weatherford is one of the top-tier punters in the NFL, and I fully expect him to return to the New York Giants in 2012.

If you're a Super Bowl champion punter, why would you want to leave? 

The Giants will have him the money that he deserves. 

Prediction: New York Giants

Status: New York Giants used their franchise tag on Steve Weatherford. 

51. Brodrick Bunkley

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Brodrick Bunkley is a quality option for a defensive tackle, as he recorded 43 tackles in 16 games last season with the Denver Broncos.

The Denver Broncos have some nice pieces on the defensive side of the ball and Bunkley is a player that I see John Fox bringing back in 2012. 

Prediction: Denver Broncos

Status: 

52. Evan Mathis

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Evan Mathis played pretty well with the Philadelphia Eagles last season at offensive guard and could gather some interest this offseason.

The Eagles may have holes on their offensive line, but Mathis was one of the few consistent linemen that they had a year ago and should be back for the future. 

Prediction: Philadelphia Eagles 

Status: 

53. Richard Marshall

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Richard Marshall was a serviceable cornerback for the Arizona Cardinals this past season, defending 11 passes and recording three interceptions.

Believe it or not but the Cardinals have a young defense with a ton of potential and Marshall is one of their pieces to their puzzle. 

Prediction: Arizona Cardinals

Status: 

54. Red Bryant

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Red Bryant was a solid option at defensive end in 2011 for the Seattle Seahawks, as he tallied 32 tackles and one sack, and he should return to Seattle next season.

Somehow, some way I see the Seahawks bringing back Bryant next season—despite having so many free agent players to deal with. 

Prediction: Seattle Seahawks

Status:  Re-signed with Seattle for 5 years, $35 million.

55. Leroy Hill

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Leroy Hill is one of many free agents the Seattle Seahawks have this offseason, and the linebacker, who recorded 89 tackles in 2011, should receive some interest.

With Hill receiving some interest, I don't think that Seattle will let him walk as he's such a valuable part to their defensive system. 

Prediction: Seattle Seahawks

Status: 

56. Demetrius Bell

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At 27 years old, Demetrius Bell offers a solid option at left tackle for teams in search of one this offseason.

There's no reason why the Buffalo Bills should let Bell leave via free agency and I would expect to see him returning with a long-term contract this offseason. 

Prediction: Buffalo Bills

Status: 

57. Connor Barth

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Connor Barth is one of the top young kickers in the NFL today. He's just 25 years old and should remain with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers next season.

When you have a solid kicker that's reliable, you simply have to keep him under contract and that's what the Bucs will do. 

Prediction: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Status: Tampa Bay Buccaneers used their franchise tag on Connor Barth. 

58. Ahmad Brooks

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Ahmad Brooks recorded a solid seven sacks this past season with the San Francisco 49ers and will look to cash in big time via free agency.

With the 49ers having such an elite defense, why would you want to fix something that's not broken? Brooks was a key part to their defense last season and should be back in 2012. 

Prediction: San Francisco 49ers 

Status: signed six-year, $37 million contract with San Francisco 49ers. 

59. Deion Branch

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Deion Branch may be entering the end of his career but he will always be a New England Patriot.

Branch is Tom Brady's go-to-man and he will likely be brought back as wide receiver coming off of the bench or even as the team's No. 1 like he was this past season. 

Prediction: New England Patriots

Status: 

60. Barrett Ruud

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Barrett Ruud may have played in only nine games last season with the Tennessee Titans, but he did compile 57 tackles and one interception.

Ruud played pretty well in this first season with the Titans and should be back in 2012 as he does have some key attributes that he can offer to their young defense. 

Prediction: Tennessee Titans 

Status: 

61. Alex Smith

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Is there any real doubt that Alex Smith will be the San Francisco 49ers quarterback in 2012? I think not. 

Smith had incredible success last season with the 49ers as he led them all the way to the NFC Championship.

Let's put it this way: The 49ers are Super Bowl contenders with Smith at quarterback. 

Prediction: San Francisco 49ers

Status: 

62. John Abraham

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At 33 years old, John Abraham is the leader of the Atlanta Falcons defense and will likely be looking for one last big payday this offseason.

The Falcons simply couldn't afford to lose their leader and their biggest playmaker on the defensive side of the ball. 

Prediction: Atlanta Falcons

Status: 

63. Dan Koppen

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Dan Koppen was once of the best centers in the NFL, but after missing all of 2011 while the New England Patriots made it to the Super Bowl, it proves he's expendable.

Koppen may be aging but he's still a reliable option at center for the Patriots. 

Prediction: New England Patriots

Status: 

64. Jameel McClain

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Jameel McClain is just another free agent that the Baltimore Ravens have to make a decision about. In 2011, McClain recorded 84 tackles in 16 games.

The Ravens don't have much time left with Ed Reed and Ray Lewis, it's time to win and they'll start by bringing back McClain. 

Prediction: Baltimore Ravens

Status: 

65. Pierre Garcon

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Without Peyton Manning, Pierre Garcon still managed to be productive in 2011, catching 70 passes for 947 yards and six touchdowns. 

Garcon was arguably the lone bright spot to the Indianapolis Colts season last year and he should emerge as the team's No. 1 receiver in 2012. 

Prediction: Indianapolis Colts

Status: agreed to contract with Washington Redskins. 

66. Peyton Hillis

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Peyton Hillis really killed his stock this past season after he dealt with so many injuries, and I doubt he'll receive too much interest this offseason.

Hillis may not be franchise tagged by the Cleveland Browns, but I do see him returning in 2012. 

The market simply isn't that great for Hillis at this point of time. 

Prediction: Cleveland Browns

Status: signed one-year, $3 million contract with Kansas City Chiefs. 

67. Neil Rackers

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Neil Rackers is still a reliable option at kicker, as he drilled 32 of his 38 kicks this past season with the Houston Texans. 

Like I said before, kickers don't tend to swap teams and I see Rackers staying put in 2012 with the Texans. 

Prediction: Houston Texans

Status: 

68. Jerome Simpson

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Jerome Simpson is likely ready to make the jump to a No. 2 wide receiver position in 2012—no pun intended.

Simpson would be one of the Cincinnati Bengals backup wide receivers  next season, but he's too talented for that kind of role. I'd expect to see him moving on in 2012. 

Prediction: Minnesota Vikings

Status: 

69. Tracy Porter

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Tracy Porter is one of the top playmaking cornerbacks in the NFL today, as he's recorded seven interceptions in 43 career games with the New Orleans Saints. 

The New Orleans Saints have a ton of players to address in free agency but I do see Porter returning in 2012. He's one of their better defensive backs and could be brought back at a decent price. 

Prediction: New Orleans Saints

Status: 

70. Paul Soliai

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Paul Soliai is a quality option for a team that needs a nose tackle, as he tallied 27 tackles in 2011 with the Miami Dolphins. 

The Miami Dolphins don't have any other true options at nose tackle heading into 2012 which leads me to believe that Soliai will be staying put with the Dolphins. 

Prediction: Miami Dolphins

Status: signed two-year, $18 million contract with Miami Dolphins. 

71. Nick Hardwick

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Nick Hardwick is a reliable option at offensive guard, and I would expect the San Diego Chargers to look to retain the 30-year-old this offseason.

The San Diego Chargers offensive line was a complete mess last season but Hardwick was a consistent player on their line and should be back in 2012. 

Prediction: San Diego Chargers

Status: 

72. Mike Tolbert

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I would expect to see Mike Tolbert look for a full-time job, as he's certainly talented enough to be a team's No. 1 running back.

However, Tolbert is in a very nice situation in San Diego as he's paired with Ryan Mathews. It'd be Tolbert's best interest to stay with the Chargers. 

Prediction: San Diego Chargers

Status: 

73. Terrell Thomas

Nick Laham/Getty Images

After missing all of 2011, I would believe Terrell Thomas' best option is to remain with the Super Bowl champion New York Giants. 

If you're Thomas, wouldn't you want to return to the reigning Super Bowl champions? I think so.

It'd be in Thomas' best interest to just stay put and prove himself in 2012. 

Prediction: New York Giants

Status:  Re-signed with Giants for four years, $28 million.

74. Mike Brisiel

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Mike Brisiel is a nice attribute of the Houston Texans offensive line and should look to stay with the team this offseason.

The Houston Texans have one of the top offensive lines in all of the NFL and should be staying with the Texans in 2012.

Houston is a run-oriented offense and they couldn't afford to let Brisiel leave. 

Prediction: Houston Texans

Status:  

75. Corey Graham

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

Corey Graham is an interesting prospect who's still young and has some potential, but I believe he'll likely be back with the Chicago Bears next season, as he made the Pro Bowl as the NFC's special teamer. 

Considering that Graham made the Pro Bowl this past season, the Bears should be willing to offer him a decent contract this offseason. 

Prediction: Chicago Bears

Status: 

76. Manny Lawson

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Manny Lawson isn't living up to his potential but was still productive last season with the Cincinnati Bengals in recording 52 tackles.

Lawson has so much talent but has yet to prove himself on a consistent basis. His best option would be staying in Cinci and proving to the NFL that he can be a dominant defensive force. 

Prediction: Cincinnati Bengals

Status: 

77. Robert Meachem

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Robert Meachem is one of the many free agents the New Orleans Saints have heading into the offseason, and he could very well be on his way out.

There aren't too many years left with Tom Brady and I believe that the New England Patriots understand that and will do whatever it takes to surround him with weapons heading into the twilight of his career. 

Prediction: New England Patriots

Status:  Signed with San Diego Chargers for four years, $25.9 million.

78. William Gay

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William Gay played pretty well for the Pittsburgh Steelers this past season, recording 61 tackles and picking off two passes.

The Pittsburgh Steelers defense may be aging but I do see Gay being a valuable part in their secondary heading in 2012. He will likely be staying put with the Steelers. 

Prediction: Pittsburgh Steelers

Status: 

79. Kevin Smith

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

Kevin Smith proved he can still be an NFL running back this past season and should be a nice asset to a team that looks to have a running back tandem. 

Smith doesn't really have that great of a market this season but I would expect to see him stay put in Detroit and prove to the league that he can be a reliable running back. 

Prediction: Detroit Lions

Status: 

80. BenJarvus Green-Ellis

Al Bello/Getty Images

BenJarvus Green-Ellis isn't the greatest running back—he's not flashy, but he gets the job done.

The New England Patriots may have Stevan Ridley, Danny Woodhead and Shane Vereen but Green-Ellis is one of the NFL's top goal-line running backs and I believe he'll be used in that role with the Patriots for many years to come. 

Prediction: New England Patriots

Status: 

81. Kyle Orton

Doug Pensinger/Getty Images

If there's any team out there looking for a quarterback that will add some competition to its training camp, Kyle Orton is the guy. 

With so many questions regarding Matt Cassel, the Kansas City Chiefs should bring back Orton for 2012 and try him out in a quarterback competition. 

Prediction: Kansas City Chiefs

Status: signed three-year contract with Dallas Cowboys. 

82. William Middleton

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William Middleton played fairly well for the Jacksonville Jaguars last season and should be an attractive option for a team that needs help at cornerback.

As the Jacksonville Jaguars lack any true star-power on the defensive side of the ball, I'd be willing to bet that they'll offer Middleton a nice chunk of change this offseason. 

Prediction: Jacksonville Jaguars

Status: 

83. Jason Campbell

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Due to injury, Jason Campbell failed as the Oakland Raiders' quarterback this past season and was replaced by Carson Palmer; some teams should show interest in Campbell.

Campbell's days in the NFL may be numbered and this is likely his last shot to prove that he can be a legitimate starting quarterback and not just a quality backup. 

Prediction: Seattle Seahawks

Status: signed one-year contract with Chicago Bears. 

84. Jeremy Zuttah

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At 25 years old, Jeremy Zuttah is a solid option for a team that needs help offensive guard this offseason.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are a young team and Zuttah is one of their younger pieces that they should build around heading into 2012. 

Prediction: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Status: 

85. Mike Nugent

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Mike Nugent should be back with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2012, as he had a solid 2011 season, making 33 of his 38 field-goal attempts.

Kicker isn't a huge problem with the Cincinnati Bengals as long as they bring back Nugent as he was such a reliable option in 2011. 

Prediction: Cincinnati Bengals

Status: Cincinnati Bengals used their franchise tag on Mike Nugent. 

86. LaRon Landry

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LaRon Landry has played in just 17 games the past two seasons but is still an incredible talent that can be a difference-maker on a team that needs help in the secondary.

The New York Jets badly need help in the back end of their defense and Landry is a guy with a ton of talent that could be a low-cost, high-reward kind of free agent signing. 

Prediction: New York Jets

Status: 

87. Andre Carter

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Andre Carter had a stellar season with the New England Patriots in 2011, as he racked up 10 sacks in just 14 games. 

Carter proved that he can be an elite pass rusher this past season and that's something that the Patriots have lacked over the years. 

Carter should be back with the Pats in 2012. 

Prediction: New England Patriots

Status: 

88. Antonio Garay

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Antonio Garay has been a productive piece over the years in the San Diego Chargers defense, compiling 2.5 sacks and 57 tackles in 16 games last season.

Garay may be an aging piece in San Diego's defense, but he's still valuable and offers a ton of production on their defensive line. 

Prediction: San Diego Chargers

Status: 

89. Anthony Spencer

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Anthony Spencer did really well in Rob Ryan's defensive system last season with the Dallas Cowboys, recording 66 tackles and six sacks. I expect him to return to Dallas in 2012.

If you ask me, Spencer really clicked in Ryan's defense last season and it'd be in his best interest to stay put with the Dallas Cowboys. 

Prediction: Dallas Cowboys

Status: Dalla Cowboys used their franchise tag on Anthony Spencer. 

90. Ronde Barber

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If Ronde Barber plays in 2012, there's no reason why he won't be a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

There's a solid chance that Barber will retire this offseason but if he does play, there's no debate it will be with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 

Prediction: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Status: 

91. Mark Anderson

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Mark Anderson played very well with the New England Patriots in 2011 as he tallied 10 sacks, and I would like to believe he'll return as a situational pass-rusher in 2012. 

Anderson and Andre Carter gave the Patriots a solid pass rush this past season as they compiled 20 sacks. 

If something's not broke, why try and fix it? 

Prediction: New England Patriots

Status: 

92. Rashean Mathis

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At 31 years old, Rashean Mathis is still a reliable cornerback and is best suited to stay with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Mathis' best option of getting paid is staying with the Jacksonville Jaguars, as they're a team that doesn't have too much talent but will overpay to acquire some. 

Prediction: Jacksonville Jaguars

Status: one year, $1.95 million contract with Jacksonville Jaguars. 

93. Rocky McIntosh

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Rocky McIntosh's stats weren't very impressive last season with the Washington Redskins—he recorded just 65 tackles—which makes me believe he won't be around next season.

McIntosh will likely stay put in the NFC East and my feeling is that the Philadelphia Eagles could snag him up as they desperately need help at inside linebacker. 

Prediction: Philadelphia Eagles

Status: 

94. John Carlson

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John Carlson played very well with the Seattle Seahawks in 2010, catching 31 passes for 318 yards, and though he missed all of last season due to injury, I expect to see him back as a Seahawk in 2012.

Carlson is a great blocker as well as a solid receiver—so why should the Seattle Seahawks want to let him go? There's no good reason. 

Prediction: Seattle Seahawks

Status:  Signed a five-year, $25 million deal with the Minnesota Vikings.

95. Kareem McKenzie

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

I really don't see the New York Giants bringing back Kareem McKenzie next season, as he struggled multiple times at offensive tackle and was arguably the team's weakest link.

I honestly believe that the Giants will look to not only replace McKenzie but ultimately upgrade their entire offensive line as they'll do whatever it takes to protect their elite quarterback in Eli Manning. 

Prediction: Chicago Bears

Status: 

96. Chad Henne

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There is no chance the Miami Dolphins bring back Chad Henne in 2012, but I do see him landing somewhere else to compete for a starting job.

Henne may not be a quality starting quarterback but he'd be a nice option for a backup position. 

A team like the Kansas City Chiefs could have some interest in him as they're rather unsure at the quarterback position heading into the future. 

Prediction: Kansas City Chiefs

Status: signed two-year contract with Jacksonville Jaguars. 

97. Jason Allen

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Jason Allen is definitely a talented cornerback that could offer some production as a rotational player in a team's secondary.

The Texans had one of the elite defenses a year ago, so why would they want to ruin that? Allen is a quality player that they can throw into the defensive mix and will produce at a consistent basis. 

Prediction: Houston Texans

Status: 

98. Phil Dawson

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Phil Dawson is one of the better kickers in the NFL today, as he's made 83.1 percent of his career field-goal attempts and has been a solid player for the Cleveland Browns over the years.

Some may believe that Dawson is on his way out of Cleveland, but I see him staying put.

I believe that the Browns will offer him a hefty contract. 

Prediction: Cleveland Browns

Status: Cleveland Browns used their franchise tag on Phil Dawson. 

99. Donald Jones

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The potential and talent is there for wide receiver Donald Jones, but he has simply yet to produce on the field.

With the Buffalo Bills so thin at the wide receiver position, they simply could not afford to let Jones walk as he's filled with talent but still needs time to develop. 

Prediction: Buffalo Bills

Status: 

100. Thomas DeCoud

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Thomas DeCoud has been a serviceable free safety for the Atlanta Falcons over the years, and I am expecting to see the Falcons offer him an extension this offseason.

DeCoud may not be flashy or anything spectacular, but he gets the job done—and that's why he'll likely remain with the Falcons in 2012. 

Prediction: Atlanta Falcons

Status: