NFL Free Agents 2011: One Radical Suggestion for Every NFL Team

With the end of the NFL lockout seemingly in sight, a new deal is thought to guarantee the largest collection of free agents in the modern period.

Faced with limited time and a multitude of options, NFL teams will scramble to find solutions to their weaknesses in what promises to be the most frenetic talent acquisition market in league history.

Every year free agency throws up a shocking move or two. There always seems to be room for the kind of signing that makes fans blink and scratch their heads in disbelief.

The buyers' frenzy that is sure to follow the conclusion of the lockout could throw up more surprises than usual.

Here is a list comprised of one radical free-agent option for every NFL team.

1. Arizona Cardinals: Sidney Rice, Wide Receiver

On the face of it, adding one of the most explosive and complete young wideouts in the game to a receiving corps already boasting the talents of Larry Fitzgerald and Steve Breaston would be a move certain to excite Cardinals fans.

But this move would raise more than a few sceptical eyebrows for a couple of reasons. With talisman Larry Fitzgerald entering the final year of his contract and with his long-term future not yet guaranteed, the signing of Rice would increase trade speculation concerning Fitzgerald to a fever pitch.

Most importantly, the money it would take to lure Rice to the desert would make it more difficult for Arizona to recruit the starting-calibre quarterback that the team desperately needs.

Assembling a stud collection of receivers without the presence of a quarterback capable of exploiting their talents would certainly be a baffling move.

But a stable of receivers featuring Rice and Fitzgerald would ease the burden on whoever is under center in 2011. Signing Rice would also provide the Cardinals with ample insurance in their contract negotiations with Fitzgerald.

2. Atlanta Falcons: Braylon Edwards, Wide Receiver

After launching a blockbuster trade to land Alabama flanker Julio Jones in April's draft, targeting another top wideout in free agency would certainly be a radical move from the Atlanta Falcons.

The reigning NFC South Champions gave up a lot to get Jones, so a move for the New York Jets' Braylon Edwards, who would expect to start ahead of the rookie, would be a head scratcher.

The Falcons are facing the possibility of losing as many as three starting offensive linemen to free agency. They also need to add more big-play capability to their defense.

Using significant cap resources to tempt Edwards away from the Big Apple would divert resources from the team's more pressing free-agent concerns.

3. Baltimore Ravens: Aubrayo Franklin, Nose Tackle

The Baltimore Ravens are built on the foundation of their strong defense. Their defensive line is already well stocked with the awesome Haloti Ngata joined by dependable veterans Kelly Gregg and Cory Redding, so a move for San Francisco 49ers nose tackle Aubrayo Fanklin would certainly be a radical one.

Franklin is the premier nose tackle in this free agent class. He will therefore command a significant fee and a lucrative contract. As well as quality starters, the Ravens also have promising youngsters Brandon McKinney and Terrence Cody in reserve.

So why would the Ravens make such a hefty investment in Franklin, a player who they let go in the past?

Gregg and Redding aren't getting any younger, and the Ravens' window of opportunity is rapidly closing. The defense is what drives the team, and adding an extra spark to an already fearsome unit could be enough to carry the team to a Super Bowl.

It's hard not to get excited about the idea of Franklin and Ngata teaming up to create havoc.

4. Buffalo Bills: Darren Sproles, Running Back

If the Buffalo Bills targeted an explosive scat back like Sproles in free agency, it probably wouldn't be viewed as a move to convince people that they are finally ready to emerge from the basement of the tough AFC East.

Adding Sproles and his third-down capability and return skills wouldn't say much for the organisation's view of youngster C.J. Spiller. It would also undermine the commitment to get better on defense.

For Sproles, the move would definitely be a strange one. With the underrated Fred Jackson already in place, Sproles would hardly be likely to get the starting berth he desires.

5. Carolina Panthers: Kevin Burnett, Linebacker

The Carolina Panthers desperately need to retool the worst offense in football in 2010 and surround No. 1 overall draft choice Cam Newton with useful weapons.

A free agent splurge for San Diego Chargers inside linebacker Kevin Burnett would be a radical move. Burnett would be able to ask for a lucrative deal, as the Chargers are sure to make some effort to keep him.

The strength of the Panthers is still their defense, and using free agency to add to an area of strength might be considered a radical departure from conventional wisdom.

But by emphasising their defense, the Panthers can the ease the pressure on Newton. With a strong defensive effort, Carolina could afford to simplify their offensive game plan and ease Newton's transition to the pro level.

Burnett could play in the middle or on the weak side of the Panthers' 4-3 front. His presence could allow standout linebacker Jon Beason to move back to his natural mike linebacker position.

6. Chicago Bears: Eric Weddle, Safety

The reputation of the Chicago Bears' hard-hitting, ball-hawking secondary is well established, so it would be a surprise to see the NFC North champions tab a highly touted safety like the San Diego Chargers' Eric Weddle as a free agency priority.

The Bears are well stocked at safety but were shredded by Aaron Rodgers and company in the NFC Championship Game. Adding a player the calibre of Weddle to an already imposing defensive backfield could go a long way to helping the Bears repeat as division champs.

But with more glaring needs along the offensive line, at defensive tackle and at wide receiver, investing heavily in Weddle might not be the quickest way to push a talented but ageing squad to a Super Bowl.

7. Cincinnati Bengals: Marc Bulger, Quarterback

With the front office refusing to trade Carson Palmer and having drafted Andy Dalton, pursuing a free agent quarterback would be a strange-looking move even for the Cincinnati Bengals.

But a move for a veteran like Marc Bulger could actually have some merit. If Palmer follows through on his threat to retire if his trade demands aren't met, then the Bengals will be forced to throw Dalton into the mix maybe before they are ready.

In the event of Palmer leaving one way or the other, a talented and experienced passer like Bulger would be the ideal stopgap starter for Dalton to learn behind.

8. Cleveland Browns: Terrell Owens, Wide Receiver

Any move involving Terrell Owens is considered a radical and daring one. But the idea of the motormouth flanker swapping his Bengals jersey for one worn by state and division rival the Cleveland Browns would be typically controversial.

It's difficult to imagine Owens joining the new straight-laced regime in Cleveland, led by Mike Holmgren, but Owens to Cleveland could be very beneficial to both parties.

He may be well into the winter of his career, but Owens is still a very capable receiver. He was on pace to break 1,000 yards in 2010 before injury derailed his campaign.

Owens is an experienced practitioner of the kind of West Coast passing game new Browns head coach Pat Shurmur plans to implement. Adding Owens to an inexperienced stable of wide receivers could aid the progress of young quarterback Colt McCoy.

Then again, McCoy and his young receivers could just as easily chafe under the ire of a player who has never been shy about criticising teammates.

9. Dallas Cowboys: Jammal Brown, Offensive Tackle

The future of offensive tackle Doug Free remains uncertain, and with rookie Tyron Smith the other likely starter, finding a third credible option could be a smart move by the Dallas Cowboys.

Washington Redskins right tackle Jammal Brown is a good option for Jerry Jones to consider. Brown is a pending free agent who can play either tackle position.

With the Redskins being heavily linked with Denver Broncos right tackle Ryan Harris, Brown could become expendable.

Brown's desire to return to his favoured left tackle spot makes him a good fit for the Cowboys in the event that they lose Free or feel Smith is not ready to start right away.

10. Denver Broncos: Kevin Boss, Tight End

New head coach John Fox has holes to fill on the offensive line and at running back to satisfy the requirements of his new power offense.

But an all-round tight end could be just as important an addition to help the Broncos make their new system work. A move for the New York Giants' Kevin Boss might surprise fans of the AFC West outfit, but it would give the new-look attack a useful weapon.

Boss has excellent hands and is a decent route runner. He would be a helpful safety valve for the still raw Tim Tebow. But his greatest value to Fox's schemes would be his powerful blocking.

Boss would play a key role in knocking open running lanes and helping to establish the Broncos' power-based ground game.

11. Detroit Lions: Stylez G. White, Defensive End

If the Lions were to add another member to their already fearsome-looking defensive line rotation, it would look like greed. But Tampa Bay Buccaneer free agent defensive end Stylez G. White could have some value in the Motor City.

When Tampa Bay selected both Adrian Clayborn and Da'Quan Bowers in April's draft, White immediately tumbled down the pecking order.

The Lions are blessed with plenty of options along the line, but a player like White, who is experienced in a similar defensive system to the one favoured by Jim Schwartz, could certainly contribute.

White would be a surprise signing by a Lions team opting to further emphasise a team strength rather then tend to their suspect secondary.

12. Green Bay Packers: Santonio Holmes, Wide Receiver

The idea of the defending Super Bowl champions supplementing their prolific pass offense with one of the most dangerous receivers in the game is a scary thought for the rest of the league.

But Santonio Holmes leaving the New York Jets for the Packers would be a radical move that could potentially turn into a masterstroke.

Donald Driver is ageing and James Jones and Jordy Nelson have been largely inconsistent. Providing gunslinger Aaron Rodgers with a reliable target like Holmes to join Greg Jennings would help make the Packers firm favourites to secure a fifth Lombardi Trophy.

The move would definitely come as a shock given the Packers' need at running back and their desire to fortify the offensive line.

13. Houston Texans: Kevin Faulk, Running Back

With so many holes on defense and an already explosive offense, adding another weapon for Matt Schaub to utilise would be a radical move for the Houston Texans.

But Kevin Faulk's value as a receiver out of the backfield cannot be underestimated. The Texans have struggled somewhat in this area during recent seasons.

Steve Slaton has become inconsistent and suffered with fumbling issues. Without a credible third-down alternative, star rusher Arian Foster has been forced to shoulder the burden.

Having an option as effective as Faulk to call on would ease the load on Foster and give Schaub a nice outlet against teams who rely on packing the deep zones to nullify Andre Johnson.

14. Indianapolis Colts: Randy Moss, Wide Receiver

It's difficult to imagine a player as controversial as Randy Moss donning the uniform of the squeaky-clean Indianapolis Colts. It would certainly be a radical notion to pair the temperamental Moss with the ultra professional and efficient Peyton Manning.

Moss may be perilously close to alienating the entire league, but his talent for the big play will never be disputed. There has been no deep threat as spectacular and effective as Randy Moss in league history.

Many of the Colts' problems last season stemmed from the lack of a viable alternative to Reggie Wayne once tight end Dallas Clark went down with injury.

Adding Randy Moss to their businesslike offense would be a bold move, but providing Peyton Manning with a vertical threat like Moss could be the single most decisive factor in helping the future Hall of Famer secure that elusive second Super Bowl ring.

15. Jacksonville Jaguars: Zach Miller, Tight End

With a stellar pass rusher surely top of the agenda for the Jaguars heading into the 2011 campaign, a move for Oakland Raiders tight end Zach Miller would surprise many around the league.

Having the brilliant Marcedes Lewis already in place means the Jaguars don't have a clear need for Miller. But the contract status of Lewis is far from certain, and the Jags were forced to impose the franchise tag restriction to ensure he stayed put.

A move for Miller, who has similar contractual issues with the Raiders, would give the Jaguars a hefty bargaining chip when it comes time to try to convince Lewis sign fresh terms.

In the meantime, being able to pose a two-tight-end threat the calibre of Lewis and Miller in 2011 could once again make Jacksonville a dangerous dark horse in the AFC South.

16. Kansas City Chiefs: Mathias Kiwanuka, Defensive End

Mike Vrabel's decision to try his hand in the college coaching ranks has created a hole at outside linebacker on the Kansas City Chiefs' aggressive defense.

The Chiefs have options, but they are largely unproven. They drafted Georgia pressure specialist Justin Houston in the third round, but the rookie needs to prove his commitment and maturity at the pro level. He will likely be given a situational role to begin his career.

A move for a proven veteran like Mathias Kiwanuka might initially raise a few eyebrows, but it would be a smart move with the potential to help the Chiefs remain atop the AFC West.

Kiwanuka has shown the ability to attack offenses from a two-point stance, and provided he fully recovers from his injury problems, he would form an intimidating partnership with the superb Tamba Hali.

17. Miami Dolphins: Joseph Addai, Running Back

The Miami Dolphins have been heavily linked with the pursuit of a top free-agent running back. But securing the signature of Indianapolis Colts foil Joseph Addai would likely be interpreted as a radical departure from the principles of their power offense.

Addai has spent his career in the Colts' pass-happy attack, functioning to serve the best interests of Peyton Manning's play calls. He would not be the obvious choice for the grind it out style of ground game favoured by Tony Sparano's Dolphins.

However, Addai does have the quickness and strength to thrive in an offense that would make him the focal point. Additionally, he could prove invaluable to struggling Miami quarterback Chad Henne.

Addai's excellent pass protection would be crucial in providing Henne with more time and confidence to pick his passes. Henne would also find great use for Addai's first-rate receiving skills, which would provide the Dolphins offense with an element that has been lacking.

18. Minnesota Vikings: DeAngelo Williams, Running Back

It would certainly be dubbed a bizarre move if the Minnesota Vikings chose to add a starting-calibre running back when they already have Adrian Peterson.

But the Vikings do lack a credible alternative to Peterson. Williams would definitely solve that problem. The bruising back is used to playing in a rotation, having split time in Carolina with Jonathan Stewart.

Given Williams' recent injury troubles, another work-share scenario might be the best thing. He would allow the Vikings to keep Peterson fresh for longer periods during the season. This could have a hugely positive impact on Minnesota's chances of returning to the postseason.

Signing Williams would also be good insurance for the Vikings, as they face the prospect of tricky contract negotiations with Peterson whenever their 2011 campaign concludes.

19. New England Patriots: Cullen Jenkins, Defensive Tackle

Many would suggest that the New England Patriots need to concentrate on adding a legitimate edge rusher to bolster their 3-4 front. Opting instead for an extra playmaker on the defensive line would be a radical subversion of the prevailing wisdom.

But a dynamic inside-outside rush threat like Cullen Jenkins could be an ideal fit in Bill Belichick's hybrid fronts. Jenkins would provide the Patriots with their best defensive line pass rush threat since Richard Seymour.

Adding Jenkins to the mix would allow Belichick the flexibility to more regularly switch between odd and even fronts, as well as three- and four-man lines.

The fact that New England already has a healthy line rotation would benefit Jenkins, who has struggled with durability in the last few seasons. There would be less pressure on the talented lineman to be an every-down performer.

20. New Orleans Saints: Cadillac Williams, Running Back

The New Orleans Saints already possess good options in the backfield, but questions remain about the long-term future of Reggie Bush. His hefty contract and diminished playing time mean that Bush could eventually become trade bait.

That would leave the Saints in need of a running back capable of handling third-down responsibilities. Division rivals the Tampa Bay Buccaneers could provide the answer.

Cadillac Williams has become a useful third-down option in recent seasons. He has the receiving skills to fit in well with the Saints offense. Williams is also still a capable enough rush threat to be a valuable deputy to top rookie Mark Ingram.

21. New York Giants: Le'Ron McClain, Fullback

Le'Ron McClain has a desire to test free agency in order to find a team that will allow him to function more as a runner, rather than as a blocking back.

The New York Giants have a need at running back. With Ahmad Bradshaw a pending free agent and Brandon Jacobs seemingly always at odds with coaches, McClain could be a smart choice.

While many would expect the G-Men to target a more established pure tailback in free agency, choosing McClain would have a lot of upside.

The Big Blue offense always seems to function better with a power back to compliment the air attack of Eli Manning. At 6'0" and 260 pounds, McClain has the ideal size and bruising, straight ahead running style to fit the bill.

With McClain on board the Giants could afford to offload one of Bradshaw or Jacobs. McClain's experience at fullback means he is a good blocker who would be good in pass protection. He is also a useful receiver out of the backfield.

22. New York Jets: Nnamdi Asomugha, Cornerback

Just imagine a cornerback tandem of Nnamdi Asomugha and Darrelle Revis. Tom Brady, Chad Henne and Ryan Fitzpatrick would certainly rather not.

If Gang Green were to swoop in for the top-rated cornerback in free agency, the move would send shock waves around the league.

With the Jets facing contract negotiations with many of their top stars, parting with top dollars to snare Oakland Raiders ace Asomugha would be a radical move.

But pairing Asomugha and Revis together would give the Jets a feared pass defense. Rex Ryan would feel safe to dial up as many exotic blitz packages as he could possibly think of, safe in the knowledge that nobody could beat his team deep.

With Revis and Asomugha locking down the outside, Ryan would be able to tweak his coverage schemes to flood the middle and underneath zones.

The Jets have made several attempts in the last two years to put together an offense to match their powerful defense. But by making a fierce unit even stronger, the Jets might finally have enough to win a second Super Bowl.

23. Oakland Raiders: Jason Snelling, Running Back

Could any conceivable free agency move from Al Davis ever really be considered radical? Adding another talented runner to a backfield already populated by Michael Bush and Darren McFadden might be enough to provoke mild surprise.

New Oakland Raiders head man Hue Jackson would have no problem making use of talented Atlanta Falcons rusher Jason Snelling.

Snelling has starter's potential. He is a powerfully built all-rounder who be a multipurpose threat in the Silver and Black offense.

If the Raiders choose to re-sign Bush, adding Snelling would give them a terrific trio of runners. If Bush is allowed to leave, then the presence of Snelling would at least allow the Raiders to retain the kind of dynamic one-two punch that allowed them to have the second-best ground attack in the league in 2010.

24. Philadelphia Eagles: Donovan McNabb, Quarterback

This scenario is dreamed up on the basis that the Redskins fail to trade McNabb and the quarterback's untenable situation in D.C. means he ends up being released outright.

It might be next to impossible to picture McNabb back in Philadelphia, but the idea of the Eagles getting McNabb back one year after they got the Redskins to give up picks for him is certainly a radical one.

The irony is that McNabb would probably be a good fit for the Eagles in the event they trade Kevin Kolb. For an Eagles team in need of a dependable backup, McNabb would be an intriguing option.

His scrambling ability and leadership qualities would make him the ideal substitute for Michael Vick. Still, it would be hard to imagine McNabb agreeing to once again wear Eagle green just for a reserve role.

25. Pittsburgh Steelers: Matt Roth, Outside Linebacker

The Pittsburgh Steelers parting ways with elite sack master James Harrison would be a radical move in anyone's book.

But if the Steelers did decide to view Harrison's latest outburst as appropriate grounds for dismissal, then they could look at a player like Matt Roth to replace him.

On the face of it, bringing in a journeyman player with a mere 20 sacks in seven pro seasons wouldn't appear the best way to replace a premier talent like Harrison.

But Roth is a smart player who has mastered the transition from defensive end to outside linebacker. The 6'4", 275-pounder is just the kind of player who could thrive in Dick LeBeau's famed fire zone schemes.

26. San Diego Chargers: Tommie Harris, Defensive Tackle

Adding an active three-technique tackle like Tommie Harris to their 3-4 front may seem like a radical move by the San Diego Chargers, especially since the Chargers boasted the finest statistical defense in the league in 2010.

But the AFC West contenders have refused to rest on their laurels. Before the lockout, the Chargers moved quickly to secure the services of safety Bob Sanders. In the draft they selected Illinois defensive tackle Corey Liuget.

New defensive coordinator Greg Manusky favours a one-gap-style 3-4 front and likes to include a pass-rushing tackle as part of his under and over shifted fronts. In San Francisco Manusky used Justin Smith in the role.

Liuget is a rookie, and other members of the Chargers' line rotation have become inconsistent. A proven commodity like Harris could be a smart option.

Injuries have blighted Harris in recent seasons, but when healthy he excels at penetrating the line of scrimmage from the outside shoulder of the guard.

27. San Francisco 49ers: Paul Posluszny, Inside Linebacker

The San Francisco 49ers have a need for a potent edge rusher for their 3-4 scheme and appear well stocked at middle linebacker with Patrick Willis and Takeo Spikes.

So it would be a surprise to see them make an attempt to land productive Buffalo Bills inside man Paul Posluszny.

But Spikes is now 34, and his age combined with his history of neck problems make him a risk to survive a full season as a starter. The 49ers also lack marquee depth.

A move for Posluszny could see Spikes assume the top backup role, allowing him to stay fresh and giving the Bay Area club a strong rotation.

New defensive coordinator Vic Fangio would surely relish being able to turn Willis loose knowing the dependable and energetic Posluszny was available to mop up behind.

28. Seattle Seahawks: Bo Scaife, Tight End

The 29-year-old Tennessee Titans tight end would be a useful signing for the Seattle Seahawks. Even though the NFC West champions have question marks concerning the offensive line and wide receiver, the addition of an underrated pass-catching threat like Scaife could offer a major boost for 2011.

The 6'3", 249-pound Scaife is a good blocker and would help aid the Seahawks' average pass protection and anaemic rush offense.

Scaife is also a crafty receiver who is versatile enough to be a factor when split out wide, as well as when positioned on the line of scrimmage. He runs precise routes and works the underneath hook and curl zones very well.

He would form a nice partnership with existing Seahawks tight end John Carlson and greatly aid whoever is under center in 2011.

29. St. Louis Rams: Manny Lawson, Outside Linebacker

After bringing in Josh McDaniels to construct another high-octane passing attack, spending big on a defensive free agent would be considered radical by the St. Louis Rams.

But the NFC West runners-up have a big need for more playmakers at linebacker. The Rams need players who can complement exciting young mike 'backer James Laurinaitis.

San Francisco 49ers 2006 first-round pick Manny Lawson has largely failed to live up to expectations during his five seasons in the league. A move away from San Francisco could help Lawson realise his potential.

Lawson is a good athlete but has struggled to be the kind of pass rush threat required of outside linebackers in a 3-4 defense. In the Rams' 4-3 front Lawson could occupy the strong side. He is strong enough to hold up against the run and is an effective pass defender.

Lawson is a capable blitzer whose power and timing might be better used by Steve Spangnuolo's array of fire zone calls.

30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Barry Cofield, Defensive Tackle

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers often find themselves hamstrung in free agency due to the fact that the Glazer family is distracted by their debt-laden ownership of global soccer giants Manchester United.

But if the Glazers can actually manage to squeeze some money from the coffers for their NFL interest, the Bucs should take advantage.

Tampa Bay may have an abundance of young talent, but adding a proven veteran with Super Bowl-winning experience like Barry Cofield could help them translate their potential into serious title contention.

The Buccaneers appear well stocked at defensive tackle with young studs Gerald McCoy and Brian Price. However, both have been victims to injury, and depth remains questionable. Adding a quality tackle like Cofield would create a helpful rotation.

Having a powerful run stuffer like Cofield playing the shade technique at nose tackle would free McCoy to be the disruptive force the Bucs were hoping for when they selected him third overall in the 2010 draft.

31. Tennessee Titans: Ahmad Bradshaw, Running Back

In his first full season as a starter Ahmad Bradshaw showed his quality by eclipsing 1,200 yards rushing. If the Tennessee Titans were to add him to an offense built around the dazzling talents of Chris Johnson, they would have the most explosive running back combination in the league.

Going after Bradshaw would be a radical approach by the Titans. However, Chris Johnson's current deal expires in a year, and he will demand at least parity with the top players at his position.

Bradshaw would allow the Titans to decide on a realistic limit for their negotiations with Johnson, secure in the knowledge that they have a back capable of taking over.

32. Washington Redskins: Vince Young, Quarterback

Given the Washington Redskins' history with free agency under owner Daniel Snyder, no move would likely be thought of as radical.

Offering a second chance to highly controversial quarterback Vince Young might well be a walk in the park compared to the last free agent they snared from the Tennessee Titans.

Inserting Young as a starter in the nation's capital does have some upside. Young has proven himself to be a winner more often than not as a starter, and the 'Skins have a glaring need at quarterback.

Young could be keen to show the league he can make it good after the troubles that have marred his once promising-looking career.

On the other hand, the Redskins' new regime has made great efforts to emphasise a new culture in Washington. Mike Shanahan and Bruce Allen have placed a premium on an ethic of hard work and accountability.

Young has had many character issues, as well as engaging in plenty of high-profile spats with coaches. After suffering through the sagas of Albert Haynesworth and Donovan McNabb in 2010, the last thing the Redskins need is another disruptive ego certain to raise the ire of Shanahan.

It would be nice to see the Redskins stay low-key and avoid their annual drama.

The limited amount of time available to teams once this year's free agency begins could lead to many radical moves. A year from now, those moves will either look inspired or the franchises who made them will be busy dealing with the consequences.