2012 NFL Free Agents: DeSean Jackson and Head Cases Not Worth the Risk

Gone are the days players could get by simply because they have a lot of talent. Stars that have a tendency to be head cases are often being passed over by NFL teams because they aren't worth the headaches with having them on the roster.

Here are three players who will have a tougher time on the open market than their past numbers would indicate. 

DeSean Jackson

Jackson had a drop off in production this season—failing to reach 1,000 yards for the first time in three seasons. It's not a coincidence it happened in the same season that he felt his contract wasn't paying him fair market value.

The dynamic Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver spent a lot of time sulking and, although he was certainly underpaid, he should have been even more motivated to put up big numbers to ensure a monster contract this offseason.

For whatever reason, that wasn't the case.

Now he'll enter free agency with questions about his attitude and lack of production last season, which will cause a lot of teams to shy away despite his obvious talent.

Peyton Hillis

After being one of the breakout stars two years ago, Hillis had a season to forget in 2011. His per-carry average dropped nearly a full yard, and he found the end zone just three times in 10 games while battling injuries.

Like Jackson, he wasn't happy with his contract.

There seemed to be a lack of interest from Hillis to fight through injuries even though the Cleveland Browns offense struggled mightily without him. And he's not going to do his new team any good if he's not on the field.

Hillis chalked up his awful campaign to the “Madden Curse.” Teams won't be quick to accept that argument—especially with the value of running backs on the decline.

Stevie Johnson

Unlike the previous two players on the list, Johnson's production remained pretty much constant in his contract year. It's his childish behavior on the field that has the Buffalo Bills questioning whether or not to bring him back.

Johnson has become know for his elaborate touchdown celebrations that are obviously thought out in advance. He was benched in the team's final game for his post-TD antics. The Bills are desperate for a playmaker like him on offense, so if they don't attempt to re-sign him it will be a bad sign.

In today's NFL—when officials are watching every act closely and aren't afraid to throw unsportsmanlike flags—Johnson needs to cool his jets after scoring to ensure he doesn't continue to be a distraction.