2012 NFL Free Agents: Departing Stars Who Will Cripple Contenders

With a few weeks remaining before NFL free agency begins, there is still plenty that can happen in terms of re-signings. For the most part, though, the free-agent pool is pretty much set. While there are many players who will end up remaining with their current teams, there are several high-impact players who seem likely to leave.

It certainly isn't impossible to recover from one star leaving town, but it could adversely affect several teams in a very profound way. Here are three big-name players who will cripple contending teams when they leave them behind in free agency.

WR DeSean Jackson (PHI)

Because of his prima-donna attitude, the Philadelphia Eagles are likely to let explosive wide receiver DeSean Jackson walk during the offseason. While that may be the best move in terms of team chemistry, it could be damaging from a football standpoint. Jackson was widely regarded to have had a down year in 2011, but he still managed 961 receiving yards and four touchdowns.

He was forced to play several games without quarterback Michael Vick and the Eagles as a whole struggled until late in the season. Even in his worst year, Jackson was the type of player who kept opposing defenses honest thanks to his blazing speed. Without Jackson, Philadelphia's offense will lose a very important dimension that could be difficult to replace.

LB Stephen Tulloch (DET)

During the last free-agency period middle linebacker Stephen Tulloch surprised many when he signed a one-year deal with the Detroit Lions. Tulloch certainly didn't disappoint as he anchored the Detroit defense while making 111 tackles and chipping in with three sacks and two interceptions. After his fine 2011 performance Tulloch should be in line for a big, long-term contract.

The Lions would certainly like to bring him back, but I get the impression Tulloch was using the Lions as a springboard toward a big pay day. If Detroit is unable to secure him then its defense will take a major hit. The defense was already exposed in the playoffs against the New Orleans Saints, and without Tulloch both the linebacker corps and the secondary will need overhauls.

WR Vincent Jackson (SD)

The San Diego Chargers and wide receiver Vincent Jackson have had a very contentious relationship over the past couple years with regards to contract negotiations. Now that it seems as though Jackson will hit the open market and won't be franchised, he can remove himself from the situation if he so chooses. While he may have his character concerns, Jackson is a vital part of the Bolts' offense.

Without Jackson, San Diego's receiving corps would suddenly be very thin as Malcom Floyd would be the top guy and Vincent Brown would have to slide into a starting spot. Jackson is a rare athlete who possesses incredible size for the wide receiver position, but can still get down the field and make big plays. The Chargers missed the playoffs with Jackson, so I wouldn't expect them to make it next season if he departs.