2012 NFL Free Agents: Overlooked Defensive Players to Keep an Eye on

In an offensive-oriented league, it's not surprising to see defensive players get overlooked in free agency. Even some of the featured defensive studs are going a bit under the radar.

That being said, here are three overlooked defensive players to keep an eye on this offseason.

Clark Haggans, LB

One reason why Clark Haggans is being overlooked is because he's 35 years old. An 11-year veteran who has played in two Super Bowls, Haggans is one of the more experienced linebackers in free agency.

He has been one of the Arizona Cardinals' better defensive players the past few seasons, so it would be surprising to see him get let go. These days, he's more effective as an edge-blitzer than a run-stopper.

Therefore, you don't see Haggans recording many tackles. Considering that he's clearly on the back end of his career, Haggans would be more effective as a pass-rusher in specific situations.

Provided there is some decent talent around him in a front seven, Haggans can beat most one-on-one blocking situations and at the least, force the quarterback out of the pocket.

Aaron Ross, CB

In his first full season in the New York Giants secondary, cornerback Aaron Ross amassed 60 tackles, four picks and defended 12 total passes, all of which were career highs.

Earlier in his career, Ross was more of a nickel/dime back. But he did see solid time at corner and had great numbers in 2007 (rookie year) and 2008 (combined for six picks and 94 tackles). This season, though, was clearly his breakout performance. So the Giants need to make re-signing him a priority.

Ross has good size at 6'0'', 190 pounds, for a corner and better than advertised instincts and awareness. If given the opportunity to be a No. 1 corner elsewhere, it wouldn't be surprising to see Ross leave New York.

He's also relatively young (turning 30 in September), so at the least he should have a good four years remaining, or possibly six or seven, provided he stays healthy.

Tommie Harris, DT

Still a young veteran who will be 29 before the 2012 season, Tommie Harris has made himself into a reliable run-stuffing and interior pass-rusher.

What's more impressive is that Harris has the size and quickness to play as a 4-3 defensive tackle or 3-4 defensive end.

Playing with the Chicago Bears from 2004-2010, Harris averaged 30 tackles, more than  four sacks and one forced fumble before suiting up in San Diego last season.

Next season, though, anyone needing a sound 4-3 defensive tackle needs to consider Harris. His strength is controlling gaps, beating one-on-one blocks and applying inside pressure. He'll be especially useful in short yardage and goal-line situations.

John Rozum on Twitter.