2013 NFL Free Agency: Ranking the 5 Best Players at Each Position

With a very weak draft class this season, NFL free agency will certainly be a period to watch for as teams attempt to upgrade however possible.

General managers watched this season as free-agent acquisitions like Vincent Jackson exceeded expectations in their new homes, which only makes this next crop of free agents look better.

The following players are sure to be hot names as the offseason rolls on, so keep an eye on the athletes in this slideshow for a better idea of the NFL landscape in 2013.

Quarterback

1. Joe Flacco

Joe Flacco could find himself on the free-agent market should he and the Ravens fail to reach an agreement, which is entirely possible. Flacco, on the season, completed 317-of-531 passes for 3,817 yards, 22 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. While the Ravens would have a whale of a time finding a replacement, don't be surprised if the team moves on from Flacco.

2. Jason Campbell
3. Matt Moore
4. Tarvaris Jackson
5. Bruce Gradkowski

Running Back

1. Reggie Bush

Reggie Bush comes in first on a list of somewhat solid rushers here, only because of the running back's big-play capability. In 2012, Bush rushed for 986 yards and six touchdowns on 227 carries. He's had a good run with the Dolphins and could be somewhat attractive after proving his worth as a feature back in Miami.

2. Steven Jackson
3. Rashard Mendenhall
4. Peyton Hillis
5. Shonn Greene

Wide Receiver/Tight End

1. Wes Welker

The little slot receiver is lethal with the ball in his hands and could be a solid addition to any offense that'll utilize him properly. This last season, Welker grabbed 118 receptions for a staggering 1,354 yards and six touchdowns. He produces at a high level and plays with a chip on his shoulder, certainly worthy of a contract.

2. Dwayne Bowe
3. Greg Jennings
4. Jared Cook
5. Mike Wallace

Offensive Line

1. Jake Long

Jake Long struggled to make the transition to the Dolphins' new run-blocking scheme and could be out in Miami. Jonathan Martin proved his worth as a left tackle down the stretch, and Long could be too expensive for a Dolphins team that is getting younger and cheaper. It's tough to see Long back in Miami.

2. Andre Smith
3. Andy Levitre
4. Ryan Clady
5. Branden Albert

Defensive Line

1. Henry Melton

Henry Melton finally showed out in Chicago this last season, earning himself a Pro Bowl nod and some serious leverage in contract negotiations with the Bears. New general manager Phil Emery is likely very confident in his own abilities and will try to find a replacement before paying through the nose for Melton. The defensive tackle could be a solid player elsewhere.

2. Cliff Avril
3. Randy Starks
4. Isaac Sopoaga
5. Dwight Freeney

Linebacker

1. Anthony Spencer

Any team with a need at outside linebacker should take a long look at Cowboys defender Anthony Spencer, who is set to hit free agency. Spencer is one of the best run-defending linebackers in the game, and he facilitates for his other linebacker mates. This will be a free-agent situation to watch.

2. Daryl Smith
3. Brian Urlacher
4. Shaun Phillips
5. Rey Maualuga

Defensive Back

1. Jairus Byrd

Jairus Byrd has been one of few bright spots on the Bills over the past few seasons, and Buffalo fans better hope he returns to the team. Byrd is a true ballhawk who makes a lot of plays back at free safety. He'd fit right into any scheme and would be a solid player to sign.

2. Dashon Goldson
3. Brent Grimes
4. Kenny Phillips
5. Aqib Talib