NFL Free Agency 2013: Teams That Need to Make Big Splash

March Madness is here. No, not the month-long event that involves a basketball. Rather, the NFL’s free-agency lottery is set to begin today.

All 32 teams are vying to land the best talent on the market with hopes of instantly upgrading their rosters for the season to come.

There will be teams opting for a more conservative approach. Still, others will spend freely.

Here are a few teams needing to make a big splash in free agency.

Cleveland Browns

The last time Cleveland celebrated a winning season was in 2007 when the Browns went 10-6. Ever since then, the Browns have floated near the bottom of the league, compiling a mark of 23-57 over the last five seasons.

Have no fear, Cleveland. With new owner Jimmy Haslam and head coach Rob Chudzinski, the Browns have every reason to be one of the most active teams during free agency.

It starts with resources and the Browns have plenty of artillery. Try $47.5 million in cap space.

The Browns could utilize their funds in a number of ways. But there are a few areas they need to quickly upgrade.

The defensive backfield is one area the Browns need help in. Last season, they ranked 19th in the league in passing defense, allowing nearly 215 yards per contest—a problem that must be addressed.

A shutdown cornerback would boost this unit, and there are a number of potential suitors, including Charles Woodson, Aqib Talib, Sean Smith and Derek Cox, just to name a few.

The Browns also need a reliable tight end. Benjamin Watson had just 49 receptions for 501 yards last season. Adding another wouldn’t hurt and would create healthy competition with Watson. 

Atlanta Falcons

The Falcons were just one win shy of reaching the Super Bowl last season and the addition of a game-changer could enable them to finally reach the big game.

It’s been a rather busy offseason thus far for the Falcons. They’ve cut ties with running back Michael Turner, defensive end John Abraham and cornerback Dunta Robinson.

All three moves have freed up considerable cap space for the Falcons to work with. Running back Steven Jackson could give the Falcons what they are desperately looking for on offense.

Green Bay Packers

As long as Aaron Rodgers is under center, Green Bay will always be a contender in the NFC.

However, the Packers have a few areas they need to address, starting with the offensive line.

Last season, Rodgers was sacked a career-high 51 times, compared to being sacked just 36 times in 2011.

The Packers are also in need of a wide receiver. Greg Jennings is a free agent and appears to be looking for greener pastures. Jordy Nelson averaged 13 yards per catch last season. Adding another target for Rodgers to throw to would be highly advantageous for the Packers.

A true running back has been a rarity in Green Bay over the last few years. The Packers averaged just 3.9 yards per carry last season. Jackson would be a good fit, but the Packers might have to compete with other clubs for his services.