NFL Free Agents 2013: Latest Scoop on Key Players as We Enter New League Year

NFL free agency is a whirlwind of chaos that primarily focuses on key players.

Therefore, let's turn our eye in that direction.

Much like every year, the beginning of free agency is expected to draw an incredible amount of attention. This year is no different, but the veterans slated to hit the market always draw specific interest.

And rightfully so, because although one player will never make a team, getting that key athlete can make a significant impact. In short, propelling a certain team into the postseason and potentially making a Super Bowl run.

Ed Reed

According to Adam Schefter of ESPN.com, the San Francisco 49ers are interested in Ed Reed:

On the other hand, Pro Football Talk of NBC Sports reported:

Regardless of where Reed ends up, that team will be getting an immediate playmaker. And as one of the best safeties of his era, the interest in Reed will only grow this offseason.

Despite his age, he also still provides the athleticism and instincts to monitor in Cover 1 and 3. Reed can also still roll down underneath when needed because he remains a sound tackler and possesses the lateral quickness to make plays at the intermediate level.

Cliff Avril

Aaron Wilson of FOX Sports and the Baltimore Sun tweeted earlier on Tuesday of Cliff Avril:

This would be a huge acquisition for Indianapolis, because the Colts desperately need to upgrade the front seven. Avril brings the capable pass rush and his ability to set the edge will also fit nicely against the run.

Considering that the AFC South presents strong running backs in Arian Foster, Maurice Jones-Drew and Chris Johnson, Indy sprucing up defensively is required to win the division.

Wes Welker

First, Patriots' owner Robert Kraft stated, via ESPN.com's Darren Rovell, about Wes Welker:

Secondly, NFL.com's Ian Rapoport tweeted on Tuesday:

This is certainly an interesting twist of contradiction surrounding Welker.

He's the best receiver in pro football in terms of accumulating yards after the catch. New England doesn't have a consistent deep threat, so having Tom Brady target Welker beneath everything allowed the Pats to move efficiently.

As an outlet for disguised blitzes and when the pass protection breaks down, the reliability of Welker is among the elite. And no matter where he plays next season, the guy will produce and inflate that offense's overall production.

Jake Long

Arguably the best offensive tackle in pro football, Jake Long is of interest to at least one team. A second team is possible, but slim.

Per Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times, the Bears are one team:

And according to Jeff McLane the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Eagles are long-shots:

Obviously each team would be a great fit for Long. Chicago has to get Jay Cutler more reliable protection, as he is provided with some dependable receiving targets and backed by a solid ground game.

Philadelphia also desperately needs better quarterback protection, but have more areas to address than Chicago. On the bright side, the Eagles can try for a top offensive lineman in the NFL draft. The position is crowded with top talent holding first-round potential.