NFL Rumors: Analyzing Latest Buzz on DeMarco Murray, Andre Johnson and More

Following Monday's deadline to apply the franchise tag to any impending free agents, NFL rumors of potential departures and acquisitions of big-ticket players began to run rampant across the Web.

This is a critical point of the offseason for every franchise, as losing or gaining a key player can have a significant impact on its future outlook—both immediate and long-term—and potential success. Teams still have until the March 10 deadline to sign veterans to deals before they officially hit the open market, but some players already seem destined to find new homes before next season begins.

Based on the latest rumblings from a variety of sources, let's take a look at a few players who appear poised to be on the move in the near future.

DeMarco Murray

Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray had a breakout campaign in 2014, leading the NFL with 1,845 rushing yards while scoring 13 touchdowns and averaging 4.7 yards per carry. A very capable receiver out of the backfield, Murray added 57 receptions for 416 yards.

On Monday, the Cowboys opted to apply the franchise tag to wide receiver Dez Bryant, limiting Murray's chances of remaining in Dallas. In fact, NFL.com's Chris Wesseling relayed this telling report: "Based on his understanding of Murray's situation, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport cautioned on Monday's edition of NFL Total Access that there's a 'slim chance' Murray will return to Dallas once the free-agent market opens next week."

Though talented, Murray has been prone to injury in the past—2014 marked his first career 16-game season. Signing him to a lucrative long-term deal would be a risky endeavor for a Cowboys team that already has limited financial flexibility.

So, if Murray is likely to walk, where will he go? According to Rapoport, via Wesseling's report, the Indianapolis Colts, Arizona Cardinals, Jacksonville Jaguars and Seattle Seahawks are four potential suitors. Each team is in a different scenario, but they all have a reason to sign Murray.

There are several viable running backs slated to hit the open market, and while none may be as talented as Murray, they also won't come with as high of a price tag.

Andre Johnson

USA TODAY Sports

Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson wasn't supposed to be a free agent this offseason. In fact, Johnson still has two years left on his existing contract and is slated to make a base salary of $10.5 million this season, according to Spotrac.com.

So, why is Johnson the center of rumors? Well, John McClain of the Houston Chronicle explains:

Taking a reduced role didn't sit well with the franchise's most prolific receiver of all time. Johnson is still a very capable weapon, and he proved it last season, accumulating 85 receptions for 936 yards and three touchdowns in 15 games despite an ongoing quarterback carousel.

Here's the next burning question: How likely is it that Johnson will actually leave Houston? According to Rapoport, this isn't just a tiff with the team—the receiver wants out for good:

That said, which team is likely to take on Johnson—and his contract—should the receiver be placed on waivers? Bleacher Report NFL insider Jason Cole suggests there may be several suitors; however, the team to watch here are the Colts:

Of course, Johnson's agent denied the receiver asked for a trade during an interview on SportsRadio 610, via CBSHouston.com; although, that seems to be par for the course these days. Look for this talented pass-catcher to spend his 13th season with a new team.

Brian Orakpo

USA TODAY Sports

Washington Redskins linebacker Brian Orakpo has proved to be a productive pass-rusher over the years. The veteran has spent six seasons in the NFL, and he's accumulated at least 8.5 sacks in four of them. Unfortunately, he's also struggled with injuries, playing just two games in 2012 and seven in 2014.

Orakpo and Washington are attempting to work out a new deal before free agency commences, but according to Dianna Marie Russini of NBC4, talks aren't going well and two potential suitors are already known:

Both the Atlanta Falcons and Jacksonville Jaguars are in dire need of a pass-rusher. The trick for these teams will be contract negotiations, as Orakpo's injury history will likely be a major factor in his new deal. Don't be surprised to see the linebacker on a new team with an incentive-laden contract.