NFL Free Agents 2015: Rumors and Predictions for Top Remaining Offensive Weapons

Following an extremely active start to the NFL's new league year, which included plenty of signings and some notable trades, things have begun to slow down. The remaining free agents are taking a longer look at the market to examine their potential options.

Most of the players still available wouldn't fall into the game-breaker category. That's especially true on the offensive side of the ball. Yet, while the big names may be gone, there are still players capable of providing a boost by filling a void.

With that in mind, let's check out some of the latest rumors making their way around the league regarding some of the best offensive players still on the open market. Also included are predictions for where the players will ultimately land.

Michael Crabtree

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Crabtree is coming off a down season which saw him catch just 68 passes for a shade under 700 yards and four touchdowns. The question is whether it was a lack of effectiveness on his part, or an issue with the entire San Francisco 49ers offense. A new home may help determine the answer.

It was a mostly quiet start to the free-agent period for the wideout. Now things are starting to pick up as other options come off the board. John Keim of ESPN lists the Washington Redskins and San Diego Chargers as interested teams:

Taylor Price of the 49ers' official site passed along comments from Crabtree after last season came to a close. He didn't want to talk about his future, but he did notice the numerous changes likely on the horizon in San Fran: "I guess they say every good thing will come to an end. I guess we're living that."

So a reunion with the 49ers doesn't sound too likely. Although it sounds like San Diego may have the inside track, Washington seems like a better fit. It would give the Redskins a possession target to pair with deep threats DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon.

Prediction: Washington Redskins

Charles Clay

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The Miami Dolphins signed tight end Jordan Cameron early in the free-agent signing period. While that doesn't completely eliminate the chances of Clay—who's under the transition tag, giving the team a chance to match offers—returning, it definitely shouldn't be the team's top priority right now.

One team that's shown consistent interest are the division rival Buffalo Bills. Tim Graham of The Buffalo News reports the Dolphins are getting prepared to move forward after being unable to reach a new contract with the versatile Tulsa product:

While Miami now has Cameron, Buffalo is in desperate need at tight end. It released Scott Chandler, who agreed to sign with the New England Patriots—the AFC East has been busy—and has very little other depth on the roster.

It's reached a point where the Bills either need to sign Clay or use their top draft pick, which is in the second round, to shore up the position. For now, all signs point to Buffalo eventually reaching an agreement with Clay and the Dolphins declining to match.

Prediction: Buffalo Bills

Cecil Shorts III

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Shorts is a talented player. He illustrated that while catching 55 passes for nearly 1,000 yards and seven touchdowns in 2012. The former Mount Union standout is capable of stretching the field and being a solid No. 2 target when healthy.

The last part of that statement—when healthy—is the key, though. He's battled nagging hamstring issues throughout his career which have limited his effectiveness. If he can shake those off and stay on the field, he should be a nice value signing.

Michael Gehlken of U-T San Diego notes the Chargers are casting a pretty wide net while looking to add another receiver, including the aforementioned Crabtree. He states Shorts is another target being considered by the front office:

"

Chargers weighing WR options. Stevie Johnson visited Friday. Have shown interest in Cecil Shorts, per source. Crabtree among other FAs.

— Michael Gehlken (@UTgehlken) March 14, 2015"

Shorts would be a nice option opposite of Keenan Allen after merely average production from Malcom Floyd last season. It's one of those situations where the potential risk and reward is pretty clear. San Diego would just be betting it works out.

Prediction: San Diego Chargers