The Best NFL Veteran Free Agents Still on the Free-Agent Market

After the initial weeks of free agency, it’s not uncommon for the flurry of signings to slow down until after the draft. Teams want to save money and see what they can bring in via the draft. Veteran free agents want to capitalize on teams that missed their draft targets and earn playing time in 2015.

This period of the offseason is a good time for teams to acquire veteran free agents. Any veteran signed now will not be factored into the compensatory pick process.

There are numerous veterans still available in free agency who could make an impact with good teams. We’ve chosen nine players who can play in specific roles and be difference-makers in 2015. Some players are available due to injury concerns, while others might be waiting until injuries inevitably create demand for their services.

Jermaine Gresham

Michael Conroy/Associated Press

The 26-year old Jermaine Gresham has already been in the league five seasons, but he hasn’t been able to deliver on the promise he showed at Oklahoma. The former first-round pick had back surgery earlier this offseason and is now waiting to fully recover before signing with a team.

For teams that need a secondary receiver at tight end, Gresham is worth signing. He’s not dynamic, but he has averaged almost four receptions and 37 yards a game in his career. Don’t forget, those numbers also came in a loaded offense that spread the ball around.

Obviously his health is going to be the key if he's to find success in 2015, but Gresham should have numerous suitors. He is a good blocker and decent receiver. For most teams, that’s good enough to be the second tight end on the roster.

Dwight Freeney

Nick Wass/Associated Press

That Dwight Freeney is still on the free market in a league that emphasizes pass-rush acumen is somewhat baffling. Yes, Freeney is 35 years old, but he was still effective in a part-time role for the San Diego Chargers in 2014.

According to Pro Football Focus, Freeney created 40 quarterback hurries in just 590 snaps. He’s not as good finishing once creating pressure as he once was a few years ago, but for teams needing that super-substitution on third downs, Freeney could play a role.

The downside of signing Freeney is simply the worry of age. Can he continue to be productive, even in a limited role? Last season suggests he can.

James Jones

Ben Margot/Associated Press

Another surprising veteran release in the last month was former Packers and Raiders wide receiver James Jones. Jones was miscast as the No. 1 receiver for Oakland last season, but he still averaged almost five catches and 42 yards a game.

He isn’t dynamic or explosive, but as a slot receiver, Jones can be effective. He’s 31 years old, meaning he has another two seasons left in the tank. With Oakland now looking to win, this was a release that made little sense.

Teams that need a plug-and-play rotational receiver should be interested in Jones. His professionalism and experience in a variety of roles will help his value in 2015.

Anthony Collins

Jeff Haynes/Associated Press

One year ago, Anthony Collins was a valuable swing tackle leaving the Cincinnati Bengals. He signed a five-year, $30 million contract to be the right tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Things went south quickly, as Collins played poorly and had locker-room issues.

Collins is now available, likely for a bargain price. He must rehabilitate his image, meaning a one-year, prove-it deal should be his demand.

As a reserve player, Collins excelled for the Bengals. That should be his role in 2015. The shortage of quality tackles across the league is alarming, making Collins an even more worthy signing.

Chris Myers

Gene J. Puskar/Associated Press

When the Houston Texans released center Chris Myers, the team ended a successful seven-year partnership. Myers was one of the best zone-blocking centers in the league for years. But now, at 33, Myers is looking to extend his career just a little longer.

Because of scheme dependency, Myers is going to have a shrunken market. He has played more consecutive games played than any other active offensive lineman in the NFL with 153. His durability and reliability are two major selling points.

The most likely outcome for Myers is that he waits for training camp to get started. He might be able to find a team needing a center. Failing that, he could play backup at guard.

Brandon Spikes

Elise Amendola/Associated Press

Seemingly, the demand for two-down linebackers is at an all-time low. Despite being an effective run-stopper throughout his career, linebacker Brandon Spikes still doesn't have a home for 2015. Spikes has thus far spent his career exclusively in the AFC East.

The linebacker position across the league is relatively weak. Being able to add a veteran such as Spikes to play on first and some second downs would be a nice luxury at this point in the offseason.

With 206 career tackles and five forced fumbles, having Spikes as a backup or situational linebacker would be a solid option. The 27-year old should tempt teams that play 4-3 defensive fronts. He can be part of a very good platoon with a coverage backup or starter.

C.J. Mosley

Rick Osentoski/Associated Press

A journeyman defensive tackle throughout his career, C.J. Mosley had a solid stint as a backup in Detroit. He earned a positive grade from Pro Football Focus as a pass-rusher and run-stuffer. He played in 503 snaps, giving him value as a rotational piece.

He had some injury problems in the middle of 2014, but he rebounded well down the stretch. Mosley is 314 pounds, so he’s going to be able to fill holes in a 3-4 or 4-3 front.

In 2015, Mosley can platoon with a solid pass-rusher. He doesn’t get after the quarterback too effectively, forcing only seven hurries in 2014. However, he is consistent and a tough veteran presence.

Da’Quan Bowers

Grant Halverson/Getty Images

At just 25 years old, it is surprising to see Da’Quan Bowers without an NFL home. He hasn’t been as effective as the pre-draft hype had sold, but he showed promise as a defensive tackle on passing downs.

At 275 pounds, Bowers is a rotational nickel-rusher. He doesn’t have the speed or bend to play at defensive end and be effective, which is partially why he has just seven career sacks.

Bowers should have an opportunity to earn more nickel snaps somewhere, though. His value to a 4-3 defense in 300-500 snaps could be significant. Hopefully he will get the chance to show off his skill set inside as a tackle.

Joe Barksdale

Scott Eklund/Associated Press

Former St. Louis Rams’ right tackle Joe Barksdale was surprisingly allowed to hit free agency this offseason. He struggled in pass protection at times in 2014, but the fifth-year professional was a good run-blocker. The same can be said for many of the right tackles in the league.

Barksdale would be a good buy-low candidate for teams with unsettled offensive lines. He’s a power blocker who works best downhill. His ability to immediately step in for teams could help him start right away.

All stats used are from sports-reference.com. All contract info from spotrac.com.

Ian Wharton is an NFL Draft Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report. 

Follow @NFLFilmStudy