NFL Free Agency 2016: Rumors and Predicted Landing Spots for Top Targets

The 2016 NFL free-agency period begins on Monday when teams are allowed to begin negotiations with players. However, teams are not allowed to officially ink players to new contracts until next Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET. 

So with the start of free agency less than a week away, let's take a look at some of the top players on the market and project where they could land. 

Matt Forte

Running back Matt Forte had a stellar career with the Chicago Bears, but he'll have to head elsewhere next week in search of a Super Bowl ring. 

Ben Volin of the Boston Globe reported on Feb. 27 that the New England Patriots were "investigating" Forte. 

Since New England head coach Bill Belichick tends to favor the running back-by-committee approach, Forte's age may matter less to the Patriots than other teams. And for that reason, the 30-year-old may also view New England as a place where he could potentially extend his career while also chasing a championship. 

Other potential contenders such as the Arizona Cardinals and Dallas Cowboys could also emerge as suitors for Forte. 

Prediction: Patriots

Alex Mack

David Richard/Associated Press

According to FoxSports.com's Mike Garafolo, center Alex Mack opted to void the final three years of his contract with the Cleveland Browns to pursue other options in free agency:

When Mack was a restricted free agent in 2014, he signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars before the Browns matched the offer.

The Jaguars will likely be a front-runner for Mack again, as they have an opening at center and plenty of money to toss around in free agency.

According to Spotrac, Jacksonville leads the NFL in cap space with just under $75 million in available funds.

If the 30-year old Mack wants to chase the money, Jacksonville is a strong possibility. If he wants to chase his first career playoff appearance, a team such as the Cardinals or Seattle Seahawks might be a better fit. 

Prediction: Jaguars

Bruce Irvin

Ross D. Franklin/Associated Press

Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio reported on Feb. 29 that the Jaguars will also be in the mix to sign linebacker Bruce Irvin. 

A return to Seattle is also possible, especially if he's motivated by the opportunity to win a championship. However, since this is Irvin's first time hitting the free-agent market, he's likely to go where the money leads him. 

Another potential landing spot for Irvin is Atlanta. 

The Falcons managed just 19 sacks in 2015 and could use another edge-rusher to pair with Vic Beasley. 

It's also worth noting that Irvin is from Atlanta and previously told Black Sports Online that he would like to return to play for his hometown team. 

Prediction: Falcons