20 Veterans Who Need to Step Up in 2011

Now that the draft is over, it is time to get back to free agency.  Oh, wait...we still don't have a labor agreement, do we?

There is a special form of free agency: getting a little more out of a veteran than a team did the year before.  Be it a high draft pick finally living up to their expectations or a former standout player getting back into an earlier groove, teams across the NFL will look to improve in '11 via in-house talent.

The following slides will look at two teams from each division (with a few bonus additions).

Seattle Seahawks: Lofa Tatupu and Marcus Trufant

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SEATTLE, WA - DECEMBER 05: Linebacker Lofa Tatupu #51 of the Seattle Seahawks celebrates with teammates after returning an interception for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers at Qwest Field on December 5, 2010 in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks

Despite their postseason victory at the end of last season, the Seahawks have a lot of issues to work out.  They did make some moves in the offseason during the draft to shore up their secondary and LB corps, but their preference would be to have two of their former Pro Bowl players back to form.

Tatupu's size has been a concern, and the contact has been taking a toll.  Few players have endeared himself to a franchise like Tatupu, but being slowed by injuries will lead his former college and current NFL coach to draw a line in the sand.

Another fan favorite in Seattle, Trufant has suffered through injuries the last three years.  He can show flashes of brilliance one game, only to get blown by in the next.  He'd be the best CB on Seattle's roster when he's healthy.  He's not worthy of a starting spot the last two seasons, though.

San Francisco 49ers: Nate Clements

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SAN FRANCISCO, CA - JANUARY 02: Tim Hightower #34 of the Arizona Cardinals is tackled by Nate Clements #22 and Shawntae Spencer #36 of the San Francisco 49ers during an NFL game at Candlestick Park on January 2, 2011 in San Francisco, California. (Ph

As much as I want to put Alex Smith here, it makes no sense.  If he is re-signed, it will be to keep the spot warm for Colin Kaepernick.  

Nate Clemments, on the other hand…similar to Trufant in Seattle, Clements has big expectations and a big contract.  He also underperformed in 2010, despite reporting in excellent shape.  It will be interesting to see if Jim Harbaugh is willing to give him an opportunity under his current contract. 

Dallas Cowboys: RB Position

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HOUSTON - SEPTEMBER 26: Running back Marion Barber #24, center, of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates with Tashard Choice #23, left, and Felix Jones #28, right after scoring in the second quarter against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium on September 26,

Marion Barber and/or Felix Jones appear to be on their way out following the Cowboys’ decision to draft DeMarco Murray (RB, Oklahoma).  The RB position seemed to be adequately stocked, so the decision to draft Murray over addressing concerns in the secondary likely means one of these two won’t make it out of training camp.

New York Giants: Kenny Phillips

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PHILADELPHIA - NOVEMBER 21: Kenny Phillips #21 of the New York Giants tries to tackle Jason Avant #81 of the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on November 21, 2010 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Nick Laham/Getty Images)

While Phillips is not quite an established veteran, it is time for him to shine.  He was a first-round pick in ‘08, but has yet to show the skill-set that was expected of him.  If he wants to get that all-important second contract, it is time for him to step up and show he's learned how to be a solid S in the NFL.

Minnesota Vikings: Bryant McKinnie

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NEW ORLEANS - SEPTEMBER 09: Bryant McKinnie #74 of the Minnesota Vikings at Louisiana Superdome on September 9, 2010 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

McKinnie has shown the ability to be a standout blocker in the NFL, but his protection took a definitive step back last season.  It was tempting to put Hutchinson, and the rest of the Vikings OL, on this list as well.  With the possibility that a rookie QB will be taking snaps in Minnesota this season, they all need to step up and give him the time to be successful.  

Adrian Peterson wouldn't complain about having a few more holes to run through, either.

Chicago Bears: Jay Cutler

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CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 23: Quarterback Jay Cutler #6 of the Chicago Bears looks to throw the ball against the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Championship Game at Soldier Field on January 23, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

It might not be fair to put the QB that led his team to the NFC Championship Game in 2010 on this list, but Cutler has his work cut out for him in 2011.  If the Bears are going to step up this season, Cutler will need to be consistent.

Part of his improvement could come from an improved OL, and Gabe Carimi will certainly help there.  The Bears could also use some help for him at WR, but that didn't come via the draft.  Cutler can't carry the team on his own, but he'll almost need to carry the offense unless they make a big move in free agency.

Carolina Panthers: Steve Smith

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CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 19: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie #29 of the Arizona Cardinals breaks up a pass to Steve Smith #89 of the Carolina Panthers during their game at Bank of America Stadium on December 19, 2010 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by

...if he is around long enough.  Smith contends that he hasn't asked for a trade; he has merely told management he wants to contribute to a team headed in the right direction.  Perhaps he can get on the same page with Cam Newton and that team will be the Panthers.

It is hard to ignore that Smith's time is limited, and he wants to make a mark before retiring.  A trade isn't out of the question, but if he stays in Carolina, Smith will certainly need to improve his performance over his 2010 campaign.

Atlanta Falcons: John Abraham

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ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 15: Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers elludes the pass rush of John Abraham #55 of the Atlanta Falcons during their 2011 NFC divisional playoff game at Georgia Dome on January 15, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Street

Yes, I did just throw out the pass rushing DE from the Falcons.  The Falcons have a very good DL, and Abraham is extremely valuable as a pass rusher.  However, the Falcons' goal is making the Super Bowl.  Anything less in 2011 will be a disappointment.

If they are going to get there, they need Abraham to step up and be as good against the run as he is against the pass.  He also needs to give 100 percent on every play.  

Kroy Biermann is becoming a solid, complete player at the other end position.  Abraham needs to show he has value beyond 2011.

Denver Broncos: Brian Dawkins

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DENVER - NOVEMBER 14: Safety Brian Dawkins #20 of the Denver Broncos makes a diving attempt to tackle running back Jamaal Charles #25 of the Kansas City Chiefs during the first quarter at INVESCO Field at Mile High on November 14, 2010 in Denver, Colorad

This was a tough call, as the team's plans at QB are so clouded right now.  Kyle Orton might make sense on this list, but he may not be on the opening-day roster.

Dawkins is definitely at the top of this list for the Broncos.  His replacement has been drafted, so if Dawkins wants to be more than a mentor, he'll have to step up his game...and he might also need to cut his pay.  Rahim Moore and Quinton Carter might be the future, but Dawkins could be the present and immediate future for Denver.

Kansas City Chiefs: Tyson Jackson

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KANSAS CITY, MO - AUGUST 27: Head coach Todd Haley of the Kansas City Chiefs with Tyson Jackson #94 prior to a preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Arrowhead Stadium on August 27, 2010 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by G. Newman Lowrance/G

It is difficult to consider a player with two years under his belt a veteran, but when you are the third overall pick in the draft, there are certain expectations.  As of yet, Jackson hasn't met them.  31 Tackles and one sack on a season isn't going to cut it in the NFL.

It is time for Jackson to step up and show he can play in the NFL or be at risk of being done at the end of his first contract.  

San Diego Chargers: Marcus McNeil

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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - NOVEMBER 8: Marcus McNeill #73 of the San Diego Chargers against the New York Giants at Giants Stadium on November 8, 2009 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Chargers defeated the Giants 21-20. (Photo by Nick Laham/Getty Images)

Okay...I am listing three teams from the AFC West.  I'll be brief here.  

McNeil must be his old self again if the Chargers are going to be dominant on the ground again.  They have the weapons at the skill positions, now they just need the OL to cooperate.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Bryant McFadden

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PITTSBURGH, PA - NOVEMBER 21: Bryant McFadden #20 of the Pittsburgh Steelers lines up before the snap against the Oakland Raiders during the game on November 21, 2010 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jared Wickerham/Getty Images)

The Steelers can point to the secondary as a turning point in their Super Bowl loss.  They have made investments in the position, but as of yet they aren't getting the expected returns.  

McFadden may have to step up as their No. 1 CB in 2011.  It is questionable if he is up to the task.  The Steelers essentially traded Santonio Holmes for him...this is the year for him to prove it was a good move.  Nine interceptions is a goal for some CBs in a season.  Getting that over six years won't impress anyone.

Baltimore Ravens: Derrick Mason

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HOUSTON, TX - DECEMBER 13: Wide receiver Derrick Mason #85 of the Baltimore Ravens scores his second toudhdown of the quarter against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium on December 13, 2010 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)

The signing of Torrey Smith could round out the WR puzzle for the Ravens.  Mason's time could be limited unless he can show he has more value than Smith and Anquan Boldin.  

Mason and Boldin's 2010 numbers were as close to identical as two receivers can get (61 Rec, 802 Yds, 7 TDs and 64 Rec, 837 Yds, 7 TDs).  However, the two disappeared down the stretch.  Mason's disappearing act could be permanent from a purple jersey if he doesn't turn things around.

Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Gonzalez

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INDIANAPOLIS - NOVEMBER 01: Anthony Gonzalez #11 of Indianapolis Colts runs with the ball while defended by Eugene Wilson #26 of the Houston Texans during the NFL game at Lucas Oil Stadium on November 1, 2010 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyon

99 Receptions, 1,307 Yards and seven TDs—that is a stat line one would expect of a first-round selection at WR, particularly when the QB throwing him the ball is the better Manning brother.  However, that is what would be expected in one season, not three.  

There have been concerns with what targets Peyton can utilize.  Gonzalez needs to make it clear he can be a solid option or he will be looking for a new team.  

Jacksonville Jaguars: David Garrard

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JACKSONVILLE, FL - DECEMBER 26: Quarterback David Garrard #9 of the Jacksonville Jaguars attempts a pass during the game against the Washington Redskins at EverBank Field on December 26, 2010 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Image

The writing is already on the wall for Garrard.  He just needs to step up and show it is written in pencil, not ink.  Blaine Gabbert isn't ready to start in the NFL, and Garrard isn't ready to take a back seat.  With a solid 2011 campaign he can assure himself of an opportunity to keep the reins in 2012.

Buffalo Bills: Ryan Fitzpatrick

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ORCHARD PARK, NY - DECEMBER 26: Ryan Fitzpatrick #14 of the Buffalo Bills readies to pass against the New England Patriots at Ralph Wilson Stadium on December 26, 2010 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Rick Stewart/Getty Images)

Okay, so the Bills aren't expected to contend in the AFC.  I still wanted to give some recognition to a QB that did the most with as little as we've seen in the NFL for quite some time.

The Bills either gave Fitzpatrick a vote of confidence, missed terribly in the NFL Draft or are anticipating another bad season and looking to win the Andrew Luck sweepstakes.  Regardless, Fitzpatrick will be the guy in 2011.

While many analysts have decreed him as a stop-gap QB at best, Fitzpatrick did give Bills fans reasons to be optimistic.  He was working with a supporting cast fairly devoid of skill, yet he made the offense look solid in 2010.  They had several impressive losses and a few impressive wins.

Fitzpatrick can take a stranglehold on the Bills QB position with a better showing in 2011.  He's only 28, and any QB that can throw for 3,000 yards (exactly, I might add) and notch 23 TDs with Buffalo's group of receivers deserves another chance.

New England Patriots: Wes Welker and Deion Branch

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DETROIT - NOVEMBER 25: Deion Branch #84 of the New England Patriots celebrates with teammates Tom Brady #12 and Wes Welker #83 after a fourth quarter touchdown during the game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on November 25, 2010 in Detroit, Michig

Here is my other double-dip.  But this position just wasn't the same in 2010, and someone needs to step up for Tom Brady in '11.  

With the number of draft picks the Patriots had in 2011, it sure doesn't seem like they did much.  I know, Bill is a genius and nobody works a draft like the master.  Still, I haven't quite figured out what he was trying to accomplish in 2011.  

Yes, he grabbed a talented, yet injury-prone CB.  He also made trades for two early picks again in '12, and picked up the QB that could replace Tom Brady.  The problem is, who is going to be catching balls in '11?

Welker had a somewhat pedestrian season when he was expected to carry the load at WR.  Without Randy Moss, the passing game took a bit of a nose dive.  Deion Branch came back from Seattle and helped, but it seems clear the team needs Welker to step up and be an actual No. 1 receiver. 

He won't be at risk of being ran out of town if he notches another 800-yard season, but it certainly won't get him the kind of contract he'd like to go out on.