NFL Free Agency: Players That Won't Fire Up Fanbases but Are Smart Signings

It's typically more exciting when an NFL team lands a "big name" free agent player to their roster, hoping he will not only be the missing piece to a championship puzzle but also someone who can put fans in seats.

Let's face it; well known players sell tickets.

And with the current lockout doing anything but attracting fans, it can't hurt to get a player with some history in this league to build excitement for the upcoming—we hope—2011 season.

That being said, it's not always the name that gets the job done. Teams that are smart look to find talent where it's needed—to build a better squad with the right man for the job, even if fans aren't going to be thrilled with the addition.

As I look through the list of 2011 NFL free agents, I see a handful of players who are capable of fulfilling exactly those types of roles.

Ike Taylor

Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Ike Taylor could be the perfect compliment to any number one corner. The eight-year vet has been around a while, but he had a solid 2010 season and has plenty of fuel left in his tank. Fans might not be thrilled with the pickup, but they'll soon realize what his maturity and leadership adds to a roster. 

Tim Hightower

Why would the Arizona Cardinals spend a second round draft pick on a running back (Ryan Williams) when they already have Tim Hightower and Beanie Wells? Hightower could be the odd man out in an increasingly crowded Arizona backfield. And thus, probably not the hottest commodity in the 2011 free agent marketplace.

That's too bad, because Hightower still has the skills and low mileage to carry the workload for any NFL team. He had a career best 4.8 yard rushing average last season. And he has proven he can catch the ball out of the backfield during his short career. If he can learn how to hang on to the football, he'll revive his efforts and reach new highs. 

Vernon Gholston

Sure, defensive end Vernon Ghloston has done nothing but disappoint since he was drafted sixth overall in 2008 by the N.Y. Jets. But I can't help but think a change of scenery—not to mention the right system and supporting cast—could ignite his career.

Gholston is still just 25 years old, and his big play potential is off the charts. He'll be welcomed with plenty of skepticism, but the 2011 season could be do or die for Gholston's NFL career—and I believe he'll play like it matters. 

Steve Smith

No, not that Steve Smith, the other Steve Smith. The more popular receiver for the Carolina Panthers would certainly qualify as a big name free agent if, in fact, he were a free agent.

But the other Steve Smith, the N.Y. Giants receiver, had a breakout season in 2009 with 107 receptions for 1,220 yards and seven touchdowns. He lost half of his 2010 season due to a knee injury, so he's flying under the radar in terms of fan appreciation. But make no mistake, if Steve Smith is healthy, he is going to be as solid a slot receiver as there is in the NFL. 

Thomas Davis

The Carolina Panthers linebacker has all sorts of red flags flying with two torn ACLs in as many years. But if healthy, Davis could more than adequately fulfill a part-time role with a team willing to take that risk. The 28-year-old former first round draft pick had impressive career numbers in 2008 before hitting the shelf. If he can get his legs back, he'll be a valuable asset to any organization.