Predicting the 5 Biggest 2012 NFL Free-Agent Contracts

When free agency opens on March 13, some of the NFL's most prominent players, including a record-setting quarterback and a former No. 1 overall pick, will be courted by various teams.

It'll be up to those players' agents to create a market for their clients and get the most money possible. Some players will get the offers they want right away, others may have to wait a little longer.

Here are the five players who will land the biggest free-agent contracts this offseason.

Drew Brees
After making just over $7 million in 2011, Brees is headed for a huge payday this offseason.

While Brees is a free agent, no one believes he will leave the the Saints. It'll be up to his agent Tom Condon, the same agent who negotiated Peyton Manning's $98 million deal, to get Brees the best deal possible.

Brees is coming off a record-breaking 2011 season where he passed for the most yards in NFL history with 5,476. He also tossed 46 touchdowns, which was a career-high for him. Brees' career year should pave the way for a monster contract extension.

Brees' six season in New Orleans have been masterful. He has thrown for 28,394 passing yards and 201 touchdowns during that stretch. He has also become the face of New Orleans, helping rally that city back from Hurricane Katrina.

New Orleans can't afford to lose Brees. Look for Brees to become the next $100 million quarterback, with $30 to $35 million in guaranteed money.

Ray Rice
The Baltimore Ravens will not let Rice get away, no matter how much money it takes.

Rice is Baltimore's most important offensive player and should get handsomely rewarded this offseason.

Rice has been extremely durable, despite his small stature. In four seasons with the Ravens, Rice has missed just three games and that was during his rookie season. During his career, Rice has scored 29 touchdowns and tallied more than 6,500 total yards. That combination of production and durability should go a long way at the negotiating table.

At age 25, Rice has a long career ahead of him and the Ravens should make him the highest paid running back in the league.

A six-year deal worth $58 to $60 million with $20 to $24 million in guaranteed money would make Rice very happy and keep him in Baltimore for a long while.

Mario Williams
Despite tearing a pectoral muscle in Week 5, and a switch from defensive end from linebacker, Williams showed enough in those five games to earn himself a healthy payday.

In five games last year, Williams had five sacks and one forced fumble. He's the top pass-rusher in this year's free-agent class and he'll get paid like it.

If Williams reaches the open market, expect some team to offer him a long-term deal worth $45 to $50 million with $17 to $20 million in guaranteed money.

Matt Flynn
When Flynn threw from 480 yards and six touchdowns in Week 17 against the playoff-bound Detroit Lions, that sound you heard was a cash register opening up.

Flynn has spent his career backing up MVP Aaron Rodgers, but now is preparing to jettison Green Bay for a starting quarterback gig. Even if Flynn's Week 17 performance was a fluke, he's still looking at a big payday.

There are enough teams desperate for a quarterback that Flynn will get a lucrative deal, even though he's played just a couple NFL games.

Look for Miami, Cleveland, Seattle and Washington to pursue Flynn this offseason. The logical choice might be Miami now that former Packers offensive coordinator Joe Philbin is the Dolphins new head coach.

Flynn turns 27 this summer, so he still has plenty of years ahead of him. His age, along with his upside, should garner a lucrative contract in the offseason.

Carl Nicks
Nicks' name may not be as recognizable as Drew Brees' or Marques Colston's, but he's just as important to the Saints offense. Nicks is a young offensive guard and will be highly sought after he hits the open market.

Nicks is just 26 years old and has started all but three games during his four-year career in New Orleans. At 6'3" and 343 pounds, he's big, strong and dominates in the middle for the Saints offensive line.

In the open market, Nicks could be looking at a Steve Hutchinson-type deal which was seven years worth $49 million.

2012 NFL Free Agency: Which Agents Will Be Most Active?

As the NFL season comes to a close, the season for NFL agents is just beginning.

This is their time to earn their money and land their client lucrative contracts.

Now that the offseason has arrived, here are the agents that will be busiest in the days and weeks leading up to the opening of free agency on March 13, 2012.

Tom Condon
Condon is one of the most powerful agents in the NFL and he has a long list of quarterback clients that includes Eli Manning, Tony Romo, Matthew Stafford and Matt Ryan.

But the two quarterbacks that will keep him the busiest this offseason are Peyton Manning and Drew Brees.

Condon, who is part of Creative Artists Agency, was the man who negotiated Peyton's $98 million deal, which included a record $34 million signing bonus. It's likely he'll be negotiating on Peyton's behalf again, but this time under much different circumstances.

Most people believe Peyton—and his surgically repaired neck—will be released by the Colts this offseason before he's scheduled to make a sizable roster bonus. It'll be Condon's job to convince other teams that his client is healthy enough to play and is entitled to a hefty payday.

When Condon isn't working on a Manning deal, he'll most certainly be in New Orleans working on a new deal for Drew Brees. Brees is a free agent, but the Saints have intention of letting him leave. It'll be up to Condon to get Brees the best deal without leaving the Saints with no money pay other players.

Ben Dorga
Dogra is partners with Tom Condon at Creative Artists Agency and the duo will be busy this offseason. While Condon will focus on CAA's high-profile offensive clients, Dogra represents two of the biggest defensive free agents.

It will be Dogra's job to get long-term deals for Mario Williams and Brent Grimes.

Despite tearing a pectoral muscle in Week 5 and a switch from defensive end to linebacker, Williams showed enough in those five games to earn himself a healthy payday. In five games, he had five sacks and one forced fumble and Williams, a former first overall pick, is the top pass-rusher in this year's free agent class and he'll get paid like it.

As for Grimes, he's one of the top free agent cornerbacks available. With the league becoming pass-heavy, Grimes and other cornerbacks will continue to get paid.

Another client sure to keep Dogra busy (perhaps the busiest) is Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III. Griffin is expected to be one of the most sought after rookie quarterbacks in this year's draft. It'll be up to Dogra to get Griffin to shoot up draft boards.

Joel Segal
Segal and his associates at Lagardere Unlimited Football have one of the most coveted free agent wide receivers on the market in Marques Colston.

The New Orleans Saints wide receiver is coming off a very productive season where he had 80 catches for 1,143 yards and eight touchdowns. He was also solid in the postseason with 16 receptions, 256 yards and a touchdown.

Segal's toughest job will be convince teams that Colston, who's entering his seventh season, can hold up for 16 games and is worth a long-term contract.

Colston has battled various injuries during his career, including a couple knee surgeries.

The good news for Segal, Colston finished last season strong and will likely be pursued by several teams.

Segal will also get calls about free agent running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis. Green-Ellis was hardly an impact player this season, averaging 3.7 yards per carry, but he did score 11 touchdowns. Some team will covet him as a short-yardage back.

It's Segal's job to find Green-Ellis, who's scored 24 touchdowns the last two seasons, a healthy payday.

Jonathan Feinsod
This year's free agency class includes some solid wide receivers, one of them being Vincent Jackson.

Feinsod, Jackson's agent, should be able to find enough teams to drive up the price for his client.

More good news for Feinsod, the Chargers likely won't place the franchise tag on Jackson but may be willing to offer a long-term deal.

The more teams that want in on the Jackson sweepstakes, the more money he'll get. It's Feinsod's job to get more teams interested.

Pat Dye, Jr.
When Matt Flynn threw from 480 yards and six touchdowns against the Detroit Lions in Week 17, Dye had to have seen dollar signs. Dye represents the free agent backup quarterback, who is expected to jettison Green Bay for a starting quarterback gig.

It'll be up to Dye to convince teams that Flynn's Week 17 performance wasn't a fluke and he deserves a long-term contract and a big payday.

Adisa Bakari
Bakari will try and convince the Chicago Bears to "pay the man." That was the mantra this season in Chicago when discussing Matt Forte's contract status.

Forte is a free agent this offseason and missed out on a long-term deal during the season.

Bakari's job will be convince the Bears that his client deserves a multi-year deal with plenty of guaranteed money.

The Bears are rumored to be considering using its franchise tag on Forte, who missed part of last season with a knee injury. If Forte does get hit with the franchise tag, look for a possible holdout from the Pro Bowl running back. It'll be Bakari's job to prevent that from happening and strike a deal that satisfies both sides.

Drew Rosenhaus
Rosenhaus always seems to be in the news, and don't expect that to change this offseason.

One of Rosenhaus' more prominent clients, DeSean Jackson of the Philadelphia Eagles, was the target of much scrutiny this season.

Jackson, who is a free agent, was accused by teammates of quitting on the Eagles. It'll be up to Rosenhaus to convince teams that those claims are false and his client is worth a long-term investment.

If Rosenhaus can help Jackson repair his image, he'll help him to a big payday.

Blake Baratz
Baratz is one of the younger sports agents, yet he has one of the most intriguing free agents as a client.

Baratz represents Green Bay Packers tight end Jermichael Finley, who is far and away the most talented tight end in this year's free-agent class.

However, Finely has some red flags that could keep potential suitors away. During his four seasons in the NFL, Finley has spent a lot of time on injured reserve. He twice injured his knee, forcing him to miss 14 games the last three seasons. Also, Finely struggled with dropped passes this season. He finished with 13 dropped passes on 103 targets.

However, Finley did set career highs with 55 catches, 767 yards and eight touchdowns this season. He's also a matchup nightmare for defenses because of his size and speed.

Baratz will try and convince the Packers to avoid using the franchise tag on Finley and give him a long-term contract.

Fantasy Football 2011: Week 8 Waiver Wire

Injury lists get a little longer for NFL teams this time of year and we're starting to see some prominent names popping up on those lists. Last week was a tough one for several players, many of whom are every week fantasy starters. Beanie Wells, Willis McGahee, Darren McFadden, Marshawn Lynch, Santana Moss and Earnest Graham all went down with injuries in week seven and many of them will miss multiple weeks.

Finding consistent replacement players for the guys mentioned above won't be easy on your waiver wire, but there are some good options out there for those of you looking to cobble together a line-up every week. Here are the week 8 waiver wire pick-ups from The Source.

Christian Ponder, QB, Minnesota Vikings
Never before has a quarterback who completed 41% of his passes been a cause for optimism. But for the Minnesota Vikings, Ponder certainly breathed new life into a struggling offense and nearly engineered a comeback win over the unbeaten Green Bay Packers on Sunday. Ponder's ability to get the ball downfield makes him a valuable fantasy quarterback. He finished Sunday's game with 219 yards passing, 31 yards rushing and 2 TDs - a solid stat line for a guy making his first career start. Ponder has some favorable match-ups coming up and is worth stashing as a QB2 right now - with the potential to start for your fantasy team in a couple of weeks.

Bernard Scott, RB, Cincinnati Bengals
Scott is the epitome of a short-term investment. Scott will fill-in for Cedric Benson on Sunday, who's serving a one-game suspension. Scott is expected to get the bulk of the carries for the Bengals against the Seattle Seahawks. Scott is a good play this week simply based on opportunity. Scott could be in line for 20 or more touches and that's a good amount of work for a player sitting on a lot of waiver wires.

Knowshon Moreno/Lance Ball, RBs, Denver Broncos
With McGahee likely out for two games with a broken hand, the Broncos will turn (once again) to Moreno as their main ball carrier. I know a lot of owners dumped Moreno after a slow start, so he might be available if you need RB help. However, if Moreno is gone and you're still desperate for a RB, consider picking up Ball. Look for ball to get the short yardage and goal line carries (at least the ones not taken by Tim Tebow).

Roy Helu, RB, Washington Redskins
Good luck trying to figure out Mike Shanahan, but if you need a RB, Roy Helu may be the guy with the most upside on the waiver wire. With Tim Hightower done for the season with a knee injury, the Redskins will rely on Helu and Ryan Torain to carry the load. While Torain appears to be the front-runner for more carries right now, Helu should get his opportunities as the season goes on. But then again, good luck trying to figure out Shanahan.

Michael Jenkins/Devin Aromashodu, WRs, Minnesota Vikings
There are several reasons to like the Vikings wide receivers these days. The Vikings now have a QB in Christian Ponder who isn't afraid to throw the ball downfield, Bernard Berrian is out of the picture and Percy Harvin has a lingering rib injury. Jenkins is coming off his first career 100-yard game and looked like Ponder's favorite target. Aromashodu meanwhile, is on the field the most of any Vikings WR and was targeted on several deep passes in Sunday's loss to Green Bay. If you need one WR it should be Jenkins. However, if you're in a deeper league where the waiver wire has been picked clean, Aromashodu may be for you.

Jabar Gaffney, WR, Washington Redskins
With Moss sidelined with a broken hand for 5-7 weeks, Gaffney will likely see an increase in targets. Gaffney is more valuable in PPR leagues because of the number of targets he'll get, but in standard leagues he's just marginal. He's there if you need him, but if you don't need him don't waste a transaction on him.

Fantasy Football 2011: Week 5 Waiver Wire

We've reached the point in the NFL season where bye weeks are now in play and fantasy line-ups need adjustment. This week: the Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, Miami Dolphins, St. Louis Rams, Baltimore Ravens and Washington Redskins have byes - which means no Ray Rice, no Tony Romo and no Dez Bryant. Also, it's likely injuries will impact your line-up this week, especially if you own Houston Texans WR Andre Johnson, who's out 2-3 weeks with a hamstring injury.

The waiver wire is getting pretty thin and finding an every week starter becomes more difficult with each passing week. However, there are some bye week fill-ins worth taking a look at and some guys who could have an impact later in the season.

Ryan Torain, RB, Washington Redskins
Even though the Redskins are off in Week 5, Torain is worth picking up. Torain had 19 carries for 135 yards against the St. Louis Rams on Sunday and looked like best runner in Washington. Torain is worth adding in all league formats, and especially for owners who have Tim Hightower or Roy Helu. But be warned about Torian, he plays for Mike Shanahan. Shanahan has a tendency to keep fantasy owners guessing more than opposing defenses on who will get the most carries from week-to-week. Regardless, add Torain - he's the best of the running free agents.

Stevan Ridley, RB, New England Patriots
After a solid preseason, Ridley got drafted in many leagues as a late-round sleeper. However, after three less than impressive games (where he barely touched the ball), he has a chance to play bigger role in New England's high-powered offense. With Danny Woodhead injured, Ridley took advantage of his first extended playing time of the season and rushed for 97 yards on ten carries and scored his first-career NFL touchdown. BenJarvus Green-Ellis still figures to be the main ball carrier for the Patriots, but Ridley certainly showed what he can do. With that said, Bill Belichick is just like Shanahan in that he keeps fantasy owners guessing on who will get the ball from week-to-week. Ridley is still worth a roster spot, but not a starting spot.

Jacoby Jones, WR, Houston Texans
With Andre Johnson out 2-3 weeks with a hamstring injury, Jones looks to be the most likely candidate to replace him. While it would be crazy to think Jones will match Johnson's offensive production, I think Jones is still a very good addition. If you recall last season when Johnson was out with an injury, Jones had 10 catches for 185 yards in the two games. Jones is a good fill-in WR if you need a bye week replacement, but don't plan on having him on your roster once Johnson is healthy and playing again.

Antonio Brown, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers
It's becoming more clear each week that Brown is emerging as the Steelers number two WR. He has outplayed Emmanuel Sanders and he has younger legs than Hines Ward. On Sunday vs. Houston, Brown led the Steelers in targets (he also led the Steelers in targets in week 3). Brown had huge preseason so he may not be available in your league. But if he is, he's the WR with the most upside going forward.

Tim Tebow, QB, Denver Broncos (pictured)
Maybe it was the pro-Tebow billboards that swayed me, but it might be time to add Tebow to your fantasy roster. His struggles have been well documented and he may not be a very good NFL quarterback, but he's already proven that he can be a fantasy football stud. In the final three games of last season, Tebow finished with 15, 17 and 21 fantasy points (standard scoring). His ability to run and throw makes him just as valuable as (dare I say) Michael Vick and Cam Newton. Go get him now before it's too late.

2011 NFL Free Agency and Trades: Fantasy Football Impact

The NFL season officially got underway this week and the off-the-field action has been moving fast. There have been a lot of rumors, a few monster signings and a couple big trades involving big name players. While NFL teams are busy re-working their rosters, The Source breaks down the fantasy impact of these trades and free agent signings, and tells you whether you should buy'em or sell'em.

Buy'em

Chad Ochocinco, WR, New England Patriots

Ochocinco said he landed in heaven after he was traded to the Patriots. Ochocinco should find new life in New England, much like Randy Moss did in 2009. Ochocinco gives Tom Brady and the Patriots a reliable receiver who can challenge defenses. If Ochocinco can follow the "Patriots way," he will be in for a big season in New England.

Donovan McNabb, QB, Minnesota Vikings

McNabb's fantasy value has plummeted in recent years, but should get a boost now that he's a Viking. McNabb will have the luxury of handing off to Adrian Peterson 20-25 times a game and throwing short passes to Percy Harvin. McNabb also has two very good pass catching tight ends to throw to in Visanthe Shiancoe and rookie Kyle Rudolph. If the Bernard Berrian and newcomer Michael Jenkins can provide the Vikings with any production, McNabb becomes even more of an appealing fantasy option. Consider him a fantasy QB2, with the potential to be fill-in starter against favorable match-ups.  

Reggie Bush, RB, Miami Dolphins

Bush joins a Miami team that is searching for feature back. Bush leaves New Orleans, where he was primarily a pass catcher, to join a Dolphins team where he could play a more prominent role. I'm not sure Bush is a guy who can carry the ball 15-20 times a game, but his fantasy value increases now that he's in Miami. Consider him a solid RB3/flex player (RB2 in PPR leagues). I still think rookie Daniel Thomas will get a bulk of the carries eventually this year for the Dolphins.

Kevin Kolb, QB, Arizona Cardinals

Kolb to the Cardinals was the worst kept secret in the league. With a deal now done (and a ridiculous amount of money thrown Kolb's way: $63 million over five years), Arizona finally has a quarterback who can get the ball to Larry Fitzgerald. I'm not ready to call Kolb a fantasy QB1, but he is a solid back-up option with a big upside. Look for the Cardinals to pick-up another wide receiver before the season, which will help Kolb's value as well. Kolb is a quarterback that you can land later in drafts.

DeAngelo Williams, RB, Carolina Panthers

Most people thought Williams would bolt for Denver and become the Broncos featured back. Instead, Williams re-signed with the Panthers for big money and will share the running back load with Jonathan Stewart. Williams' fantasy value takes a slight hit with him re-signing with Carolina, mostly because he would have had more opportunities for carries in Denver. Still, Williams will likely be the main runner in Carolina and the centerpiece of their offense, simply based on the amount of money the team invested in him. This move hurts Stewart's value the most, as it appeared he was in line to be the Panthers featured back. Also, downgrade Carolina third string running back Mike Goodson, who played well last season.

Santonio Holmes, WR, New York Jets

Holmes helped his fantasy value by staying with the Jets. If Holmes had gone elsewhere, like the Redskins for instance, his value would have decreased. Holmes' best situation as a player and as a fantasy option is with the Jets. In 12 games last year, Holmes was targeted 94 times by quarterback Mark Sanchez. It's clear the duo has good chemistry together and Holmes should be looked at as a solid WR2 in standard leagues. I'd like to see him catch more balls, but he's still a solid WR2 in PPR leagues as well.

Lance Moore, WR, New Orleans Saints

Moore was quarterback Drew Brees' most reliable target last season, catching 66 passes for 763 yards and eight touchdowns. Moore is a consistent receiver, who Brees likes to target in the red zone. Despite playing in an offense that spreads the ball around, Moore will find a way to catch 65-70 balls and seven to eight touchdowns. Consider him a very serviceable WR3 in all leagues.

Willis McGahee, RB, Denver Broncos

McGahee's fantasy value improves now that he's on the Denver Broncos. Expectations are that McGahee will be Denver's goalline back, much like he was in Baltimore. What increases McGahee's value is he's now playing behind Knowshon Moreno, who's injury prone. Also, Moreno is a smaller back and not built to carry the ball 20 times a game. McGahee is a good fit in John Fox's run-heavy offense and he could be a tremendous value pick in the later rounds.

Mike Sims-Walker, WR, St. Louis Rams
The Rams needed to find a big play wide receiver for Sam Bradford and Sims-Walker is who they landed on. While Sims-Walker is not considered a big time receiver, he does have a great opportunity staring him in the face in St. Louis. Sims-Walker has scored seven touchdowns each of the past two years and could be a big part of the Rams new offense under Josh McDaniels. McDaniels is the guy who turned journeyman Brandon Lloyd into a star last season in Denver, Sims-Walker could be that guy this year. Consider Sims-Walker a solid sleeper, who might turn out to be a great value pick in the later rounds.

Cedric Benson, RB, Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals made Benson a top priority this offseason and they got their man locked up. Benson re-signed with the Bengals and it's really the best fit for him. Sure Benson has had his offseason troubles, but he remains a very viable fantasy option. Benson has the ability to carry the ball 20-25 times a game, and while he won't put up gaudy numbers he'll consistently get 75-100 yards per game. Also, with Benson you can count on seven or eight touchdowns a season. Before you write-off Benson, look at his value and where's being drafted.

Darren Sproles, RB, New Orleans

Sproles enters a great situation in New Orleans, He'll be the Saints primary pass catching running back, a role that could mean 50-60 catches. Consider him a good option in PPR leagues, but not necessarily a standard leagues. Keep on eye on the Saints crowded backfield during the preseason. Watch how New Orleans uses Sproles, and more importantly how Mark Ingram, Pierre Thomas and Chris Ivory are being utilized in the passing game. I say wait on Sproles in standard leagues, but buy'em in PPR leagues.

Sell'em

Sidney Rice, WR, Seattle Seahawks

Rice took the money and ran to Seattle, signing a huge 5-year, $41 million deal. Rice's fantasy prospects don't improve any in Seattle, in fact, they take a slight hit with McNabb now in Minnesota. Rice is a tremendous talent when healthy, but Seattle doesn't have a quarterback who can consistently get him the ball. The Seahawks signed former Vikings quarterback Tarvaris Jackson and already have Charlie Whitehurst on their roster, neither are very good NFL quarterbacks. Rice is definitely the best receiver the Seahawks have, but that isn't saying much and he should be considered a WR3 in standard and PPR leagues.

Jospeh Addai, RB, Indianapolis Colts

If Addai can stay healthy, he is still the best option in Indianapolis' backfield, but that's not saying much. Addai should be able to beat out Donald Brown and rookie Delone Carter and maintain his spot atop the Colts depth chart. While Addai isn't the runner he once was, he still has enough left to warrant a pick on draft day. However, consider Addai a back-up running back option for your fantasy team.

Steve Breaston, WR, Kansas City Chiefs

Breaston followed his former offensive coordinator Todd Haley to Kansas City where he'll likely line-up opposite Dwayne Bowe. Breaston is a guy who is a good route runner and can move the chains on third down. Breaston will be a nice compliment to Bowe and rookie Jonathan Baldwin, but don't look for much fantasy value with him. The Chiefs are a run first team and not very dynamic in the passing game. While Breaston is a good fit for the Chiefs, he's not a good fit for your fantasy team. Even if Breaston turns out to be Kansas City's starter opposite Bowe, I'm saying sell'em.

Matt Hasselbeck, QB, Tennessee Titans
Hasselbeck moves into a tough spot in Tennessee, where there is plenty of drama already building. Hasselbeck will lead a team that may not have superstar running back Chris Johnson or wide receiver Kenny Britt to start the season. Johnson is threatening to hold out if he doesn't get a new contract and Britt has legal issues that might lead to him being suspended. And on top of all that, Hasselbeck is nothing more than a bridge quarterback to rookie Jake Locker. If things get bad early for Hasselbeck and the Titans, look for Locker to replace him as starter. Don't waste your time with Hasselbeck, he's not worth a fantasy roster spot.

Santana Moss, WR, Washington Redskins
Moss has been the Redskins most consistent receiver for the past several years and they rewarded him with a new three-year deal. Moss doesn't have the elite speed anymore, but he's still a very good route runner and knows how to get open. However, his stats will likely take a hit this year due to the Redskins quarterback situation. While I don't expect Moss to match his 93 catches, 1,115 receiving yards and six touchdowns from last year, he's still a guy worth having on your fantasy roster as a solid back-up receiver and fringe WR3. But until the Redskins figure out their quarterback situation, I say sell'em.

Tarvaris Jackson, QB, Seattle Seahawks

Jackson left Minnesota after a rocky tenure with the Vikings. The split was mutual and now Jackson finds himself on a team that won a playoff game last year. Not only is he on the team, he's currently Seattle's starting quarterback. Jackson joins his former Vikings offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell in Seattle, along with newly signed free agent Sidney Rice. While Jackson has starting quarterback experience, familiarity with Bevell's offense and a history with Rice - Jackson should not be in your fantasy football plans. His passing is too erratic and he's injury prone -- keep Jackson off your draft boards.

Marion Barber III, RB, Chicago Bears

After being released by the Cowboys, Barber caught on with the Bears where he'll back-up Matt Forte. Barber still has fantasy value as goalline back, but not much more. Barber's 3.3 yards per carry last season was a career low and he's showing signs of wearing down. Don't expect Forte's numbers to suffer too much with the arrival of Barber, but still, Barber might take a goalline touchdown or two away from Forte. Barber's bruising running style has caused his his body to wear down and I don't expect him to have much fantasy impact.

Plaxico Burress, WR, New York Jets

The Jets signed BurressBurress provides the Jets with a big receiver who's a nice compliment to their number one guy Santonio Holmes. I'm not ready to endorse Burress as a fantasy option until I see him on the field. However, he's a good situation with the Jets and could very well become Sanchez's go-to guy in the redzone, but until Burress shows he's back I say sell'em.

James Jones, WR, Green Bay Packers
Jones was considered one of the top free agent wide receivers on the market, but the market turned out to be soft and he returned to the Packers. Jones' fantasy value would have been higher had he signed with another team and became their number two wide receiver. Instead, Jones rejoins a loaded Packers offense where he will compete for passes with Greg Jennings, Donald Driver, Jermichael Finley and Jordy Nelson. Unless Jones makes significant strides in training camp and unseats Driver as the Packers starter.

Report: St. Louis Rams Interested in Sidney Rice

Once a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is reached and free agency begins, expect Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Sidney Rice to be one of the most sought after free agents.

According to Pro Football Talk, one team that is expected to enter the Rice sweepstakes is the St. Louis Rams. The Rams have several mediocre receivers, but no go-to guy.

With quarterback Sam Bradford entering his second season and the arrival of Josh McDaniels as offensive coordinator, Rice would be a good fit for the Rams.
The Vikings have placed a first-rounder tender on Rice, but there's no certainty that option will remain in a new CBA.

Rice, who underwent hip surgery before last season, has missed 16 games in his four season with the Vikings.

Nnamdi Asomugha to the Green Bay Packers? Charles Woodson likes the idea

(Updated: I am hearing rumors that the Packers are doing everything they can to clear enough cap space to make a run at Asomugha when the new CBA is reached -- March 7, 2011)

When the 2011 NFL free agency period begins (whenever that may be), one of the most coveted free agents will be Oakland Raiders CB Nnamdi Asomugha. Nearly every team in the league could use a player like Asomugha, with maybe the exception of Green Bay. However, the idea of Asomugha to Green Bay recently got floated by Asomugha's former Raider teammate and close friend Charles Woodson.

In an interview with ESPNMilwaukee.com, Woodson said he would be open to switching to saftey to make room for Asomugha.

In the interview Woodson said, “If I talked to Dom (Capers) and he thought that was the best thing for us to win another championship I would do it,” Woodson said. “This thing is about winning. If this would have been my fifth year in the league I probably would have told you hell no but at this point if that was going to get me another championship why wouldn’t I?”

Woodson went on to say he has texted Asomugha recently, but said he will not recruit Asomugha to come to Green Bay.

Aside from Woodson, the Packers already have two solid cornerbacks in Tramon Williams and Sam Shields. Plus, the Packers are not known for throwing money at free agents. It would seem like a longshot for Asomugha to land in Green Bay, but an intriguing thought nonetheless.

New Orleans Saints sign Shaun Rogers

The New Orleans Saints added some bulk to their defensive line, signing free agent defensive tackle Shaun Rogers to a one-year deal.

According to ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter, Rogers' deal is worth $4 million.

Rogers was cut on by the Cleveland Browns after an injury plagued 2010 season.

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Sidney Rice to test free agent market

The Minnesota Vikings may have a big hole to fill if Sidney Rice leaves, which according his agent may happen. According to ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter, Drew Rosenhaus, Rice's agent, said the receiver will not sign a deal with the Vikings prior to free agency.

Rosenhaus did leave the option open for Rice returning to Vikings, but said his client wants to test the free agent market.

Rice missed ten games in 2010 after having hip surgery in August. He managed just 17 catches for 280 yards and two touchdowns last season. Rice has missed 16 games due to injury in his four-year career.

Rice, who turns 25 in September, had a breakout season in 2009, catching 83 balls for 1,312 yards and eight touchdowns.

2011 NFL Draft: Telling moves by Carolina Panthers and Denver Broncos?

The two teams atop the 2011 NFL draft board made significant moves today that could impact the draft. The Carolina Panthers, who hold the first overall pick, placed the franchise tag on center Ryan Kalil. Meanwhile, the Denver Broncos signed cornerback Champ Bailey to a new four-year contract. Both decisions could change the teams' strategy on draft day.

For the Panthers, the decision to franchise tag Kalil means 24-year-old defensive end Charles Johnson, who had 11.5 sacks in 2010, will become a free agent. If Johnson leaves Carolina, the Panthers may look to draft a defensive end with the first pick. If that is the case, DE Da'Quan Bowers from Clemson would be the favorite to go first in the draft, replacing current favorite Auburn's DL Nick Fairley. There is an outside shot DE Robert Quinn from North Carolina could jump up draft board after the combine.

As for the Broncos, re-signing Bailey to a long-term deal likely takes CB Patrick Peterson of LSU out of the picture as a possible #2 pick. Also, with Fairley back in the picture, the Broncos may target him to shore up their interior defensive line.

Of course, complicating all of this is the expiring Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). The current CBA is set to expire after March 3, 2011 and until a new deal is reached, free agents will be forced to sit and wait for a new CBA.

The NFL draft is April 28-30, 2011.

St. Louis Rams cut O.J. Atogwe

On the same day the Indianapolis Colts released safety Bob Sanders, another high-priced safety got his walking papers. O.J. Atogwe was let go by St. Louis Rams today.

Atogwe was set to make an $8 million roster bonus on February 21. The Rams just signed the 29-year-old to a five-year, $32 million deal in June.

Now that Atogwe is a free agent, look for the Atogwe-to-the-Vikings rumors to begin. The six-year pro from Stanford is engaged to the daughter of Vikings assistant coach Mike Singletary.

2011 NFL free agents by position

Without a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the 2011 NFL free agency period is very much in jeopardy. The NFL free agency period is scheduled to begin at midnight on March 5, 2011, but a lockout would push that date back. Teams would not be allowed to sign free agents (including their own players) until a new CBA is reached between the NFL and the NFL Players Association.

For players who are free agents this offseason, they are left waiting and wondering when their next contract is going to come.

Here is a complete list of 2011 NFL free agents by position:
QB, RB, WR, TE, OL, DL, LB, CB, S

Minnesota Vikings 2011 -- Free agents, trades and the next quarterback

The Green Bay Packers are Super Bowl champions, the Chicago Bears fell one game short of the Super Bowl and the Detroit Lions didn’t finish in last place in the NFC North. All those things tell me the Minnesota Vikings have a lot of ground to make up if they want to be competitive next year.

The Vikings did the right thing by keeping Leslie Frazier on as head coach. The former defensive coordinator brings the right kind of approach to this franchise. He is transparent, willing to listen to his players and most importantly – he has the player's respect.

But all that stuff doesn’t mean anything unless the Vikings move some moves to get them competitive again. Here are five things that will make the Vikings a better football team next season.

Nnamdi Asomugha to Vikings
A loophole in Asomugha’s contract will allow him to test the free agent market this offseason. The former Oakland Raider is considered one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL and at age 29 (turns 30 in July), he’s still has some years left.

If the Vikings sign Asomugha, their entire defensive backfield would improve - simply by adding one player. A dynamic cornerback like Asomugha can change a defense. Look at how much impact Charles Woodson and Darrelle Revis have had on their respective defenses. A player like Asomugha takes away half the field by himself, which takes a ton of pressure off the other defensive backs. The Vikings could fix that mess in the defensive backfield with one player, Nnamdi Asomugha.

Trade Toby Gerhart
With one of the best running backs in football in Adrian Peterson, the Vikings don’t need Gerhart. At age 23 (turns 24 in March), Gerhart is still very young and would be an upgrade for a lot of teams looking for a running back.

Gerhart doesn’t add much value to the Vikings offense. He’s an average receiver, below average pass blocker and he’s had fumble issues. Essentially, he’s a poor man’s Adrian Peterson.
I could see a team giving up a third round pick for Gerhart, which if I were the Vikings, I’d jump at in a second.

Trade for Kyle Orton
Maybe the Denver Broncos would be interested in swapping Gerhart for Orton. The Broncos showed last season they weren’t satisfied with their running back situation and traded for Laurence Maroney during the year. That failed miserably and after getting arrested this offseason, Maroney may be done in Denver.

Orton has turned out to be a very good NFL quarterback, despite being run out of Chicago and benched for Tim Tebow in Denver. At age 28 (turns 29 in November), Orton still has plenty of years left in him. Over the past three seasons, Orton’s numbers have improved and he’s become a reliable starter. While his record as a starter doesn’t reflect his improvement (he’s played on teams with bad defenses), his stats tell a different tale.

In the past three years, Orton has started 44 games – 15 with the Bears in 2008 and 29 with the Broncos from 2009-2010. In those three seasons, he has passed for 10,427 yards, 59 touchdowns and 33 interceptions. I think it’s time for the Altoona, Iowa native to come back to the Midwest.

Franchise tag Sidney Rice
After missing much of last season because of hip surgery, Rice returned to the line-up and showed a glimpse of what we show two years ago. The verdict is still out on Rice and the questions linger about is ability to stay healthy for a full season. Before rewarding him with a multi-year contract, the Vikings might be better served to place the franchise tag on Rice and let him prove he’s worth the long-term investment.

The Linebackers

If the playoffs taught us anything it’s teams need playmakers at the linebacker position. OLB Chad Greenway has emerged as pro bowl caliber player and is a must “re-sign player” for the Vikings. Greenway is coming off a 144 tackle season and has a knack for always being around the ball. He should be the first player the Vikings sign this offseason.

Joining Greenway on the free agent market is OLB Ben Leber, who is coming off a very average year. At 32, Leber is nearing the end of his career and the Vikings should let him go. The Vikings need to find a more dynamic player to play opposite Greenway. The Vikings don’t have a player like that on their roster and they should target someone in free agency or the draft.

E.J. Henderson still has one year left on his contract and should be back in the middle for the Vikings next season.