Top Free Agents: Johnson, Trevathan headline top-heavy linebacker class

With free agency just around the corner, theScore takes a look at the top available players at each position. Unrestricted free agents can officially sign at 4 p.m. ET on March 9.

Top Free Agents by position

Linebackers

Derrick Johnson

Height: 6'3"
Weight: 242 lbs.
Age: 33

2015 stats: 116 tackles, 4 sacks, 2 FF, 2 INTs

Johnson remains one of the NFL's premier inside linebackers, and was named a second-team All-Pro after a standout 2015 campaign. Outstanding in coverage, he can be deployed on tight ends and running backs out of the flat and displays excellent diagnostic ability. Johnson would be an asset to a number of teams, particularly those that play out of a 3-4 base scheme.

Potential landing spots: Kansas City Chiefs, Indianapolis Colts, Arizona Cardinals, Washington Redskins, Green Bay Packers

Danny Trevathan

Height: 6'1"
Weight: 240 lbs.
Age: 25

2015 stats: 109 tackles, 2 INTs, 6 passes defensed

Trevathan was criminally underrated while starring for the Broncos' defense over the past four seasons, leading the team in tackles en route to Super Bowl glory in 2015. In the middle of his prime, he possesses outstanding sideline-to-sideline range and continues to develop into an excellent defender in coverage. He is expected to warrant a massive contract if he hits free agency, and the Broncos will likely need to decide between retaining him or edge-rusher Malik Jackson.

Potential landing spots: Denver Broncos, New York Giants, Cleveland Browns, Arizona Cardinals

Rolando McClain

Height: 6'4"
Weight: 255 lbs.
Age: 26

2015 stats: 80 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 INT

McClain is a mercurial talent who stars against the run, but invites trepidation due to his two retirements at this juncture of his career. There is little doubt about his all-around game, but his erratic off-field behavior and dubious commitment to the game are legitimate reasons for concern. Due to his talent, McClain could be a high-risk, high-reward proposition for a Super Bowl contender in need of help across the middle of the field.

Potential landing spots: Dallas Cowboys, New England Patriots, Cincinnati Bengals

Vincent Rey

Height: 6'0"
Weight: 255 lbs.
Age: 28

2015 stats: 98 tackles, 1 sack, 1 INT

Rey possesses the ability to play inside and outside linebacker with equal proficiency, an asset that ought to be coveted during free agency. The Bengals are rumored to be making a strong push to retain him, but his versatility will make him an attractive prospect if he leaves. Rey, who is best utilized as a run-stopper, is improving in coverage, and could be a valuable piece for a number of teams.

Potential landing spots: Cincinnati Bengals, New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, Carolina Panthers, Pittsburgh Steelers

James Laurinaitis

Height: 6'2"
Weight: 248 lbs.
Age: 29

2015 stats: 109 tackles, 1 sack, 1 FF, 1 INT

Laurinaitis was a salary-cap casualty that can still provide value to a host of teams looking for an above-average run-stopper. The veteran linebacker was graded as the most efficient tackler in 2014, according to Pro Football Focus, and, at the very worst, will be a valuable rotational piece. Laurinaitis said he's looking to play for a Super Bowl contender, and he may be granted his wish.

Potential landing spots: Denver Broncos, Carolina Panthers, New England Patriots, Green Bay Packers

Stephen Tulloch

Height: 5'11"
Weight: 245 lbs.
Age: 31

2015 stats: 107 tackles, 1 sack, 1 FF

Tulloch was released by the Lions, ostensibly to save cap space, but will still be a valuable asset to a host of teams. At this juncture of his career, he excels against the run but can often be a liability in pass coverage. If used solely for the first two downs, Tulloch can continue to succeed as a specialist, or take the majority of snaps with an up-and-coming club.

Potential landing spots: Indianapolis Colts, San Diego Chargers, Seattle Seahawks, Houston Texans

Other notable free-agent linebackers

Sean Weatherspoon
DeMeco Ryans
Justin Durant
Shea McClellin
Keenan Robinson
Jon Beason
Casey Matthews