Finding landing spots for 8 free agents who were waiting out the draft
With over 300 new players joining the league over the last week, free agency seems like forever ago - but it's not over yet.
There are still several veteran players without a team, players who remain good enough to potentially make a contribution on the field, but not so good that teams were willing to sign them before seeing who they got in the draft.
Now that all 32 rosters have received a substantial boost in clarity, it's time to fill in the missing pieces and sign a second wave of free agents. But where will they end up?
Jamaal Charles, RB
If the 30-year-old is back to full health, or somewhat close to it, after essentially missing over a season and a half with a torn ACL, he can provide a solid option as a third-down back with breakaway speed. His biggest hurdle will be getting and staying healthy. Any team who didn't get deeper at running back through the draft should be happy to get Charles.
Potential landing spots: Broncos, Chargers, Giants
Colin Kaepernick, QB
Teams with a backup quarterback vacancy who didn't take a pass thrower are out of excuses on Kaepernick. The 29-year-old field general's lack of new team has been a major talking point of the offseason, as less talented throwers like Josh McCown and Nick Foles have received and accepted offers. There are still a few teams who could take a major upgrade at QB2.
Potential landing spots: Buccaneers, Seahawks
Michael Floyd, WR
A former first-round pick and 1,000-yard receiver, Floyd's value has plummeted in the last calendar year due to his poor production, DUI arrest, and status as a healthy scratch in the playoffs. Floyd isn't the No. 1 target he was once expected to be, but is better than your average veteran depth receiver and can buy time for rookie pass catchers learning the ropes.
Potential landing spots: Bills, 49ers, Jets
LeGarrette Blount, RB
The big boy's gotta eat. Coming off his impressive 18-touchdown season, Blount has only reportedly received interest from the Patriots, who didn't offer much, and Giants, who did draft a back in the fourth round. At the very least, Blount can still be a goal-line and short-yardage back with the potential to lead a backfield.
Potential landing spots: Bills, Giants, Eagles, Lions
Nick Mangold, C
The seven-time Pro Bowl center was a leader on the Jets' offense for a decade before his release this offseason. He's the ideal center to plant in the middle of a young offense, as his leadership, communication, and line-calling skills are among the best, though his physical abilities are a bit suspect.
Potential landing spots: Ravens, Jaguars, Bengals
Jared Odrick, DL
He's not the most conventional guy - which may be the reason he's a free agent - but Odrick is a former first-round pick who can play in multiple schemes. Like Mangold, the 29-year-old may be best suited to land on a defensive line filled with young talent so he can be a leader and fill in where needed.
Potential landing spots: Raiders, Falcons, 49ers
Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB
Yup, Fitzpatrick is still around, and he still wants to play. It's likely safe to assume that the Harvard product won't be looking for starter money after over-selling himself last offseason. It's time for Fitzpatrick to revert back to his original role as a backup, potentially mentoring a rookie passer.
Potential landing spots: Buccaneers, Rams, Texans
Dwight Freeney, DE
The king of the spin move had hoped to finish his career on a Super-Bowl high, but was dealt a very harsh reality. The 37-year-old showed he can be a tremendous mentor for young pass-rushers and still chip in when called upon. After his work with Vic Beasley last year, someone should scoop him up as a personal pass rush coach to a talented young defender.
Potential landing spots: Browns, 49ers, Cowboys
(Photos courtesy: Action Images)