With The First Pick
Fansided

NFL Free Agency Primer: 7 Stories To Follow

By Zack Trapp

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Jan 1, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) passes the ball against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) passes the ball against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

2.) 2016’s Biggest Beneficiary

If you’re reading this, you’re probably familiar with the work of A.J. Bouye by now. The Texans cornerback was the quiet breakout star of the year, ascending from the bottom of the depth chart to the ranks of the league’s most complete corners. The versatile defensive back thrived in Houston’s Cover 4, ranking as PFF’s top cornerback in 2016.

It would be a surprise if Houston retains Bouye. With under $30 million in cap space and a glaring need at quarterback, they don’t have room to sign him to a top market deal, especially with Jonathan Joseph, Kevin Johnson, and Kareem Jackson in the fold. As history has shown us, when cornerbacks of this pedigree become available, the price can be exurbanite. Janoris Jenkins, Byron Maxwell, and Darrelle Revis are just the most recent examples.

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Behind him, there are a number of intriguing names available. Trumaine Johnson is a proven number one corner. Stephon Gilmore has shown the same in flashes. Dre Kirpatrick has the kind of length and physicality that scouts love.

3.) The Best Veteran Quarterback Market In Recent Memory?

Aside for Cousins, this might be the most intriguing veteran quarterback market in recent memory. We’ve all heard that the draft is a wasteland of established talent. The Jimmy Garoppolo sweepstakes is sure to attract a bounty of picks from a quarterback needy team. AJ McCarron holds the same appeal, although to a lesser extent. Jay Cutler and Tyrod Taylor stand a good chance of being cut. Both present good stopgap options for a team close to contention. You’ve already heard all about Tony Romo, and then some.

Every year analysts will hand ring about the lack of quality quarterbacks in the NFL. However, if you really survey the quarterback landscape, there are really only a handful of truly quarterback needy teams: the Jets, Bills, Browns, Jaguars, Texans, 49ers, and potentially the Bears. Some of those vacancies are sure to be filled by veterans, others by rookies.

Mike Glennon and Geno Smith present high upside backup options with intrigue.

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