Stephon Gilmore, Cornerback
Prediction: Chicago Bears ($54M Cap Space)
2nd Option: Tennessee Titans ($64M Cap Space)
The Chicago Bears Head Coach John Fox and General Manager Ryan Pace are on the hot seat. They need to show some progress after last year’s disastrous 3-13 season. This likely means they will be spending during the free agency period.
The team’s biggest need is arguably at the cornerback position. Stephon Gilmore would be a perfect fit for Chicago because he’s young enough to be around when the rebuild is complete and has the potential of a No. 1 cornerback.
If Gilmore wants to go to a team closer to making a playoff run he could turn his attention to the Tennessee Titans. They have a major need at the position and plenty of money to spend on upgrades.
Related Story: John Ross Sets Record at the Combine
Alshon Jeffery, Wide Receiver
Prediction: San Francisco 49ers ($92M Cap Space)
2nd Option: Tennessee Titans ($64M Cap Space)
Alshon Jeffery has made no secret that he wants to be paid like a No. 1 receiver. This is one of the main reasons why the Chicago Bears were willing to let him hit the open market. Jeffery will get the contract he wants based on the lack of receivers with his type of upside hitting the market.
The San Francisco 49ers have a ton of cap space and just hired an offensive minded head coach. They also lack a real difference maker at the wide receiver position. This is a team that is in prime position to pay Jeffery like a No. 1 receiver.
Jeffery could opt to take a little less money and go to a contender like the Tennessee Titans. The Titans are a more attractive options because they’re a better overall team and have stability at the quarterback position with Marcus Mariotia.