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Written by JM Van Horn
Just like the upcoming NFL Draft, the top ten 2010 NFL free agents are predominantly from the defensive side of the ball. The one thing NFL teams can count on when they chase down these players is that it is going to cost them more money than normal to sign them.
# 1 2010 NFL Free Agent Vince Wilfork – Defensive Tackle
The main reason why the New England Patriots traded Pro Bowler Richard Seymour last season was to make sure they had the money to sign Wilfork, who is one of the top three nose tackles in the game. The Patriots may have to use the franchise tag on Wilfork if they can not agree on a deal. The only way Wilfork will not end up with the Patriots is if Hell freezes over.
# 2 2010 NFL Free Agent Richard Seymour – Defensive Tackle
Seymour bounced back and had a solid 2009 season after the surprise trade was pulled off by his former team. Though Seymour is only two years older than Wilfork, he is still a force in the middle and can play in a 3-4 or 4-3 defense with success. The Raiders would be smart to lock him up, but we know how that goes.
# 3 2010 NFL Free Agent Vincent Jackson – Wide Receiver
When you are discussing the top wide receivers in the NFL, Jackson has to receive consideration about being ranked in the top ten. Jackson broke the 1,000 yards mark for the second time in his career and had a career high nine touchdown receptions. It is doubtful the Chargers will let Jackson wander elsewhere and will franchise him if needed.
# 4 2010 NFL Free Agent Leon Washington – Running Back
Prior to breaking his leg during the 2009 season, Washington was on his way to setting career highs while making an impact in the Jets offense. Washington is the perfect speed compliment in a two back system that most teams are currently using. As an added bonus, Washington is a threat every time he returns a kick. The Jets will make a serious offer to keep him if they want to continue to build upon their success.
# 5 2010 NFL Free Agent Pierre Thomas – Running Back
If you did not know who Thomas was before Super Bowl XLIV, you know now he is a bruising back who can break tackles at will. Thomas’ impact on the Saints has continued to grow and now gives them the power back they need to grind the ball out. The Saints will make sure this restricted free agent stays home to help defend their title.
# 6 2010 NFL Free Agent Tony Richardson – Fullback
At first glance, many may wonder why a 38 year old fullback warrants being on this list. He is a reason why five of the last seven seasons, his teams have had a top ten running attack. Richardson has been conditioned and has only missed more than two games once in his 15 year career. Teams know Richardson still has a few years left in him and they will seek out his services in 2010.
# 7 2010 NFL Free Agent Brandon Marshall – Wide Receiver
Despite the slow start to his 2009 season, Marshall finished with 101 receptions for the third 1,000 yard season of his four year career. While Marshall has been troublesome off the field, his football ability has made up for it. The Broncos will use this off-season to part ways with Marshall and move on without him.
# 8 2010 NFL Free Agent Karlos Dansby – Linebacker
While the linebacker group was the cause of concern at times in Arizona, Dansby did everything he could to make sure his team had a chance. Dansby is a solid producer, capable of making a game turning play. This is something many NFL teams would like to have in their lineup. If the Cardinals find Dansby out of their price range, he could be out of the desert by 2010.
# 9 2010 NFL Free Agent Darren Sharper – Safety
At the age of 24, some teams felt Sharper was washed up. Instead, Sharper spent the 2009 season showing teams he could still contribute by hauling in nine interceptions and scoring three defensive touchdowns. The Vikings made a mistake and let Sharper leave, do not expect the Saints to do the same to their big play maker.
# 10a 2010 NFL Free Agent Elvis Dumervil – Defensive End
Dumervil came out of no where in 2009 to lead the NFL with 17 sacks by using his speed and stature. Despite his success, there are still some questions because he only brings his pass rushing ability to the table. Dumervil is a perfect fit for the Denver Broncos’ defensive scheme, so expect these two to develop a financial relationship to keep it intact.
# 10b 2010 NFL Free Agent - Julius Peppers – Defensive End
During the 2009 season, Peppers was motivated by the franchise tag. He forced offenses to focus on him as he harassed their quarterbacks. Though Peppers was able to record 10.5 sacks during the season, NFL teams had the chance to see Peppers has become one dimensional. If the Panthers are smart, they will let Peppers disappear into the sunset and move in another direction.
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