Before free agency, DNA of Sports offers you its traditional Top 5 free agents who will be available at each position on March 13. Today, the offensive linemen.
1- Andre James (OC) – 26 years old
It's surprising that the top candidate wasn't drafted coming out of UCLA in 2019! After two seasons learning behind Rodney Hudson, he has established himself for three years as an indisputable starter for the Raiders.
In 2023, the ESPN site even ranks Andre James as the 3rd lineman NFL interior in protection!
The ideal destination: Las Vegas Raiders
With a lot of money available and few impact players at the end of their contracts, it would be very surprising if the Raiders let this major player go: especially since he is only 26 years old! Even more if Las Vegas chooses a quarterback in the 1st round of the 2024 draft.
2- Robert Hunt (OG) – 27 years old
While he had not missed a game in his first three seasons, Robert Hunt missed 7 in 2023 and the Dolphins felt his absence! Since his draft in 2020, Robert Hunt has been Miami's best lineman. In 10 2023 games, he only conceded one penalty and one sack!
With little salary room, the Dolphins could lose this player (and/or Connor Williams).
The ideal destination: Indianapolis Colts
The Colts manager remembers having had a dominant offensive line but for two years the squad has run out of steam. With a lot of money available ($70M) and a young quarterback to protect, Chris Ballard could solidify his “major five”.
3- Graham Glasgow (OG) – 31 years old
After three seasons in Denver (2020-2022), he returned to Detroit where he had already played from 2016 to 2019. Graham Glasgow was a major element in the Lions' very good season. Signed for $3 million in 2023, his production deserves more, player tells site Pride of Detroit :
“I think I played very well, one of my two best seasons in the NFL. I would like to make more money than last year and I hope my managers understand that. »
Very effective for the ground game (less in protection), Graham Glasgow also offers the versatility of being able to play any of the three positions inside an offensive line.
The ideal destination: Detroit Lions
Extremely efficient, Detroit's offensive line allowed them to reach the playoffs. With $57 million in salary margin, the Lions will undoubtedly retain him.
4- Connor Williams (OC) – 26 years old
After four seasons as a Guard, the Dallas Cowboys let him join another franchise in 2023. Repositioned at center in Miami, Connor Williams has seemingly found his best position.
The Dolphins would like to keep him but their finances mean that they will not be able to match too big offers.
The ideal destination: Arizona Cardinals
After improving the tackle position with the very promising Paris Johnson, the Cardinals must look at the interior of the offensive line. Lined up in front of quarterback Kyler Murray, Connor Williams would provide protection, while helping the running game (13th 2023 offense in rushing attempts).
5- Alaric Jackson (OT) – 25 years old
Second undrafted player in this ranking! In any case, not chosen during the NFL draft because this Canadian was a second round choice of the Canadian Football League in 2021. Little used during his first two seasons, Alaric Jackson established himself in 2023 as a solid starter with the Rams.
He is the typical example of a serious player who progresses with his work:
“First of all, it’s thanks to God. But I also do my part including pilates, yoga and swimming. I also pay close attention to what I eat and the quality of my sleep. “, he told the Toronto Sun.
Although his performances are still irregular, his progression and his age make him a bet to try as a left tackle in the NFL.
The ideal destination: Los Angeles Rams
Alaric Jackson is at the end of his contract but the subtlety is that he is labeled as a Restricted Free Agent.
This means that if another franchise offers him a contract then the Los Angeles franchise can either match the offer or let him leave in exchange for a draft pick. Manager Les Snead could sign him with a second round tender for a maximum of $4.3M over a season and compensation if a choice in the 2nd round of the draft leaves.
Surprisingly in 2023, it is unlikely that the Rams will let this element of the future go, although they already have two expensive offensive tackles on the roster with Rob Havenstein and Joe Noteboom.
Player to avoid: Mekhi Becton (OT)
Injured for a season and a half, Mekhi Becton was back in 2023. With 12 penalties and 14 sacks conceded, he was in great difficulty! Arriving at the end of his contract because the Jets did not activate the 5th year option on his rookie contract, Mekhi Becton will have difficulty finding better than a one-year contract (prove it deal).
Other interesting players: Tyron Smith (OT), Mike Onwenu (OT), Trent Brown (OT), Lloyd Cushenberry (OC), Donovan Smith (OT), Duane Brown (OT), Kevin Dotson (OG), Erza Cleveland ( OG), Kevin Zeitler (OG), Jonah Williams (OT), Jermaine Eluemunor (OT), Dalton Risner (OG) etc.
