Before the free agency, DNA of Sports offers you its traditional Top 5 free agents which will be available at each position on March 13. Speech to the defense with the linemen.
Decisive against the passing game and fundamental against the run, the first defensive curtain can make a squad better. If no major star will shake the market, excellent players are nevertheless available. The dollars will rain, but will it still be necessary to spend them wisely?
1 – Frank Clark (DE) – 29 years old
2022 stats: 39 tackles including 7.5 for loss, 5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 1 covered fumble
It is the surprise guest of the last days. Released by the Chiefs with whom he won two titles, Frank Clark has the opportunity to land a big contract in a team looking for a leader on their defensive line. If he does not display the most impressive statistics in his position, the pass rusher is nonetheless very valuable and decisive in important moments, especially in the playoffs.
The ideal destination: Cincinnati Bengals
Despite a quarterback-hunting duo that looks great, the Bengals only finished 29th in sack count. A difficulty to put the pressure which harms a defense otherwise very correct and especially in progress. Adding Clark would bring in that extra weight threat that could give more space to other players. And the little extra in January to make the difference.
2 – Javon Hargrave (DL) – 30
Stats 2022: 60 tackles including 4.5 for loss, 11 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 2 smokables covered
One of the pillars of the frightening line of the Eagles, Javon Hargrave chained the seasons of high level and 2022 was his peak. He is one of the big names to follow during this free agency. At 30, the former Steeler is at the top of his game and has established himself as one of the very best in his position. As good against the run as in his ability to disrupt the pocket, a nice contract awaits him for a team looking to transform its trenches.
The ideal destination: Seattle Seahawks
Surprising guest of the playoffs, Seattle only asks to confirm. And one of the weak points identified to be strengthened during the spring is the inside of the line. With 150 yards conceded on the ground per game, the contribution of Hargrave would be a major reinforcement in the field. The franchise has leeway to make an offer that meets the player’s expectations.
3 – Dre’Mont Jones (DT) – 26 years old
2022 stats: 47 tackles including 8 for loss, 6.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble
He is not the best known of his position, but he will be one of the names to follow from March 13. In constant progression since his draft, Dre’Mont Jones has become a major player in the excellent defense of the Broncos. Able to shine in different positions and bring danger from inside or outside, his rating will be high and the contract lucrative.
The ideal destination: Arizona Cardinals
JJ Watt retired, Zach Allen out of contract, the defensive line of the Desert Birds needs to be renewed. Now led by former Eagles defensive mastermind Jonathan Gannon, Arizona needs a rethink and that will come through the trenches, Philly’s main strength last season. Jones has the perfect profile to be the new coach’s base man.
4 – Yannick Ngakoue (DE) – 27 years old
2022 stats: 29 tackles including 4.5 for loss, 9.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble
He already seems to have rolled his bump through the league and yet the pass rusher is only 27 years old. And in his 7 years in the league, he never made less than 8 sacks in a season. After having chained the short contracts, the player of Martiniquaise origin deserves to be rewarded.
The ideal destination: Indiannapolis Colts
After 5 teams in 4 years, Ngakoue could benefit from settling down in a sustainable way in a city. Under the orders of Gus Bradley retained as defensive coordinator, he evolves in an ideal system. For the Colts, it is the guarantee of keeping a leader, experienced and efficient to start their new cycle.
5 – Zach Allen (DE) – 25 years old
2022 stats: 47 tackles including 11 for loss, 5.5 sacks
In the shadow of JJ Watt, Zach Allen grew up. Author of his best season in 2022, the versatile lineman from Arizona is following an upward and constant progression curve and is entering the best part of his career and should bring a lot to his future employer. Excellent for pushing his opponents and going to catch the leather carrier behind the line of advantage, he can evolve everywhere on the line.
The ideal destination: Atlanta Falcons
Always looking for reinforcements in a defensive squad that has suffered for too long. The Falcons have the means to strengthen this offseason. Surrounded by promising youngsters on the front seven and the ever-performing veteran Grady Jarret, Allen could fit in perfectly and take it to the next level.
Other interesting names: Dalvin Tomlinson (DT), Jadeveon Clowney (DE), Sheldon Rankins (DT), Shy Tuttle (DT), Fletcher Cox (DT), Matt Ioannidis (DT), Larry Ogunjobi (DT), Samson Ebukam (DE) ), A’Shawn Robinson (DT)
