**Each list will be continually updated as players are signed and released throughout the offseason.**
1. Rolando McClain, Dallas, 26
A resurgent McClain finished second in Comeback Player of the Year voting behind New England tight end Rob Gronkowski. His play in the middle of Dallas’ defense was just what the Cowboys needed after losing Sean Lee for the season. Like Bruce Carter, Dallas may be too tied up with other players to make a huge run at McClain. Unlike Carter, McClain probably won’t need much to re-sign after an inexplicable double retirement and injuries that saw him miss three games last season have likely lowered his value.
2. Lance Briggs, Chicago, 34
Briggs is probably coming back as he doesn’t seem ready to retire. Whether or not that season is in Chicago is hard to tell. Chicago could be moving to a 3-4 defense after hiring Vic Fangio who previously coached the 49ers. He has enough size to play inside linebacker in that style of defense but may not want to commit to such a new system.
3. Brandon Spikes, Buffalo, 27
A pure inside linebacker and quality blitzer, Spikes has seen success in both 4-3 and 3-4 defenses. Probably a two-down player wherever he goes, he can certainly boost some team’s run defense. After being jettisoned by the Patriots and now being a Bills free agent, maybe Spikes tries his hand for another AFC East squad. The Dolphins and Jets may be interested.
4. Casey Matthews, Philadelphia, 26
The ‘little’ Matthews isn’t quite as known but he certainly flashes in moments. He displays a high football IQ by diagnosing play quickly and displays quick twitch agility by darting towards ball carriers to make plays. A bit undersized, Casey Matthews won’t command much attention but does provide value, as he is comfortable in a variety of positions and a stalwart on special teams.
5. Mason Foster, Tampa Bay, 26
6. DJ Williams, Chicago, 33
The eleven-year veteran has spent time as both an inside and outside linebacker. Recently, he’s played inside linebacker, which includes last season for the Bears. Williams is still an athletic player. The move to a 3-4 defense in Chicago could negatively impact a desire to return.
7. Andrew Jackson, Indianapolis, 23
8. Phillip Wheeler, Miami, 30
9. Nate Irving, Denver, 27
10. Dane Fletcher, New England, 28
11. Geno Hayes, Jacksonville, 27
12. Darryl
Sharpton, Chicago, 31
13. Chase Blackburn, Carolina, 32
14. Jason Trusnik, Miami, 31
15. Stevenson Sylvester, Buffalo, 27
16. Larry Dean, Buffalo, 26
17. Ashlee Palmer, Detroit, 26
18. Desmond Bishop, San Francisco, 30
19. Will Herring, St. Louis, 31
20. Colin McCarthy, Tennessee, 26
16. Larry Dean, Buffalo, 26
17. Ashlee Palmer, Detroit, 26
18. Desmond Bishop, San Francisco, 30
19. Will Herring, St. Louis, 31
20. Colin McCarthy, Tennessee, 26
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