Another wide receiver is off the market, leaving teams still in need of top targets to try and pull in what is left on the market before the NFL Draft in May. With players like James Jones, Mario Manningham and Brandon LaFell all signed, the pool of second-tier receivers is getting smaller. Now, Kenny Britt finds himself in high demand as several teams work to get him in for a visit.
Manningham is the latest receiver off the market. NFL Network's Albert Breer reports the veteran has signed a one-year deal to return to the New York Giants who originally drafted him back in 2008. Manningham was considered one of the better complimentary receivers left on the market, leaving teams like the Carolina Panthers, Washington Redskins and Green Bay Packers high and dry.
Now Britt is the man in demand. The former Tennessee Titans receiver is starting to make his way around in free agency after waiting for other players to get signed. The New England Patriots were his first stop. Despite already signing Julian Edelman and LaFell, New England still wants one more player to round out their roster. Britt do well in Bill Belichick's offense, but the receiver left New England without a contract which likely means that opportunity is over.
The Green Bay Packers are in need of a few more receivers. James Jones just signed with the Oakland Raiders. Jermichael Finley is not coming back. The team has re-signed running back James Starks but needs more offensive fire power. While the Packers are considered a lock to draft someone early, Britt would do well as a rotational guy for quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The Packers have been busy re-signing their own guys, but Britt could be worth a look.
The Carolina Panthers could be Britt's last option. After getting turned down by Nicks and losing both LaFell and Steve Smith, the Panthers have Greg Olsen and a lot of uncertainty for Cam Newton in 2014. NFL.com reports the Panthers are trying to get Britt on the books for a visit, realizing they are lacking in the receiver category. Britt has leverage considering the buyer's market is shrinking. The Panthers could be desperate and give the receiver what he wants as far as contract terms go.
Britt will not rush signing on with a team, realizing he has the upper hand in negotiations as more players get signed. The veteran will strike a deal before the draft as he remains one of the best available at this point. his remaining competition of Lance Moore and maybe Santonio Holmes will battle it out for the remaining roster spots.
