The NFL free agent class for 2016 has some notable names hitting the market, including Sam Bradford, Alshon Jeffery, Doug Martin, Travis Benjamin, Jermaine Kearse and Lamar Miller.
Bradford is the top name at the quarterback position, while Lamar Miller, Martin and Matt Forte headline the running backs. Jeffery, Benjamin and Kearse are the top wide receivers on the market, while Antonio Gates, Ladarius Green and Dwayne Allen are among the top tight ends. The running back position should receive some attention from teams this year and players like Miller and Forte could end up in new uniforms for 2016.
Miller is expected to be the top running back target on the market, as reports have Doug Martin likely staying with the Buccaneers on a new contract. Miller will be just 25 when next season starts and he does not have much wear and tear on his body after the way the Dolphins have utilized him over the past three seasons. Miller was frustrated last season with his use and he said to James Walker at ESPN that "scheme and fit" would be factors in where he signs for next season.
Adam Gase is bringing a new offense to Miami and that could be more appealing to Miller. The Dolphins have a tough cap situation and that could keep the team from signing the running back in free agency. Miller rushed for 872 yards last season after putting up nearly 1100 yards in 2014 and over the past two seasons he has combined to score 16 rushing touchdowns.
Forte is not expected to return to the Chicago Bears and he could be a potential target for numerous teams, including the Patriots, Raiders, Dolphins and Giants. Forte is one of the best in the league at catching the ball out of the backfield and while he had his lowest total numbers last season since joining the Bears, he is still a very productive player. Chris Ivory, Ronnie Hillman and LeGarrette Blount are also hitting the market and could get attention from teams in free agency.
Jeffery is the top receiver set to hit the market, but he is expected to remain with the Chicago Bears for next season. Past Jeffery, players like Jermaine Kearse, James Jones and Travis Benjamin could get attention from teams. Benjamin and Kearse each put up career numbers last season, while Jones showed that he still has gas left in the tank with a productive season in Green Bay.
