The NFL free agent class for 2016 has names like Travis Benjamin, Brock Osweiler, Marvin Jones, Alshon Jeffery, Percy Harvin, Rishard Matthews and Lamar Miller hitting the market.
The salary cap is expected to increase significantly this offseason and that could spark some teams to spend big on players. The running back position has a deep list of names heading to the market, including Matt Forte, Chris Ivory, Lamar Miller, Ronnie Hillman, Doug Martin and LeGarrette Blount. There are a number of teams expected to target the position this winter, including the Dolphins, Giants, Cowboys, Raiders and 49ers.
Brock Osweiler and Sam Bradford are the top quarterbacks heading to the market, as Kirk Cousins is expected to stay with the Redskins. Bradford likely will get some interest from the Eagles about returning, but reports have the possibility of Bradford walking in free agency. Teams like the Browns, 49ers, Texans and Rams are expected to target QBs in free agency this offseason. Osweiler is in an interesting spot, as the Broncos likely want him back and could franchise him if he tries to hit the open market. Sidenote: the Broncos may have to use the franchise tag on Von Miller, meaning teams could get shots at Osweiler.
Peter King at the MMQB writes that he expects the Cleveland Browns to at least check out Osweiler as a free agent option. The team has the number two pick in the NFL draft and still could take a quarterback, but if that player can't start immediately, the Browns may want an upgrade over Josh McCown. Osweiler proved that he can handle starting in the NFL this year and while he could command a decent contract, he will not be nearly as expensive as Bradford.
The running back position should get some major attention with players like Miller, Forte and Ivory on the market. Forte is not expected to return to the Bears and could be a potential option for teams like the Patriots or Cowboys. Miller may end up too expensive for Miami and could also be an option for the Cowboys, as they are expected to add some depth with Darren McFadden on the roster. Ivory is expected to leave the Jets and also could be a fit.
The wide receiver position is headlined by Alshon Jeffery, but since he is expected to stay in Chicago, players like Percy Harvin, Rishard Matthews and Marvin Jones could see increased attention. Benjamin also could be an option for teams, but he is expected to stay in Cleveland on a new contract. Jones and Kearse both have said to the media that they are not planning to take hometown discounts to stay with their current teams. Jones could be a top target for teams on the market after putting up career numbers last season with 65 catches for 816 yards and four touchdowns.
