The Top 10 Free Agents

The start of NFL free agency is just over a week away, so the fantasy football juices are starting to flow again. Restricted free agents like Derek Anderson are unlikely to change teams, but there should be numerous contracts signed in the weeks ahead that will have ramifications for the 2008 fantasy season. Here is my take on the top 10 offensive unrestricted free agents in terms of potential fantasy impact.

1. Michael Turner, RB, Chargers – Out of LaDainian Tomlinson’s shadow and into a starting role and top-20 fantasy running back status with another team.
2. Randy Moss, WR, Patriots – He’d be first on this list if I was convinced he was leaving New England and sure he’d put forth effort for his new team.
3. Julius Jones, RB, Cowboys – It will be interesting to see what he can do if he goes to a team that allows him to be the feature back rather than splitting carries.
4. Bernard Berrian, WR, Bears – After Moss, Berrian is the most talented, young wideout in this year’s class of free agents. A lot of teams need wide receiver help.
5. D.J. Hackett, WR, Seahawks – He was my favorite wide receiver sleeper heading into last year’s injury-marred campaign. Some team is going to get a steal.
6. Alge Crumpler, TE, Falcons – About a dozen teams have already contacted this five-time Pro Bowler. He’ll land a deal very quickly.
7. Chris Brown, RB, Titans – Injuries have prevented him from reaching his potential, but Brown is an explosive runner when given the chance.
8. DeShaun Foster, RB, Panthers – I’m more excited about DeAngelo Williams finally getting a chance to be an every-down back than I am about Foster, but someone will give DeShaun a chance to contribute.
9. Devery Henderson, WR, Saints – One of several Saints receivers who are unrestricted. Devery could be a starter for someone in 2008.
10. Byron Leftwich, QB, Falcons – Given the sorry state of starting quarterbacks, I’ll be surprised if Lord Byron doesn’t sign on for a starting gig.

For a complete list of all of the free agents that fantasy owners should give a crap about, go to the one I compiled on fantasyfootballchamps.com.