Bengals' Boyd, Texans' Nelson, and Cornerback Jackson Among Top Free Agent Targets

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ICARO Media Group
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19/03/2024 22h18

In the whirlwind of the NFL offseason, several notable players have hit the free agent market, attracting attention from teams in need of reinforcements. Among them are Cincinnati Bengals' wide receiver Tyler Boyd, Houston Texans' cornerback Desmond Nelson, and cornerback Jackson, all of whom bring valuable experience and skills to the table.

Boyd, a former No. 1 receiver for the Bengals, saw his production dip in recent years with the emergence of Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase. In the 2021 regular season, Boyd caught 67 passes for 828 yards and five touchdowns, contributing to the Bengals' AFC championship win. Over the past two seasons, he amassed a combined 125 receptions for 1,429 yards and seven touchdowns, showcasing his reliable hands and playmaking ability.

Nelson, considered one of the top free agents by NFL analyst Pete Prisco, played a crucial role in the Texans' AFC South victory last season. Starting in 16 of his 17 regular season games, Nelson displayed his expertise in coverage by breaking up 12 passes and tying his career-high with four interceptions. When targeted, Nelson allowed just 61.4% of passes to be completed, showcasing his ability to limit opposing offenses.

Likewise, Jackson, another free agent on Prisco's radar, exhibited impressive performances as the primary defender in coverage in 2023. Ranked 14th among 39 players with over 80 passes thrown their way, Jackson maintained a passer rating of 68.6. He recorded one interception while conceding only two passing touchdowns and 753 passing yards. Although his coverage grade of 45.9 by Pro Football Focus in 2023 was not the highest, Jackson's potential impact should not be underestimated.

In other news, quarterback Ryan Tannehill, the former second-round pick of the Dallas Cowboys in 2018, is currently available on the market. After losing his starting position to Will Levis in 2023, Tannehill is now seeking a backup role with a team in need of an experienced signal-caller. Turning 36 years old on July 27, Tannehill's track record suggests he could thrive in a similar capacity as Joe Flacco did for the Cleveland Browns last season when he led the team to the playoffs as a backup.

Lastly, center Williams, recovering from a season-ending ACL tear suffered in Week 14, is expected to take some time before deciding on his future. Despite his injury setback, Williams' market value remains intriguing, considering his talent and potential impact on the offensive line. His agent, Drew Rosenhaus, described the injury as "pretty significant" and indicated that Williams will prioritize his recovery before signing with a new team.

As the free agency period heats up, teams will be closely monitoring the availability and potential contributions of these players. Boyd, Nelson, Jackson, Tannehill, and Williams all bring unique skill sets and experience to the table, making them prime targets for teams looking to bolster their rosters. It remains to be seen where they will land, but one thing is for sure — their impact on the field will be eagerly anticipated by football enthusiasts and fans alike.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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