Once the initial waves of the NFL free agency period die down, there are usually a few stragglers who find new homes within a matter of weeks. But this year, I wouldn’t characterize any of the remaining edge pass rush names as “scraps.”
I’d go as far as to say that I’m actually shocked some of these productive edge dynamos haven’t been signed yet, given their remaining power and established pedigree. Having an edge pass rush is one of those pro football things you never possess quite enough of. You’re probably still shorthanded even when you think you have enough to give offensive tackles sleepless nights.
But, after Super Bowl 56 champion Leonard Floyd finally signed with the Super Bowl-contending Buffalo Bills on Monday, the edge market should start to slowly fall into place within a matter of weeks. A stat-stuffer like Floyd setting the table with a one-year deal gives everyone else a precedent to work with.
Here’s a look at five quality edge pass rushers who could still have a valuable place on a championship contender.