2014 NFL Free Agency: Offensive X-factors

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Oct 20, 2013; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers tight end Jermichael Finley (88) reacts after scoring a touchdown in the 1st quarter against the Cleveland Browns at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Tight Ends

In recent years, the tight end position has been completely transformed. More and more, teams are rolling out two tight end packages and splitting their tight ends out wide. The position now sports some of the games most dangerous weapons. With Jimmy Graham now tagged, the field of players isn’t quite as strong, but there are still a few good players out there waiting to be signed.

Jermichael Finley

With 7 years of experience under his belt, Jermichael Finley is certainly a veteran. He’s not the best run blocker, but his abilities to catch the football outweigh that negative. When healthy, Finley is a difference maker. If Finley can play a full season, it’s not crazy to think he’s capable of surpassing 700 receiving yards.

I think he’s worth a 1-year “prove it to me”deal.

Garrett Graham
Last season was a coming out party for Garrett Graham. The tight end more than doubled his yardage from the prior year. Graham finished the year with 545 yards and 5 touchdowns on 49 receptions. Those are solid numbers for a tight end.Graham’s emergence as a pass catcher is evident, but he’s also a decent blocker. I think Graham is a solid option if your team is in need of a tight end.

Jeff Cumberland

Cumberland has produced two decent seasons in a row. He hasn’t been fantastic, but he hasn’t been bad. Seeing as how he used to be a receiver, i’d say he’s progressed pretty well. I think Cumberland would have progressed a little faster if he had a better quarterback, though. It’s hard to become a good pass catching tight end when you don’t have a good quarterback.

Now that his contract’s up, Cumberland has as an opportunity to sign with a team that has a more stable quarterback situation. I think a new team with a good, veteran quarterback would be good for his development.

Well there’s my list of offensive X-factors! Be sure to check back this week for the list of defensive free agent X-factors!

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