NFL Free Agency 2020: 10 Best remaining players in second wave
By Samuel Teets
6. Markus Golden, DE/OLB
Honestly, Markus Golden could not be a top 10 free agent right now — or he could deserve a top-five spot. It’s hard to tell considering his roller coaster of a career. Golden entered the NFL as a second-round pick in 2015. In 2016, he amassed 51 tackles, four forced fumbles, 12.5 sacks and 22 quarterback hits, but injuries shorted his 2017 season to four games.
In 2018, Golden never recaptured his magic and landed in New York last offseason on a new one-year deal. With the Giants, Golden returned to form. He tallied 72 tackles, 10 sacks, and 27 quarterback hits. However, teams don’t know how to evaluate Golden’s renewed success.
While his recent season borderlines Pro Bowl production, he’s only put up decent numbers in two of his five NFL seasons. Teams won’t pay top dollar for a player with his level of inconsistency.
5. Logan Ryan, CB
The former New England Patriot shattered all kinds of single-season career-highs in 2019. Logan Ryan set new standards for himself with 18 passes defensed, four forced fumbles, 4.5 sacks and 113 tackles. Ryan also intercepted four passes after not intercepting a single one in both 2017 and 2018.
When Malcolm Butler landed on injured reserve after nine games, Ryan stepped up for the Tennessee Titans. While he isn’t an ideal top cornerback, a desperate team could sign Ryan as their top cover man. However, it’s more likely the 29-year-old gets a new job as a No. 2 option.
Based on his production from last season, it’s surprising that Ryan is still on the market. He contributed to winning teams his entire career, and just wrapped up his most-complete season. Considering how the market looks now, Ryan will wait until after the draft to find a new home.