NFL Free Agency 2020: Top 10 offensive players remaining
By Samuel Teets
7. Delanie Walker, TE
The last time NFL fans saw Walker, he was still one of the best run-blocking tight ends in the league. However, the former Pro Bowler is losing the battle against his aging body and mounting injuries. After only missing four games during his first five seasons with the Tennessee Titans, Walker missed 24 games over the past two years.
In 2018, Walker broke his ankle during Tennessee’s season opener. He missed the remainder of the season. Last year, Walker appeared in seven games before landing on injured reserve because of issues with the ankle he broke in 2018. In March, the Titans cut Walker, clearing $6.4 million in cap space.
Walker made three consecutive Pro Bowl appearances from 2015 to 2017. During that time, he averaged 5.1 receptions and 58.6 yards per game. Over the past two seasons, those averages fell to 3.1 receptions and 33.4 yards per game. Nearing his 36th birthday, it seems highly unlikely that Walker will ever regain his peak form.
Nevertheless, a team looking for tight end depth should float a one or two-year deal out to Walker. Even if he doesn’t play a massive role in the passing game, maybe he can at least serve as a reliable blocker.
6. Demar Dotson, RT
Dotson entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and became the team’s starting right tackle by his third season. After ten seasons with the Buccaneers, Dotson is the best remaining right tackle in free agency.
Over the past three seasons, Dotson appeared in 41 games for the Buccaneers. Nearing his 35th birthday, health and consistency concerns could keep Dotson from signing a new contract until late in the offseason. The long-time Buccaneer began to show his age last year, but Dotson should become a one or two-year plug and play starter for a needy team.
When Pro Football Focus (subscription required) ranked the top 85 free agents back in early April, Dotson came in 18th. Jason Peters was the only offensive lineman to receive a higher ranking.