4 overrated defensive players heading into NFL free agency

Free agency target Randy Gregory

It is no secret that in this modern, pass-happy NFL having a capable edge rusher is vital to defensive success. The Rams proved just that in the Super Bowl, as their daunting pass rush stifled Joe Burrow and the Bengals. While not a premier player at his position, Randy Gregory will likely still have a market based on the fact that he plays arguably the most important defensive position.

That all said, Gregory has been a classic case of “what could have been”, as the defender has never put it all together with the Cowboys. He has never played an entire season and has never had more than six sacks in a single season. On top of this, he will be 30 years old next season. Yet most are projecting him to earn a contract in the $12-14 million a season range.

Frankly put, Gregory has yet to put up a season worthy of that number. While fielding a capable edge rusher is important, dedicating that much money to an average pass rusher seems like a mistake. His pending free agency screams Dante Fowler, who had similar inconsistencies but was paid big money to join the Falcons which hasn’t panned out. Any team looking to give Gregory a big deal needs to be cautious, as his play has yet to warrant a big deal.