Don’t let the weird uncapped talk fool you. There will be plenty of top players changing locations this offseason. And ultimately, this will alter what teams do in the draft. Last week we talked some about how the Eagles’ quarterback situation will change the face of the draft. Here are six players who could have as big of an affect:
Six stars who will affect the draft
Vince Wilfork: The Patriots may put the franchise tag on Wilfork, but he has made it known he wants a long-term deal. New England has shown they don't mind trading aging stars. With so many teams needing quality 3-4 linemen, the price for Wilfork could be maybe as high as a second-round pick. Don't be shocked if New England trades Wilfork, but for a pick in the 2011 draft. The team has four of the first 53 picks this year. Adding an additional 2011 pick, to go with Oakland's first rounder from the Richard Seymour trade, would put New England into a great position.
Julius Peppers: Peppers wants out of Carolina. The Panthers might be fine with that considering that Peppers would get $21.8 million if he is franchised again. The catch is that Peppers is 30, but expects to get a big payday. There aren't a lot of teams that both need Peppers and can afford him. The Eagles need a pass rusher opposite Trent Cole and have the money. They have to be considered the frontrunners for Peppers.
LaDainian Tomlinson: He said he's not coming back to San Diego. But where will he go? Detroit? Chicago? Seattle? None of them? It's been widely discussed that Tomlinson isn't quite as dangerous as he once was, but there's still something there. The problem is that few playoff teams need a running back. Tomlinson may have to settle for money instead of a Super Bowl chance.
Darren Sharper: After a stellar 2009, Sharper will be an unrestricted free agent. In an offseason where unrestricted free agent options are sparse, Sharper should be a sought-after player. The Saints have a lot of quality restricted free agents that they may want to sign before Sharper, who is 34. For a team close to contending, Sharper could be an excellent two-year option at free safety.
Karlos Dansby: He's an unrestricted free agent. If your team needs an outside linebacker, expect Dansby to be associated with them. Dansby is far and away better than any linebacker in the draft and can still be a difference maker.
Aaron Kampman: Playing in the 3-4 clearly didn't work for Kampman. He struggled in 2009 and wants out of Green Bay. As an unrestricted free agent, Kampman will be a hot target. Make no mistake, when he can put his hand down and get after the quarterback, he's very good. From 2006-2008, Kampman had 37 sacks. He could be another option for Philadelphia, as well as Oakland and Chicago.
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