Several teams have expressed interest in the services of free agent safety LaRon Landry including the San Francisco 49ers, Arizona Cardinals and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, according to NFL.com's Ian Rapoport.
LaRon Landry rumors: 49ers, Cardinals, Buccaneers interested
Coming off his first Pro Bowl season, several teams are interested in hard-hitting free agent safety LaRon Landry.
Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports
Landry had a breakout season in 2012, and he was rewarded with his first Pro Bowl appearance. In his first year with the New York Jets, he compiled 99 tackles, eight passes defended, four forced fumbles, three tackles for loss and two interceptions. Landry was a key contributor to the Jets secondary, which ranked second in the NFL against the pass. Opposing teams averaged just 189.8 yards per game through the air against New York.
The 49ers defense was excellent against the pass last season, ranking fourth in the league by allowing 200.2 yards per game. However, San Francisco may need an upgrade at safety. Donte Whitner is locked in with the team through next season, but he had some issues in coverage last season. Dashon Goldson is going to test the free agent market, and may sign elsewhere.
Gang Green Nation: Should Landry stay or go?
Arizona was also good in pass defense, ranking right behind the 49ers and giving up 200.8 yards per game. The Cardinals had to cut veteran safety Adrian Wilson to get under the salary cap, so they have an open spot for Landry.
Unlike the 49ers and Cardinals, the Buccaneers’ pass defense was truly abysmal in 2012. Tampa Bay ranked dead last in the NFL, allowing 297.4 yards per game through the air. The entire Tampa Bay secondary needs an overhaul, and bringing in Landry would be a good start for the team.
More in the NFL:
See More:
