CORNERBACKS
BIG TICKET PLAYERS Byron Jones, Cowboys
Ultra-athletic and versatile corner who has also started at safety, Jones is a true shutdown corner. Although he doesn’t intercept many passes, there’s a lot of value and stability with him. Jones is expected to command between $16 million and $17 million per year.
James Bradberry, Panthers
Free from the franchise tag, Bradberry is expected to cash in as one of the top free agents. Bradberry could wind up in the $15 million per year range, or better, as a big, physical outside presence.
Chris Harris Jr., Broncos
Harris’ market value may be depressed some by his age and lack of recent big plays. The Broncos aren’t planning to resign him. Harris should still land a fairly solid contract with the Raiders among those rumored to be most interested. Harris struggled in man-to-man coverage last season outsiide.
SOLID VALUES Logan Ryan, Titans
The Titans aren’t re-signing the former Patriots starter. Ryan has a ton of experience and is extremely competitive. His leadership skills are regarded as a plus.
Kendall Fuller, Chiefs
Fuller’s interception was one of the biggest plays in the Super Bowl. That, along with his ability to play safety, should make him an attractive commodity to teams
Jimmy Smith, Ravens
Smith has prototypical size and has the ability to shadow fast receivers.
Trae Waynes, Vikings
Former first-round pick has rebounded from a rough start to his career. Has gotten better every season.
Prince Amukamara, Bears
Nickel corner can be signed anytime after being cut by Chicago and won’t count against the compensatory draft pick formula.
Darqueze Dennard, Chiefs
Technique-sound nickel back’s durability issues affects his value. He has missed 10 of his past 32 games.
Ronald Darby, Eagles
If not for his persistent health issues, Darby would be one of the most sought after corners on the market.
Bashaud Breeland, Chiefs
Underrated signing a year ago who played 1,104 defensive snaps overall. He played very well in a Super Bowl victory.
OTHERS TO WATCH
Eli Apple, Saints; Jalen Mills, Eagles); Darryl Worley, Raiders
TEXANS’ NEEDS
Extremely high. The Texans accomplished one goal by re-signing Bradley Roby but they still need to draft a corner. Gareon Conley is a solid returning No. 2 starter, but Lonnie Johnson struggled as a rookie after getting off to a decent start to the season. Vernon Hargreaves was released and Johnathan Joseph, 35, is a free agent who was benched at the end of last season. This is the weakest position on the defending AFC South champions’ roster. They need an influx of talent.