While training camp is less than a week away for most teams, the talk of the 2019 free agency season is well underway. This is because of the events that happened on July 16. That was the final day teams had to sign their franchise-tagged players to long-term deals. If not, then the player would play on a one-year tag deal. That day four players went unsigned. Los Angeles Rams safety, LaMarcus Joyner, Detroit Lions DL, Ziggy Ansah, Dallas Cowboys DL, DeMarcus Lawrence, and Pittsburgh Steelers RB, Le’Veon Bell. If not, re-signed after the 2018 season, they will all become free agents.
Lawrence and Bell will more than likely become free agents after the 2018 season. Bell expressed his displeasure with the franchise tag after the 2016 season and then again when he was tagged this offseason. Now, after the repeated low-ball offers, we will surely see Le’Veon Bell as the marquee free agent in 2019.
DeMarcus Lawrence said something similar after the Cowboys failed to sign him long-term. He said he would not play a second season under the franchise tag.
For #Cowboys DE DeMarcus Lawrence, his goal is to go out, play on the tag and earn a long-term deal in Dallas. Source said he will not play on a second consecutive tag in 2019.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 16, 2018
Meaning that if the Cowboys and he did not reach an agreement after 2018, he will enter the 2019 pool as well. He could be the marquee defensive free agent.
The possibility of these four joining the 2019 free agent pool is insane. The pool is already full of talent. Here are some names that could also be splashing around the 2019 market.
Jadeveon Clowney – LB, Houston Texans
Tyler Eifert – TE, Cincinnati Bengals
Khalil Mack – DE, Oakland Raiders
Tyrod Taylor – QB, Cleveland Browns
Clay Matthews – LB, Green Bay Packers
Randall Cobb – WR, Green Bay Packers
Sheldon Richardson – DT, Minnesota Vikings
Tyrann Mathieu – DB, Houston Texans
These are just a few of the many expiring contracts after 2018. It is easy to say that this could become one of the deepest free agent pools in a while. There will be several big names looking to get in on some of that big money.
How do you feel about this early look at the 2019 free agent pool? Would you splash around if you were an owner? Leave a comment below.
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