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Top 2016 NFL Free Agents That Shook The League

Trends January 13, 2025

Who are the 2016 NFL free agents?

The 2016 NFL free agents are a group of players who are no longer under contract with their teams and are free to sign with any team they choose. This year's free agent class is considered to be one of the strongest in recent memory, with a number of high-profile players available. Some of the most notable free agents include quarterback Brock Osweiler, running back Adrian Peterson, and wide receiver Alshon Jeffery.

The free agency period begins on March 9th, and teams will be looking to add talent to their rosters in order to improve their chances of winning a Super Bowl. The 2016 NFL free agent class is expected to have a major impact on the league, and it will be interesting to see where some of the biggest names end up.

Here is a table of some of the most notable 2016 NFL free agents:

Player	Position	Former Team
Brock Osweiler	Quarterback	Denver Broncos
Adrian Peterson	Running Back	Minnesota Vikings
Alshon Jeffery	Wide Receiver	Chicago Bears
Olivier Vernon	Defensive End	Miami Dolphins
Eric Berry	Safety	Kansas City Chiefs

The 2016 NFL free agent class is one of the strongest in recent memory, and it will be interesting to see where some of the biggest names end up. These players have the potential to make a major impact on their new teams, and they could be the difference between a Super Bowl victory and a disappointing season.

2016 NFL Free Agents

The 2016 NFL free agent class was one of the strongest in recent memory, with a number of high-profile players available. Some of the most notable free agents included quarterback Brock Osweiler, running back Adrian Peterson, and wide receiver Alshon Jeffery.

Quarterback
Running Back
Wide Receiver
Defensive End
Safety
Linebacker
Tight End

These players had the potential to make a major impact on their new teams, and they could be the difference between a Super Bowl victory and a disappointing season. For example, Brock Osweiler signed a four-year, $72 million contract with the Houston Texans, and he is expected to be their starting quarterback in 2016. Adrian Peterson signed a two-year, $11 million contract with the New Orleans Saints, and he is expected to be their starting running back in 2016. Alshon Jeffery signed a one-year, $9.5 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, and he is expected to be their starting wide receiver in 2016.

The 2016 NFL free agent class was one of the most active in recent memory, and it had a major impact on the league. A number of teams were able to improve their rosters by signing talented free agents, and this could lead to a more competitive season in 2016.

1. Quarterback

The quarterback is one of the most important positions in American football. He is responsible for leading the offense and making sure that the team is in the best position to score points. In the 2016 NFL season, there were a number of high-profile quarterbacks who were available in free agency, including Brock Osweiler, Colin Kaepernick, and Robert Griffin III.

The addition of these quarterbacks to the free agent market had a major impact on the league. A number of teams were looking for quarterbacks, and the availability of these players created a lot of competition for their services. This led to some quarterbacks signing big contracts, and it also gave some teams the opportunity to upgrade their quarterback position.

For example, the Houston Texans signed Brock Osweiler to a four-year, $72 million contract. Osweiler was the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos in 2015, and he was expected to be the Texans' starting quarterback in 2016. However, Osweiler struggled in 2016, and he was eventually benched in favor of Tom Savage.

The signing of Osweiler was a major disappointment for the Texans, but it is just one example of how the quarterback position can have a major impact on a team's success. When a team has a good quarterback, it can make a big difference in their ability to win games.

2. Running Back

Running backs are a key part of any NFL offense. They are responsible for carrying the ball, catching passes out of the backfield, and blocking for other players. In the 2016 NFL season, there were a number of high-profile running backs who were available in free agency, including Adrian Peterson, Lamar Miller, and Matt Forte.

Free agency impact
The availability of these running backs in free agency had a major impact on the league. A number of teams were looking for running backs, and the availability of these players created a lot of competition for their services. This led to some running backs signing big contracts, and it also gave some teams the opportunity to upgrade their running back position.
Top free agents
Some of the top running backs who were available in free agency in 2016 included Adrian Peterson, Lamar Miller, and Matt Forte. Peterson is a seven-time Pro Bowler and one of the most prolific running backs in NFL history. Miller is a rising star who has rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of the past three seasons. Forte is a versatile running back who can also catch passes out of the backfield.
Contract details
Some of the running backs who signed big contracts in free agency in 2016 included Adrian Peterson, who signed a two-year, $11 million contract with the New Orleans Saints, and Lamar Miller, who signed a four-year, $26 million contract with the Houston Texans.
Impact on teams
The addition of these running backs to the free agent market had a major impact on the league. A number of teams were able to improve their rosters by signing talented running backs, and this could lead to a more competitive season in 2016.

Running backs are a key part of any NFL offense, and the availability of high-profile running backs in free agency in 2016 had a major impact on the league. A number of teams were able to improve their rosters by signing talented running backs, and this could lead to a more competitive season in 2016.

3. Wide Receiver

Wide receivers are a crucial part of any NFL offense, and the 2016 NFL free agent class was loaded with talented wide receivers. Some of the top wide receivers available in free agency in 2016 included Alshon Jeffery, Kenny Britt, and Eric Decker.

Free agency impact
The availability of these wide receivers in free agency had a major impact on the league. A number of teams were looking for wide receivers, and the availability of these players created a lot of competition for their services. This led to some wide receivers signing big contracts, and it also gave some teams the opportunity to upgrade their wide receiver position.
Top free agents
Some of the top wide receivers who were available in free agency in 2016 included Alshon Jeffery, Kenny Britt, and Eric Decker. Jeffery is a Pro Bowl wide receiver who has been one of the most productive wide receivers in the NFL in recent years. Britt is a rising star who has shown a lot of potential in his first few seasons in the NFL. Decker is a veteran wide receiver who has been a reliable target for quarterbacks throughout his career.
Contract details
Some of the wide receivers who signed big contracts in free agency in 2016 included Alshon Jeffery, who signed a one-year, $9.5 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, and Kenny Britt, who signed a four-year, $32.5 million contract with the Cleveland Browns.
Impact on teams
The addition of these wide receivers to the free agent market had a major impact on the league. A number of teams were able to improve their rosters by signing talented wide receivers, and this could lead to a more competitive season in 2016.

Wide receivers are a key part of any NFL offense, and the availability of high-profile wide receivers in free agency in 2016 had a major impact on the league. A number of teams were able to improve their rosters by signing talented wide receivers, and this could lead to a more competitive season in 2016.

4. Defensive End

Defensive ends are responsible for rushing the passer and stopping the run. They are often one of the most important players on a defense, and the 2016 NFL free agent class was loaded with talented defensive ends. Some of the top defensive ends available in free agency in 2016 included Olivier Vernon, Jason Pierre-Paul, and Muhammad Wilkerson.

Pass rushers
One of the most important roles of a defensive end is to rush the passer. Defensive ends need to be able to get to the quarterback quickly and disrupt his passing lanes. In the 2016 NFL free agent class, there were a number of talented pass rushers available, including Olivier Vernon and Jason Pierre-Paul.
Run stoppers
In addition to rushing the passer, defensive ends also need to be able to stop the run. Defensive ends need to be able to hold their ground and prevent running backs from getting outside. In the 2016 NFL free agent class, there were a number of talented run stoppers available, including Muhammad Wilkerson.
Versatility
The best defensive ends are versatile players who can do both rush the passer and stop the run. In the 2016 NFL free agent class, there were a number of versatile defensive ends available, including Olivier Vernon and Muhammad Wilkerson.
Impact on teams
The addition of these defensive ends to the free agent market had a major impact on the league. A number of teams were able to improve their rosters by signing talented defensive ends, and this could lead to a more competitive season in 2016.

Defensive ends are a key part of any NFL defense, and the availability of high-profile defensive ends in free agency in 2016 had a major impact on the league. A number of teams were able to improve their rosters by signing talented defensive ends, and this could lead to a more competitive season in 2016.

5. Safety

In the context of the 2016 NFL free agent market, safeties played a significant role in shaping team strategies and player movement. Safeties are defensive backs responsible for providing the last line of defense against opposing offenses, offering coverage and support against both the pass and the run. Their versatility and impact make them highly sought-after free agents.

Pass Coverage
Safeties are often the primary defenders responsible for covering deep passes and preventing big plays. Their ability to read the quarterback's intentions and react quickly can make a significant difference in limiting an offense's effectiveness.
Run Support
In addition to pass coverage, safeties also play a crucial role in run support. They are often responsible for filling gaps in the defensive line and making tackles to prevent running backs from gaining significant yardage.
Big-Play Potential
Safeties have the potential to make big plays that can change the momentum of a game. They can intercept passes, force fumbles, and make tackles for loss. Their ability to create turnovers and generate scoring opportunities makes them valuable assets to any defense.
Leadership and Experience
Experienced safeties often provide leadership and guidance to younger players on the defense. Their knowledge of the game and ability to communicate effectively can help improve the overall performance of the defensive unit.

The availability of talented safeties in the 2016 NFL free agent market allowed teams to upgrade their defenses and improve their chances of success. Safeties like Eric Berry, Tashaun Gipson, and Reggie Nelson signed lucrative contracts with new teams, bringing their skills and experience to bolster their respective defenses.

6. Linebacker

Linebackers are a crucial component of any NFL defense, and the 2016 NFL free agent class was loaded with talented linebackers. Some of the top linebackers available in free agency in 2016 included Danny Trevathan, DeAndre Levy, and Dont'a Hightower.

Linebackers are responsible for a variety of tasks on defense, including rushing the passer, stopping the run, and covering receivers. They need to be athletic, strong, and intelligent players who can read the game and make quick decisions.

The addition of these linebackers to the free agent market had a major impact on the league. A number of teams were able to improve their defenses by signing talented linebackers, and this could lead to a more competitive season in 2016.

For example, the Denver Broncos signed Danny Trevathan to a four-year, $28 million contract. Trevathan is a versatile linebacker who can play both inside and outside linebacker. He is a good tackler and has a knack for making big plays.

The Detroit Lions signed DeAndre Levy to a four-year, $32 million contract. Levy is a Pro Bowl linebacker who is one of the best coverage linebackers in the NFL. He is also a good tackler and can rush the passer.

The New England Patriots signed Dont'a Hightower to a four-year, $35 million contract. Hightower is a versatile linebacker who can play both inside and outside linebacker. He is a good tackler and has a knack for making big plays.

The signing of these linebackers was a major coup for the Broncos, Lions, and Patriots. These players are all Pro Bowl caliber players who can make a significant impact on their respective defenses.

7. Tight End

Tight ends are a unique and versatile position in American football. They line up close to the offensive line, but they can be used in a variety of ways, including blocking, receiving, and running the ball. This makes them a valuable asset to any NFL team, and the 2016 NFL free agent class was loaded with talented tight ends.

Receiving
Tight ends are often used as receivers, and they can be a dangerous weapon in the passing game. They are typically bigger and stronger than wide receivers, which makes them difficult to cover. In the 2016 NFL free agent class, there were a number of talented tight ends available, including Jordan Reed and Jared Cook.
Blocking
Tight ends are also used as blockers, and they can be very effective in this role. They can help to protect the quarterback and open up running lanes for the running backs. In the 2016 NFL free agent class, there were a number of talented tight ends available who are known for their blocking abilities, including C.J. Fiedorowicz and Ladarius Green.
Versatility
The best tight ends are versatile players who can do both receiving and blocking. In the 2016 NFL free agent class, there were a number of talented tight ends available who are known for their versatility, including Jordan Reed and Jared Cook.
Impact on teams
The addition of these tight ends to the free agent market had a major impact on the league. A number of teams were able to improve their rosters by signing talented tight ends, and this could lead to a more competitive season in 2016.

Tight ends are a key part of any NFL offense, and the availability of high-profile tight ends in free agency in 2016 had a major impact on the league. A number of teams were able to improve their rosters by signing talented tight ends, and this could lead to a more competitive season in 2016.

FAQs on 2016 NFL Free Agents

The 2016 NFL free agency period was one of the most active in recent memory, with a number of high-profile players available. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about that period:

Question 1: Who were some of the top free agents available in 2016?

Some of the top free agents available in 2016 included quarterback Brock Osweiler, running back Adrian Peterson, wide receiver Alshon Jeffery, defensive end Olivier Vernon, and safety Eric Berry.

Question 2: What was the impact of the 2016 free agent class on the NFL?

The 2016 free agent class had a major impact on the NFL. A number of teams were able to improve their rosters by signing talented free agents, and this led to a more competitive season in 2016.

Question 3: Which teams were the most active in free agency in 2016?

Some of the most active teams in free agency in 2016 included the Houston Texans, New Orleans Saints, and Philadelphia Eagles.

Question 4: Which free agents signed the biggest contracts in 2016?

Some of the free agents who signed the biggest contracts in 2016 included Brock Osweiler (4 years, $72 million), Adrian Peterson (2 years, $11 million), and Alshon Jeffery (1 year, $9.5 million).

Question 5: What were some of the biggest surprises of the 2016 free agency period?

Some of the biggest surprises of the 2016 free agency period included the signings of Brock Osweiler by the Houston Texans and Adrian Peterson by the New Orleans Saints.

The 2016 NFL free agency period was one of the most active in recent memory, and it had a major impact on the league. A number of teams were able to improve their rosters by signing talented free agents, and this led to a more competitive season in 2016.

As we approach the 2023 NFL free agency period, it will be interesting to see how it compares to the active 2016 period and what impact it will have on the league.

Conclusion on 2016 NFL Free Agents

The 2016 NFL free agency period was one of the most active in recent memory, with a number of high-profile players available. The signings of these players had a major impact on the league, and it will be interesting to see how the 2023 NFL free agency period compares.

One of the key storylines of the 2016 free agency period was the movement of quarterbacks. Brock Osweiler, Colin Kaepernick, and Robert Griffin III were among the quarterbacks who were available, and their signings had a major impact on their respective teams.

Another key storyline was the movement of running backs. Adrian Peterson, Lamar Miller, and Matt Forte were among the running backs who were available, and their signings had a major impact on their respective teams.

The 2016 NFL free agency period was a time of great change and excitement. A number of teams were able to improve their rosters by signing talented free agents, and this led to a more competitive season in 2016. It will be interesting to see how the 2023 NFL free agency period compares and what impact it will have on the league.