The original content and analysis produced by the PFR staff during the past week:
- Free agency officially opens on Thursday, and PFR’s Zach Links unveiled his first top 50 free agents list for the 2017 class, removing players given the franchise tag designation. With the cap rising to $167MM, it’s going to cost more than usual to procure top guards this year. And a player who would have flown well under the radar a year ago resides at No. 1.
- Zach also examined which franchise tag candidates received that distinction and which standouts will be entering free agency. More than one player received the exclusive tag this season, with Le’Veon Bell and Kirk Cousins begin given that designation.
- PFR’s The Beat series continued when Zach caught up with the Detroit News’ Justin Rogers to discuss the Lions’ status going into free agency.
- As the offseason progresses, PFR will assess each team by examining the top three needs on each respective roster. We covered three organizations last week: