NFL free agency begins this week as many teams look to improve their rosters by bringing in veterans to fill some of their weaknesses. Plenty of players will be evaluated and considered, as general managers must decide who to bring in at the right price.
But not every player will be worth signing, or even considering. Some free agents have struggled, dealt with injuries or are getting old and may not live up to expectations. Others may turn into a liability while making plenty of money, which could leave some teams dealing with disappointing free agent signings.
Here is a list of 10 free agents NFL teams should avoid this offseason.
10. QB Ryan Fitzpatrick
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY SportsThere is a reason why Ryan Fitzpatrick has played for four different teams in as many years. He’s been in the top 10 in interceptions thrown three times in the past five seasons. Though there aren't many good quarterbacks available in free agency, there are better options out there for teams to explore.
9. RB Arian Foster
Getty ImagesInjuries have derailed Arian Foster’s career lately. He hasn’t played a full season since 2012, missing 23 games over the last three years. Plus, he turns 30 right before the regular season kicks off. His starting days in the NFL could be limited.
8. WR Brandon LaFell
Maddie Meyer - Getty ImagesAfter having the best season of his career in 2014, Brandon LaFell is coming off one of the worst seasons he's ever had. After missing the first five games, LaFell caught 37 passes for 515 yards and could not find the end zone.
7. WR Marques Colston
Sean Gardner-Getty ImagesSince entering the league in 2006, Marques Colston has had a prolific career, as he is 241 receiving yards away from the 10,000-yard mark for his career. He's coming off single-season career lows in catches (45), yards (520) and touchdowns (four) and will turn 33 in June.
6. WR Roddy White
Getty ImagesMuch like Colston, White's great career recently took a turn when he had a quiet 2015 season. He will turn 35 midway through the season and might have just a few suitors in free agency. He may not start on most NFL rosters today.
5. TE Antonio Gates
Denny Medley-USA TODAY SportsAntonio Gates has been Philip Rivers’ best target over the past decade, but injuries have slowed the tight end down lately. He will be 36 this offseason and might not be the tight end he once was.
4. T Russell Okung
Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY SportsRussell Okung may be arguably one of the more talented offensive linemen in the game today. Though he is only 28, injuries have prevented him from reaching his high potential. He is still seeking his first 16-game season.
3. T Jake Long
Rich Schultz-Getty ImagesJake Long is a former No. 1 overall draft pick who went to the Pro Bowl the first four years of his career. But he couldn't continue his impressive resume as he found himself as a backup in Atlanta. Long might be worth pursuing, but not as a primary tackle.
2. DE/OLB Mario Williams
Timothy T. Ludwig - USA TODAY SportsDespite being on a Bills team with stacked pass-rushers, Mario Williams still found a way to collect double-digit sacks from 2012 through 2014. But he took a huge step back in 2015, finishing with five sacks in 15 games played. Williams' best years are behind him.
1. CB Brandon Carr
Getty ImagesBrandon Carr is not a free agent, or at least not yet. Reports say he is expected to be cut soon by the Dallas Cowboys. Carr never lived up to expectations when Dallas signed him in free agency in 2011. His last interception came in November of 2013 and has been a favorite cornerback for quarterbacks to pick on.
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