One story in a series of free agents by position and which ones may warrant teams pursuing. Today - a look at fullbacks:
Richie Anderson, New York Jets (unrestricted): Anderson is not the traditional type of fullback, tough blocker that can get tough yards inside but is an effective pass-catching threat.
Zack Crockett, Oakland (unrestricted): Talk about maximized efficiency, of his 40 carries, 31 produced either a first down or touchdown. Crockett is a tough veteran backup that can get tough yards and be a solid lead blocker.
Marc Edwards, New England (unrestricted): Like most fullbacks, Edwards is not a big play threat with the ball in his hands but he has a variety of skills and is undoubtedly one of the more efficient fullbacks in all of football.
Sam Gash, Baltimore (unrestricted): Great last name for a fullback but the 33-year old’s skills have waned recently. Though he is aging and perhaps not a starter at this point of his career, Gash can still give a club a physical backup.
Brad Hoover, Carolina (restricted): One of the lesser known at his position since his team has had little success. Hoover may not be spectacular in any area but he will give a team solid production as a blocker, runner and receiver.
Rob Konrad, Miami (unrestricted): One of the best of the lot in the free agent market. Konrad is not the most physical lead blocker but is a versatile player who can run and catch consistently.
Joel Makovicka, Arizona (unrestricted): He does not contribute much as a runner or receiver but Makovicka is your man if you like the traditional bruising lead blocker.
Cecil Martin, Philadelphia (restricted): Martin is not a dominant player in any one area but will make some contributions as a receiver. His forte, however, is opening up holes as a lead blocker.
Lorenzo Neal, Cincinnati (unrestricted): Definitely the best fullback of this lot even though his age (31) is somewhat of a concern. Evening a declining Neal, however, is one of the best blockers in the game.
Jon Ritchie, Oakland (unrestricted): His name seldom appears in the box score and his role diminished as the Raiders employed more three-receiver sets. Ritchie carries the ball seemingly every leap year and can be an effective receiver. Ritchie is your man if you are looking for a dependable starter.
Jerald Sowell, New York Jets (unrestricted): A decent but not great contributor on offense but his biggest asset is as a special teams contributor.
Vince D’Adamo can be reached via e-mail at vdad7@yahoo.com