The crazy time of year that is free agency is fast approaching, so KCChiefs.com has you covered with a 30-day free agency look, highlighting the 30 most intriguing free agents or players who could be released/traded during the offseason.
You may have noticed, there are no restricted free agents on the list, largely because they rarely leave their current teams. None of the reports are indicative of the Chiefs plans for the 2013 free agency season.
DAY 20 of 30
Dwight Freeney played for the Indianapolis Colts, for the last 11 years. However, the unrestricted free agent is looking for a new home, where he can chase down QBs, en route to possibly, another Super Bowl opportunity. Let's take a closer look at what has made Dwight Freeney an imposing defensive end.
Name: Dwight Freeney
Position: DE
Height: 6'1
Weight: 268
College: Syracuse
Born: February 19, 1980
Age: 33
Experience: 11 seasons
Drafted: 1st Round-11th overall in 2002, by the Indianapolis Colts
STRENGTHS:
Numbers Don't Lie
Career stat line: 163 games (143 starts), 267 tackles, 40 assists, 107.5 sacks, 14 passes defensed, 44 forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries
Technique
The seven-time Pro Bowler has an incredible first step and a potent spin move that leaves the opposition, often times, at his mercy.
Leadership
Freeney is a well-respected veteran and would provide locker room leadership, especially as a former Super Bowl XLI champion.
Freeney also played in Super Bowl XLIV, where his Colts fell to the New Orleans Saints, 31-17.
WEAKNESSES:
Injuries
A high ankle sprain caused Freeney to miss three games, during the 2012 campaign.
Freeney was limited during Super Bowl XLI, suffering from a torn ligament in his right ankle, but did recover a fumble, during the big win.
Age
At 33-years old, Freeney is coming off of his worst statistical year, including 10 solo tackles, five sacks and one forced fumble, in 14 games.
However, last season was the first in which the Colts implemented a 3-4 scheme, under new head coach Chuck Pagano. This change may have attributed to Freeney's lack of production, as he was playing outside linebacker for the first time in his career. Freeney played 227 run snaps in 2012.
FINAL TAKE:
Sure, age is a factor, but for all that Freeney brings to the table, he could be a worthwhile investment. I've interviewed Freeney in the past, when he shared the kinds of things he does to take care of his body, (nutrition and chiropractic treatments).
I believe Freeney has the dedication and if given an opportunity, I think he'll make the most of it.
