[UPDATED March 6, 2012 at 4:03pm: PFW has updated their rankings to account for players that have re-signed with their current team. The past rankings are struck-through below, with the new ranking next to it.]
The NFL's 2012 Free Agency period begins one week from today. As the March 13 start to the signing freenzy gets closer, Pro Football Weekly has taken a look at all of the available players, and ranked the top 100 free agents available. From that list, the Miami Dolphins could possibly lose three of the top 100.
The top Miami free agent available is nose tackle Paul Soliai. Ranked at the 28th 24th position, the 28-year-old unrestricted free agent was a Pro Bowler this year after the Dolphins franchise tagged him last year. Of Soliai, PFW writes:
"The Dolphins are moving to a 4-3 scheme, which could open the door for Soliai, who received the franchise tag from Miami in 2011, to go elsewhere. This run-stuffing interior lineman fits best in a 3-4 scheme."
Next, the Dolphins find defensive end Kendall Langford on the list at position + 43. At 26-years-old, Langford will draw interest on the open market, but the Dolphins should make a push to re-sign him. PFW writes about Langford:
"Solid against the run, the 6-6, 295-pound Langford wasn't as productive in 2011 as he had been in past seasons, but he certainly could hold appeal to clubs employing 3-4 fronts. He might be on the underrated side."
The final member of the Dolphins trio on the top 100 free agents list is quarterback Chad Henne. The former second round draft pick comes in at 82 77. The Dolphins have no plans to bring back the 27-year-old, but he will draw interest from other teams looking for a veteran backup, or someone to push an incumbent starter. PFW writes:
"A shoulder injury ended Henne's 2011 season after four games. The knocks on him are his accuracy and ability to come through in clutch situations. However, he did play well in two of his three full games a season ago, and he could have the upside to develop further. He likely will get a fresh start elsewhere."
Not included in PFW's rankings is quarterback Peyton Manning. Manning is expected to be released in the next few days by the Indianapolis Colts, freeing them from his $28 million roster bonus.