Recognizing that the power ranking was cut off at the top 25, we wanted to acknowledge the next tier of free-agent deals that were considered, but didn't make the grade. They represent No. 26-35.
26. MIN QB Matt Cassel
If Christian Ponder gets hurt in 2013, the Vikings will feel better about bringing Cassel in off of the bench as opposed to Joe Webb. Ponder should still retain the starter's job in Minnesota.
27. KC TE Anthony Fasano
Fasano has been a steady producer for the Miami Dolphins. This signing gives the Chiefs a pair of productive tight ends, as pairing Fasano with Tony Moeaki will place further stress on defenses. By bringing in Fasano, the Chiefs now have adequate insurance if Moeaki gets hurt again.
28. SD RB Danny Woodhead
Woodhead isn't as dynamic as ex-Chargers change-of-pace back Darren Sproles, but he is still an effective running back that will help San Diego's offense in 2013. Woodhead had a productive 2012, as he graded out as PFF's No. 10 running back.
29. KC DE Mike DeVito
Like Woodhead, DeVito graded out as the No. 10 player at his position in 2012 by PFF (3-4 defensive end). Better at stopping the run than he is at rushing the passer, DeVito will help shore up the Chiefs run defense.
30. TEN TE Delanie Walker
On the surface it seems like the Titans have replaced one tight end with upside (Jared Cook) for another (Walker). But Walker is much more than just a tight end. He is a thumper on special teams and is looking to take on a bigger role in the offense, compared to his role in San Francisco.
31. DET CB Chris Houston
Houston wound up as the No. 23 corner in the NFL in 2012 as per PFF. The Lions re-signed Houston to stabilize the secondary. With all of the talented receivers in the NFC North in Green Bay and Chicago, the Lions needed to keep Houston in town.
32. IND CB Greg Toler
Toler was another corner that graded out well at PFF (No. 27 in 2012). The Colts had issues with their pass defense in 2012, so Toler will provide an upgrade due to his strong coverage skills.
33. DEN CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie
DRC is moving to a team with a better front seven. That is important, because he isn't great at providing run support. His coverage skills are still more than adequate, which is why Denver signed him.
34. STL DE William Hayes
The Rams addressed their pass rush by bringing back Hayes to the team. Hayes graded out as the No. 15 4-3 defensive end in 2012 by PFF. He recorded seven sacks on the year, so he should prove to be an asset again in 2013.
35. DET S Glover Quin
The Houston Texans made signing Quin a priority in the 2013 offseason, but the Lions proved to Quin that they wanted him more. Quin will help to solve some of the secondary issues that have plagued Detroit in the past few years.
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