Alshon Jeffery is the best wide receiver entering free agency in 2016, but the Chicago Bears have no intentions of letting him go. That means any team in need of help at the position will look at players like Travis Benjamin, Rishard Matthews and Jermaine Kearse for help. Marvin Jones is another player that is preparing to get a lot of attention once the NFL offseason officially begins and he is excited to test his worth on the market.
While Jones is not ruling out a return to the Cincinnati Bengals, he is excited to explore options with other teams and see what is offered. While speaking with NFL Media's Scott Hanson, Jones said that he wants to look at all angles when it comes to free agency. He has no interest in accepting a hometown discount to remain with the Bengals and intends on getting the most money that he can.
"I love Cincinnati," Jones said, via NFL Media's Scott Hanson. "...But at the same time, I am a free agent. It wouldn't be good for me not to test the waters a little bit. It's just an exciting process."
Jones is not a No.1 receiver. This year he caught 65 passes for 816 yards and four touchdowns while running alongside AJ Green. According to Spotrac.com, Jones is worth a contract of up to four years and $20 million to $22 million. That is very manageable for a team as many franchises are looking for receiver help in 2016. So where could he land?
The Cleveland Browns are the obvious first choice considering Hue Jackson is now the head coach. However, while Jones will chase money, he will also want to win. The Browns are not set up for success right now given their quarterback situation. Considering how many other teams will show interest in Jones, Cleveland is not expected to win him over.
The Atlanta Falcons could be an option. The team has a No.1 in Julio Jones, but Roddy White is no longer a guaranteed No.2 threat. Jones would be a perfect partner to run alongside Jones with Matt Ryan throwing passes. The Falcons can afford to give him the contract he wants while also being better suited to win now and not later.
The Detroit Lions could be looking for receiver help. The team is preparing to see Calvin Johnson retire this season which leaves Golden Tate and TJ Jones as their best options for Matthew Stafford. The Lions are expected to try and pursue someone in the draft, but Jones gives them an immediate starter. The same can be said for the Patriots who according to the Boston Herald might be releasing Danny Amendola for a younger version of the receiver. That is Jones who was thrive with Julian Edelman and Tom Brady. The Dallas Cowboys also need help for Dez Bryant.
Jones will find a team willing to pay him the money he wants. The Bengals would be wise to offer up a competitive contract as Jones excelled with Andy Dalton and Green. However, they run the risk of losing him to the market.
