Kansas City safety Eric Berry is set to hit the Free Agency market during the offseason and will be highly coveted by numerous teams. Here are five teams that will show heavy interest in the playmaking defensive back.
Eric Berry is set to become a free agent in less than a month if the Kansas City Chiefs can’t get a long term deal done. Berry, who said he’ll sit out of the 2017 season, stated: “I just want what’s right. That’s it.” GM John Dorsey said that talks between the team and Berry’s representative have been “positive.” But Berry’s agent, Chad Speck, tweeted:
“I wouldn’t characterize it as positive, but we are talking. We’ve got a long way to go.”
With a long term deal not likely to come before free agency hits, there are several spots where All-Pro Safety Eric Berry could land.
Carolina Panthers
After Josh Norman’s departure, the Panthers defense suffered badly. The secondary is very young for Carolina, especially at the cornerback position. Adding Berry would put a solid veteran that could be the leader of that secondary. The thought of having Eric Berry, Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis all on the same team is scary.
Chicago Bears
The Bears defense struggled last season to create turnovers, especially in the passing game. Berry had four interceptions alone last season. Berry would have an immediate impact on that Chicago defense.
Indianapolis Colts
It’s no secret that the Colts defense has struggled over the past few seasons. Their secondary recorded eight interceptions in 2016 which was tied for second worst in the NFL. Berry will cost a lot of money but with the Colts having over 55 million in cap space, they will be able to make a run at the All-Pro Safety.
Tennessee Titans
The Tennessee Titans are expected to make a run at Eric Berry if he hits the open market. The Titans were ranked below league average when it came to total defense. Berry has elite ball hawking ability. His presence would turn this defense into a defense that other teams will have to respect.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa Bay allowed 23 points per game to opposing teams in 2016 which is slightly below the leagues average at 22. Buccaneers are in need of an everyday leader on that defense. Which is exactly what Eric Berry would bring exactly that to the team. With Tampa Bay having over 64 million in cap space, expect them to be heavily involved trying to lure Berry to Tampa.
