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Can these ex-NFL stars find spots in 2009?

Harrison, James, Taylor among veterans still seeking a roster spot

Image: Edgerrin JamesAP file
Edgerrin James, 31, wants to keep playing in the NFL, but which team will take a chance on an aging back without much speed?

Jon Runyan, OT

The situation: The Eagles swiftly replaced Runyan, 35, with Stacy Andrews in March, and the veteran tackle is still rehabbing after offseason knee surgery. At 6-7, 330 pounds, he can be a physical presence but will need to prove his health.

Scout's take: "He's lost a lot of mobility, and he was never a tremendous athlete. He's always been that road-grading right tackle. The question is, do you give him more help? Do you want to have the running back constantly chipping to his side? Do want to keep your tight end in? The league's getting more athletic, and it won't be too long before you see right tackles who slide like left tackles. We're getting enamored with athletic ability, and he's a throwback."

Ideal spot: Steelers

Derrick Brooks, OLB

The situation: Brooks, 36, was part of a purge of veterans by Tampa's new regime at the outset of free agency. The 11-time Pro Bowler has indicated he wants to play a 15th season, but there has been little interest around the league.

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Scout's take: "He doesn't fit every scheme, so right off the bat there are teams that won't consider him. He'll probably need an injury to happen somewhere to get on a roster. He has another year left, but it needs to be the right fit. While he's a technically sound guy, he's only got OK athletic ability. It's not near where it was."

Ideal spot: Colts

Marvin Harrison, WR

The situation: Creaky knees have led to rumors that Harrison, 36, will hang 'em up in the wake of his ouster from Indianapolis. He's clearly not the elite player of yesteryear, but his agent has said he plans to play in 2009 and he did he manage 60 catches and five touchdowns last year while missing just one game.

Scout's take: "Marvin has lost a great deal of his downfield explosiveness and vertical big-play ability. But he's an exceptional route runner with excellent hands and ball skills, and he still has enough lateral quickness to get in and out of his breaks. What I'd be most concern with, other than age, is the durability factor. But he's a guy who can help. He's not going to forget how to play football, and if someone gets hurt in camp, he could end up there."

Ideal spot: Chargers

© 2012 Sporting News


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