By Peter Sblendorio

The NFL Free Agency period starts today, and a number of star players looking to steal big contracts from hungry NFL teams.

There is no salary cap for the NFL next season, and this could lead to huge contracts for the top free agents available.

The only player that could come close to Albert Haynesworth’s $100 million contract with the Redskins last year is Carolina defensive end Julius Peppers. Peppers was the Panther’s franchise player last year and made nearly $17 million in 2009, and he seems interested in making a comparable amount next year. The Patriots are a natural fit, as they have been looking for an impact outside linebacker for their 3-4 defense for a while.

Linebacker Karlos Dansby of the Cardinals is possibly the next most lucrative free agent available. The Giants are in need of an impact Middle Linebacker and will likely come calling for Dansby. The Dolphins have also been listed as a potential suitor.

Carolina Quarterback Jake Delhomme leads the list of passers on the market, as he was released on Friday. Delhomme struggled last year after signing a five year extension with Carolina, but he has the most impressive resume among free agent quarterbacks. The Vikings could be interested should Brett Favre retire.

A pair of veteran running backs also became available last week. LaDanian Tomlinson and Brian Westbrook were released by the Chargers and Eagles in moves to cut payroll, and the two backs will likely look to latch on to potential Super Bowl teams. The Texans could look to one of these backs to sure up their back field.

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