Free Agency has put the sports world in a frenzy, and it appears to essentially have stalled out until the Draft. TRO has got you covered with every team's transactions (which will periodically be updated), and we're handing out grades for each team's efforts thus far:
Free Agency started on March 16, and it's already been one of the craziest, if not THE craziest offseason in League history. Things have officially calmed down a great degree as teams have directed all their focus on the Draft. There will be some more signings, trades, and roster decisions made before the during, and after the Draft. Check back here as the events unfold, as we'll keep this article up to date. In addition to tracking the moves, we'll also be assigning grades to the Free Agency decisions of each team as they continue to unfold. To really stay on top of all the news as it happens, follow The Read Option on Twitter (@OptionFootball).
FREE AGENCY TRACKER AND GRADES:
[Source: www.nfl.com]
Arizona Cardinals
Colt McCoy (QB): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
James Conner (RB): Re-signed to a three-year deal.
Zach Ertz (TE): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
Maxx Williams (TE): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Will Hernandez (OG): Signed a one-year deal.
Michael Dogbe (DE): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Dennis Gardeck (LB): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
Nick Vigil (LB): Signed a one-year deal.
Jeff Gladney (CB): Signed a two-year deal.
Andy Lee (P): Signed a one-year deal.
A.J. Green (WR): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
GRADE: C+
The Cardinals were a good football team in 2021 that tapered off by the end of the season. Good teams look to remain good, and a key part in doing so is by bringing back key players. They were smart to bring back James Conner and Zach Ertz, but the team had to part ways with dynamic back Chase Edmonds (who was a nice complimentary back to Conner), Christian Kirk, Corey Peters, Chandler Jones, and others. Additionally, rumors remain swirling around Kyler Murray's satisfaction with his status within the franchise.
Atlanta Falcons
Marcus Mariota (QB): Signed a two-year deal.
Cordarrelle Patterson (RB/WR): Re-signed to a two-year deal.
Damien Williams (RB): Signed a one-year deal.
KhaDarel Hodge (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
Auden Tate (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
Jake Matthews (OT): Signed a three-year extension.
Elijah Wilkinson (OL): Signed a one year deal.
Lorenzo Carter (OL): Signed a one-year deal.
Rashaan Evans (LB): Signed a one-year deal.
Casey Hayward (CB): Signed a two-year deal.
Isaiah Oliver (CB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Erik Harris (S): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Dean Marlowe (S): Signed a one-year deal.
Younghoe Koo (K): Re-signed to a five-year contract extension.
Beau Brinkley (LS): Signed a one-year deal.
GRADE: D+
After their aggressive pursuit of Deshaun Watson fell short, the Falcons decided to (or possibly were forced to) trade franchise-great, Matt Ryan. This left a team adding to its list of glaring holes, by placing them in need of a new quarterback. Head Coach Arthur Smith used his Tennessee Titans tenure to reconnect with Marcus Mariota. If Matt Ryan couldn't make magic happen with this roster, we don't have any expectations for Mariota, especially given the news of the Calvin Ridley suspension and the loss of Russell Gage. So far, the Falcons have gotten worse from where they finished the season last year, and are staring down the barrel of a true rebuild.
Baltimore Ravens
Patrick Ricard (FB): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
Morgan Moses (OT): Signed a three-year deal.
Michael Pierce (DT): Re-Signed a three-year deal.
Marcus Williams (S): Signed a five-year deal.
GRADE: C+
A relatively quiet offseason in Baltimore, which isn't necessarily a bad thing for a talented team, whose biggest problems last year all came from the injury report, not talent on the roster. We expected them to make a little more splash on the defensive side of the ball, going after another secondary member or pass rusher. The Ravens haven't made any bad additions, but they did lose Bradley Bozeman, Alejandro Villanueva, and two members of the secondary.
Buffalo Bills
Matt Barkley (QB): Signed a one-year deal.
Case Keenum (QB): Acquired in a trade.
Jamison Crowder (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
Duke Johnson (RB): Signed a one-year deal.
Jake Kumerow (WR): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Isaiah McKenzie (WR): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
O.J. Howard (TE): Signed a one-year deal.
Ike Boettger (OG): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Rodger Saffold (OG): Signed a one-year deal.
Mitch Morse (C): Signed a two-year extension.
Shaq Lawson (DE): Signed a two-year deal.
DaQuan Jones (DT): Signed a two-year deal.
Tim Settle (DT): Signed a two-year deal.
Jordan Phillips (DL): Signed a one-year deal.
Von Miller (LB): Signed a six-year deal.
Siran Neal (CB): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
Stefon Diggs (WR): Signed a four-year extension.
GRADE: A
Buffalo did a good job of filling holes left by Star Lotulelei, Emmanuel Sanders, Cole Beasley, Daryl Williams, etc. They even went as far as to replace backup quarterback Mitch Trubisky. They also improved by adding another threat at tight end with O.J. Howard and a receiving back in Duke Johnson. Essentially everything they lost, they replaced, and they made sure to reward Isaiah McKenzie and Stefon Diggs for being reliable weapons for Josh Allen. Buffalo looks to remain a top-tier contender going into 2022.
Carolina Panthers
D'Onta Foreman (RB): Signed a one-year deal.
Rashard Higgins (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
D.J. Moore (WR): Signed a three-year extension.
Brandon Zylstra (WR): Re-signed on a one-year deal
Austin Corbett (OG): Signed a three-year deal.
Bradley Bozeman (C): Signed a one-year deal.
Marquis Haynes (DE): Signed a two-year deal.
Matthew Ioannidis (DT): Signed to a one-year deal.
Frankie Luvu (LB): Re-signed to a two-year deal.
Cory Littleton (LB): Signed a one-year deal.
Damien Wilson (LB): Signed a two-year deal.
Donte Jackson (CB): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
Rashaan Melvin (CB): Signed a one-year deal.
Chris Westry (CB): Signed a one-year deal.
Juston Burris (S): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Sean Chandler (S): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Xavier Woods (S): Signed a three-year deal.
Johnny Hekker (P): Signed a three-year deal.
Zane Gonzalez (K): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
GRADE: A-
Striking out in the hunt for Deshaun Watson might be the best thing to happen to the Carolina Panthers in recent years. They kept their young, core together, and utilized short term deals to add depth to the team to counter balance their limited draft capital. They've revitalized their offensive line, adding Super Bowl Champion Austin Corbett and Bradley Bozeman - who is coming off of a top-three year at the center position. While the team couldn't afford to keep Haason Reddick or Stephon Gilmore, they were able to resign Frankie Luvu and Donte Jackson after career years by both. Carolina wisely extended D.J. Moore for a more than reasonable price for a receiver who has been the only receiver in the League with three straight years of 1,200+ scrimmage yards (despite pitiful quarterback play). The team added valuable depth at running back, linebacker, defensive tackle, and safety as well. They improved their special teams by signing Super Bowl Champion Johnny Hekker, and they brought back consistent kicker Zane Gonazlez. On paper, the Panthers are better than they were last year, and have put themselves in a position to utilize the number six overall pick to either upgrade at quarterback or further solidify their offensive line.
Cincinnati Bengals
Brandon Allen (QB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Hayden Hurst (TE): Signed a one-year deal.
La'el Collins (OL): Signed a three-year deal.
Alex Cappa (OG): Signed a four-year deal.
Ted Karras (OL): Signed a three-year deal.
B.J. Hill (DT): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
Josh Tupou (DL): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Eli Apple (CB): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Jessie Bates (S): Received the franchise tag.
Michael Thomas (DB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Clark Harris (LS): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
GRADE: A+
For a team that was just in the Super Bowl, the Bengals have been aggressive this offseason, while not wasting large amounts of cap space, knowing Joe Burrow will require a large extension down the road. The Bengals' main problem in 2021 was obviously offensive line, so what did they do? They went out and signed bodyguard La'el Collins, along with Alex Cappa and Ted Karras. Burrow and this offense will look to have some much needed stability up front. The team didn't work out a long term deal with Jessie Bates, but at least he still is rostered due to the franchise tag. Losing Larry Ogunjobi and T.J. Uzomah was not ideal, but they found formidable replacements in B.J. Hill and Hayden Hurst. Not to mention the fact that the Bengals still have the Draft to look forward to.
Chicago Bears
Trevor Siemian (QB): Signed a two-year deal.
Byron Pringle (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
Equanimeous St. Brown (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
Ryan Griffin (TE): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Lucas Patrick (OG): Signed a two-year deal.
Dakota Dozier (OL): Signed a one-year deal.
Al-Quadin Muhammad (DE): Signed a two-year deal.
Justin Jones (DT): Signed a two-year deal.
Matt Adams (LB): Signed a one-year deal.
Nicholas Morrow (LB): Signed a one-year deal.
Tavon Young (CB): Signed a one-year deal.
DeAndre Houston-Carson (DB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Patrick Scales (LS): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
GRADE: D
The Bears potentially have something to look forward to in Justin Fields, a new head coach, and a new general manager. However, as they undergo a full rebuild, they will have to endure uninspiring Free Agency periods like this one. Saying goodbye to Khalil Mack, Akiem Hicks, Allen Robinson, and a number of other starters is part of this grueling process. There have yet to make any acquisitions that really jump out at you. Don't dwell on the present Chicago fans, focus on the development of your young players, and hope for the future.
Cleveland Browns
Deshaun Watson (QB): Acquired in a trade with the Houston Texans.
Jacoby Brissett (QB): Signed a one-year deal.
Amari Cooper (WR): Acquired in a trade with the Dallas Cowboys.
Jakeem Grant (WR): Signed a three-year deal.
David Njoku (TE): Received the franchise tag.
Chris Hubbard (OT): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Ethan Pocic (OG): Signed to a one-year deal.
Chase Winovich (DE): Acquired in a trade with the New England Patriots.
Taven Bryan (DT): Signed a one-year deal.
Anthony Walker (LB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Corey Bojorquez (P): Signed a one-year deal.
Chase McLaughlin (K): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Denzel Ward (CB): Re-signed on a five-year deal.
GRADE: A
From purely a football standpoint, without considering the morality surrounding their acquisition of Deshaun Watson, or the way in which they pushed away Baker Mayfield, the Cleveland Browns have improved from where they were a year ago. They took advantage of Dallas' situation with Amari Cooper and acquired him for cheap, they resigned some key players, and they upgraded at the most important position in football to stay competitive in a division with Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow, and T.J. Watt. Even if (or when) Watson is suspended, they bought a capable insurance policy by acquiring Jacoby Brissett. Fully guaranteeing Watson's salary was a questionable decision given the uncertainty of his legal situation, but they were the only team in the mix to offer this kind of long-term contract up front.
Dallas Cowboys
Michael Gallup (WR): Re-signing on a five-year deal.
James Washington (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
Jeremy Sprinkle (TE): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Dalton Schultz (TE): Received the franchise tag.
DeMarcus Lawrence (DE): Signed a three-year deal.
Carlos Watkins (DT): Signed a one-year deal.
Dante Fowler (LB): Signed a one-year deal.
Leighton Vander Esch (LB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Malik Hooker (S): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Jayron Kearse (S): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Jake McQuaide (LS): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Bryan Anger (P): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
GRADE: B-
The Cowboys did what they could do, given the fact that they're bound to have to make tough decisions as they continue to go up against the salary cap. They made some smart moves this offseason and should be very similarly situated to the team they put on the field last year, but not without feeling the losses of La'el Collins, Randy Gregory, Amari Cooper, and Xavier Woods.
Denver Broncos
Josh Johnson (QB): Signed a one-year deal.
Russell Wilson (QB): Acquired in a trade with the Seattle Seahawks.
Calvin Anderson (OT): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Tom Compton (OL): Signed to a one-year deal.
Billy Turner (OL): Signed one-year deal.
Randy Gregory (DE): Signed a five-year deal.
D.J. Jones (DT): Signed a three-year deal.
DeShawn Williams (DT): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Josey Jewell (LB): Signed a two-year deal.
Alex Singleton (LB): Signed a one-year deal.
K'Waun Williams (CB): Signed a two-year deal.
Kareem Jackson (S): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
GRADE: A-
The Denver Broncos have been one of those teams that are just a quarterback away from having a legitimate shot at contending. After a year with Teddy Bridgewater/Drew Lock, they went and made a huge splash to acquire Russell Wilson from Seattle. While they gave up loads of draft capital, they managed to not part ways with any of their young receivers, running backs, or key defensive stars (except for Shelby Harris). To fill Harris's void, they've signed D.J. Jones and Randy Gregory to beef up their defensive line. The Broncos went all in to try to stay afloat in the loaded AFC West, but in a division with Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, and Derek Carr, will it be enough?
Detroit Lions
David Blough (QB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Tim Boyle (QB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
D.J. Chark (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
Kalif Raymond (WR): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Josh Reynolds (WR): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Garrett Griffin (TE): Signed a one-year deal.
Evan Brown (C/OG): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Charles Harris (DE): : Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Alex Anzalone (LB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Chris Board (LB): Signed a one-year deal.
Jarrad Davis (LB): Signed a one-year deal.
Mike Hughes (CB): Signed a one-year deal.
Tracy Walker (S): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
C.J. Moore (DB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
GRADE: C+
The Lions Free Agency moves won't turn many heads. They resigned some rotational players and added cheap veteran depth on one-year deals. They're continuing to play the long game as Dan Campbell's culture continues to spread throughout the organization and they rebuild from the ground up. This team will continue to use the draft to improve, without making major waves in Free Agency until their roster is more competitive.
Green Bay Packers
Aaron Rodgers (QB): Signed a three-year extension.
Allen Lazard (WR): Received second-round restricted Free Agent tender.
Robert Tonyan (TE): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
De'Vondre Campbell (LB): Re-signed on a five-year deal.
Preston Smith (LB): Signed a four-year extension.
Jarran Reed (DT): Signed a one-year deal.
Rasul Douglas (CB): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
Keisean Nixon (CB): Signed a one-year deal.
Pat O'Donnell (P): Signed a one-year deal.
Sammy Watkins (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
GRADE: B
Having Aaron Rodgers return, after questions of uncertainty two years in a row, is certainly good for business. However, losing Davante Adams is not. The acquisition of Sammy Watkins was a good place to start, but this wide receiver room, as it currently stands, is nothing to write home about. The Packers wisely resigned De'Vondre Campbell, Preston Smith, and Rasul Douglas - rewarding some of their top defensive players, but they have no star power at receiver and lost their leading pass rusher in Za'Darius Smith. So, while there's feelings of relief that Rodgers is back, in a conference where quarterback competition is not all that great, there has to be concern that this team has regressed from 2021. Packers fans do have two first round draft picks to look forward to. So, we will wait and see how their draft grade compares to their Free Agency grade.
Houston Texans
Jeff Driskel (QB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Kyle Allen (QB): Signed a one-year deal.
Royce Freeman (RB): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Marlon Mack (RB): Signing a one-year deal.
Dare Ogunbowale (RB): Signed a two-year deal.
Andy Janovich (FB): Signed a one-year deal.
Chris Conley (WR): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
DaeSean Hamilton (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
Pharaoh Brown (TE): Signed to a one-year deal.
Cedric Ogbuehi (OT): Signed a one-year deal.
Justin Britt (OL): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
A.J. Cann (OL): Agreed to a two-year deal.
Maliek Collins (DT): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Blake Cashman (LB): Acquired in a trade with the New York Jets.
Kamu Grugier-Hill (LB): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Neville Hewitt (LB): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Christian Kirksey (LB): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Ogbo Okoronkwo (LB): Signed a one-year deal.
Jalen Reeves-Maybin (LB): Signed a two-year deal.
Terrance Brooks (S): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
M.J. Stewart (S): Signed a one-year deal.
Desmond King (DB): Re-signed a two-year deal.
GRADE: D
At least the Texans can finally turn the page and move on from Deshaun Watson, and will have a lot of future draft picks to look forward to. For now, they continue to sign a whole lot of below-average talent, leading to a bunch of guys most of you have probably never heard of, while losing some key players such as Justin Reid. There might be a bright future in Houston one day, but it is a ways away.
Indianapolis Colts
Matt Ryan (QB): Acquired in a trade with the Atlanta Falcons.
Mo Alie-Cox (TE): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
Matt Pryor (OT): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Tyquan Lewis (DE): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Yannick Ngakoue (DE): Acquired in a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders.
Zaire Franklin (LB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Brandon Facyson (CB): Signed a one-year deal.
Rodney McLeod (S): Signed a contract.
Stephon Gilmore (CB): Signed a two-year deal.
GRADE: A+
The Colts have had a great offseason. They upgraded to a quarterback who will be a much better fit in their system, and all it cost them was a third round pick. Matt Ryan should have this Indianapolis offense looking like an improved version of the one that was a part of the 2020 team that went to the playoffs with Philip Rivers. They resigned some core players, and added pass rush specialist Yannick Ngakoue, cornerback Brandon Facyson, and clamped their secondary with the additions of Rodney McLeod and Stephon Gilmore. This team was almost there last year, and these offseason moves should help them get over the hump, while being led by an elite defense.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Zay Jones (WR): Signed a three-year deal.
Christian Kirk (WR): Signed a four-year deal.
Laquon Treadwell (WR): Re-signed a one-year deal.
Evan Engram (TE): Signed a one-year deal.
Cam Robinson (OT): Received the franchise tag.
Brandon Scherff (OG): Signed a three-year deal.
Tyler Shatley (OL): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Arden Key (DE): Signed a one-year deal.
Foley Fatukasi (DT): Signed a three-year deal.
Foye Oluokun (LB): Signed a three-year deal.
Tre Herndon (CB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Darious Williams (CB): Signed a three-year deal.
GRADE: C+
We can appreciate the Jaguars effort to continue to support their young quarterback, by targeting weapons and offensive linemen. However, we cannot appreciate their irrational spending in attempting to do so. They basically paid Christian Kirk like he was a franchise quarterback, and similarly handed out money like it was nothing to other Free Agents. The team should be improved in 2022, and by hitting Cam Robinson with the franchise tag and obtaining Brandon Scherff (despite overpaying), they will have the flexibility to do what they please with the number one overall pick in this year's Draft. They overpaid for some average pieces, but have added volume to a team looking to take that competitive leap.
Kansas City Chiefs
Chad Henne (QB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Ronald Jones (RB): Signed a one-year deal.
Corey Coleman (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
JuJu Smith-Schuster (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
Marquez Valdes-Scantling (WR): Signed a three-year deal.
Blake Bell (TE): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Orlando Brown (OT): Received the franchise tag.
Frank Clark (DE): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Derrick Nnadi (DT): Signed a one-year deal.
Jermaine Carter Jr. (LB): Signed a one-year deal.
Deon Bush (S): Signed a one-year deal.
Justin Reid (S): Signed a three-year deal.
GRADE: C-
Losing Tyreek Hill and Tyrann Mathieu is not how any team wants to headline their offseason. Kansas City also partied ways with stating offensive tackle Mike Remmers, starting cornerback Charvarius Ward, two of their deeper options at receiver, and other rotational players on both sides of the ball. They made a decent effort to recoup their losses, adding receivers Juju Smith-Schuster, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, and even kicking the tires on Corey Coleman. However, as we've seen in the past, none of these receivers have been able to pose an elite-level threat on their own. Without Hill there threatening to take the top off the defense, it will be interesting to see how this offense looks. We really like the Justin Reid signing, but he is not the same player as Mathieu. While the Chiefs will still be a good football team, the AFC, especially the AFC West, only continues to get more and more competitive, and the Chiefs might have picked the wrong time to take a slight step backwards.
Las Vegas Raiders
Derek Carr (QB): Signed a three-year extension.
Garrett Gilbert (QB): Signed a one-year deal.
Nick Mullens (QB): Signed a one-year deal.
Ameer Abdullah (RB): Signed a one-year deal.
Brandon Bolden (RB): Signed a one-year deal.
Jakob Johnson (FB): Signed a one-year deal.
Davante Adams (WR): Acquired in a trade with the Green Bay Packers and expected to sign a give-year deal.
Demarcus Robinson (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
Jacob Hollister (TE): Signed a one-year deal.
Brandon Parker (OT): Signed a one-year deal.
Maxx Crosby (DE): Signed a four-year contract extension.
Chandler Jones (DE): Signed a three-year deal.
Vernon Butler (DT): Signed a one-year deal.
Johnathan Hankins (DT): Re-signed on a one-year deal
Bilal Nichols (DT): Signed a two-year deal.
Jayon Brown (LB): Signed a one-year deal.
Kyler Fackrell (LB): Signed a one-year deal.
Anthony Averett (CB): Signed a one-year deal.
Rock Ya-Sin (CB): Acquired in a trade with the Indianapolis Colts.
Duron Harmon (S): Signed a one-year deal.
GRADE: A+
We absolutely love the Free Agency moves the Raiders have made. Reuniting college teammates, Derek Carr and Davante Adams was one of the biggest blockbuster deals. Rewarding their best players and leaders on both sides of the ball, Derek Carr and Maxx Crosby, was an equally wise move. For a team that surprised many and made the playoffs last year, they have seemed to significantly improved their roster. Demarcus Robinson seems like the perfect deep-threat receiver that Carr has had success with, to compliment all of the attention Adams will draw. Las Vegas also got deeper at defensive tackle, cornerback, linebacker and running back. We can't forget about Chandler Jones, who just looks like he was meant to play in a Raiders uniform. Time will tell if Josh McDaniels can take this talent where it is capable of going.
Los Angeles Chargers
Chase Daniel (QB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
DeAndre Carter (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
Mike Williams (WR): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
Gerald Everett (TE): Signed a two-year deal.
Christian Covington (DT): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Austin Johnson (DT): Signed a one-year deal.
Sebastian Joseph-Day (DL): Signed a three-year deal.
Khalil Mack (LB): Acquired in a trade with the Chicago Bears.
J.C. Jackson (CB): Signed a five-year deal.
Josh Harris (LS): Signing a four-year deal.
Dustin Hopkins (K): Re-signed on a multi-year deal.
GRADE: A
The Chargers are another fringe playoff team that has utilized Free Agency to improve. Trading for Khalil Mack will give the defense a huge boost, leaving opposing offenses struggling to scheme against Mack and Joey Bosa. They also added interception-magnet, J.C. Jackson, who will benefit from the havoc the defensive line should routinely cause. Los Angeles also wisely kept Mike Williams around for a multi-year deal. A good offseason for the Bolts, as they look to compete in loaded the AFC West.
Los Angeles Rams
Matthew Stafford (QB): Signed three-year extension.
Allen Robinson (WR): Signed a three-year deal.
Joe Noteboom (OT): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
Brian Allen (C): Re-signed to a three-year deal.
Bobby Wagner (LB): Signed what a two-year deal (with an option to become a Free Agent after the first year if Wagner hits his incentives and chooses to do so).
Riley Dixon (P): Signed a one-year deal.
GRADE: B
For a team that broke the bank last year to (successfully) make a push at a title, everyone knew the Rams could not retain everyone and remain cap-compliant. Despite their impeding roster trimming, Los Angeles has done a decent job with Free Agency to remain a top-tier threat in the NFC. They had to part ways with some notable players such asAustin Corbett, Von Miller, Odell Beckham, Johnny Hekker, and Robert Woods, but they wisely added veteran talent such as Allen Robinson and Bobby Wagner to help recoup. That defense with Aaron Donald, Jalen Ramsey, and now Wagner, will be must-see TV. Allen Robinson can help fill the void left by the losses of Beckham and Woods. The Rams also worked out a long-term deal with Matthew Stafford. All-in-all, a productive off season so far for a team that had to part ways with key players and will essentially have no draft picks.
Miami Dolphins
Teddy Bridgewater (QB): Signed a one-year deal.
Chase Edmonds (RB): Signed a two-year deal.
Raheem Mostert (RB): Signed a one-year deal.
Alec Ingold (FB): Signed a two-year deal.
Tyreek Hill (WR): Acquired in a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Trent Sherfield (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
Preston Williams (WR): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Cedrick Wilson (WR): Signed a three-year deal.
Mike Gesicki (TE): Signed the franchise tag.
Durham Smythe (TE): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Terron Armstead (LT): Signed a five-year deal.
Connor Williams (OG): Signed a two-year deal.
Emmanuel Ogbah (DE): Re-signed on a four-year deal.
John Jenkins (DT): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Duke Riley (LB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Elandon Roberts (LB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Brennan Scarlett (LB): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Xavien Howard (CB): Agreed to a new five-year deal.
Thomas Morstead (P): Signed a one-year deal.
GRADE: A+
Like the Colts, Raiders, and Chargers, the Dolphins were a competitive team in 2021, and are using Free Agency to go all in to get over the hump in 2022. Without losing any impactful players, the Dolphins landed one of the top left tackle Free Agents in Terron Armstead, finally convinced super star corner Xavien Howard to ink a long term deal after almost losing him last year, traded for elite wide receiver Tyreek Hill to pair with budding star Jaylen Waddle, and brought in some quarterback insurance in Teddy Bridgewater. Miami also filled out their backfield, and are poised to run a run-heavy offense that utilizes play action, short passing, and yards after the catch to efficiently move the ball down field - the type of offense newly acquired head coach Mike McDaniel will be bringing over from San Francisco.
Minnesota Vikings
Kirk Cousins (QB): Signed a one-year extension.
Sean Mannion (QB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Chris Reed (OG): Signed a two-year deal.
Jesse Davis (OL): Signed with a one-year deal.
Harrison Phillips (DL): Signed a three-year deal.
Jordan Hicks (LB): Agreed to a two-year deal.
Za'Darius Smith (LB): Signed a three-year deal.
Patrick Peterson (CB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Greg Joseph (K): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Jordan Berry (P): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
GRADE: C+
A relatively quiet Free Agency period for the Vikings. They've mainly resigned some key players and added some depth at offensive line and linebacker. The biggest splash Minnesota made was locking down Za'Darius Smith for the next few years, who will fit in nicely with the Vikings' pass rush attack. They did lose some quality players stretching them thin at defensive tackle, safety, center, and tight end. We'll see how they draft, but as far as Free Agent moves go, a fairly average offseason for Minnesota so far.
New England Patriots
Brian Hoyer (QB): Re-signed to a two-year deal.
Ty Montgomery (RB): Signed a one-year deal.
James White (RB): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
DeVante Parker (WR): Acquired in a trade with the Miami Dolphins.
Trent Brown (OT): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
James Ferentz (C/OG): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Ja'Whaun Bentley (LB): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Mack Wilson (LB): Acquired in a trade with the Cleveland Browns.
Malcolm Butler (CB): Signed a two-year deal.
Terrance Mitchell (CB): Signed a one-year deal.
Devin McCourty (S): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Jabrill Peppers (S): Signed a one-year deal.
Nick Folk (K): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Matthew Slater (ST): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
GRADE: B-
The Patriots have put together a decent Free Agency period. Similar to most years under Bill Belichick, New England parted ways with some key veterans and brought in some others. We really like the Jabrill Peppers signing, as well as their bringing back of Trent Brown. Acquiring DeVante Parker should help Mac Jones's development as he looks to grow off of his solid rookie year. None of these moves blow you away, and they will miss J.C. Jackson, Shaq Mason, Kyle Van Noy, and Dont'a Hightower, but Belichick typically has a good eye for knowing when to cut bait.
New Orleans Saints
Jameis Winston (QB): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Andy Dalton (QB): Signed a one-year deal.
Tre'Quan Smith (WR): Re-signing on a two-year deal.
Taco Charlton (DE): Signed a one-year deal.
Kentavius Street (DE): Signed a one-year deal.
P.J. Williams (CB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Marcus Maye (S): Signed a three-year deal.
Daniel Sorenson (S): Signed a one year deal.
GRADE: C-
Given the salary-cap hell the Saints found themselves in to start the offseason, it's obvious they were never going to break the bank in Free Agency. After not getting Deshaun Watson, New Orleans wisely brought back Jameis Winston. They invested a bit too much money into Marcus Maye and Daniel Sorenson, which will prove to be a downgrade from Marcus Williams. We're also confused by the haste to sign Andy Dalton. We don't disagree with the decision, as healthy competition for Winston will bring the best out of him and provide adequate depth. However, Dalton would have likely been available after the Draft. Now, if the Saints find themselves in a position to take a quarterback they like, they will already have both Winston and Dalton on the roster, as well as Ian Book, who they invested a fourth rounder in last year. After losing Terron Armstead, the team finds themselves looking to fill another key position with limited resources.
New York Giants
Tyrod Taylor (QB): Signed a two-year deal.
Matt Breida (RB): Signed a one-year deal.
Richie James (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
Ricky Seals-Jones (TE): Signed a one-year deal.
Jon Feliciano (OL): Signed a one-year deal.
Mark Glowinski (OL): Signed a three-year deal.
Jihad Ward (DE): Signed a one-year deal.
Justin Ellis (DT): Signed a one-year deal.
Casey Kreiter (LS): Signed a one-year deal.
GRADE: C
Honestly, not much to see here outside of the acquisition of some healthy quarterback competition with Tyrod Taylor and some much needed offensive line depth. The Giants are much more focused on their two early first round picks in this year's Draft.
New York Jets
Joe Flacco (QB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Mike White (QB): Signed his original-round tender, a one-year deal.
Tevin Coleman (RB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Braxton Berrios (WR): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Tyler Conklin (TE): Signed a one-year deal.
C.J. Uzomah (TE): Signed a three-year deal.
Conor McDermott (OT): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Laken Tomlinson (OG): Signed a three-year deal.
Dan Feeney (OL): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Nathan Shepherd (DT): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Solomon Thomas (DL): Signed a one-year deal.
Jacob Martin (LB): Signed a three-year deal.
D.J. Reed (CB): Signed a three-year deal.
Jordan Whitehead (S): Signed a two-year deal.
Lamarcus Joyner (DB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Greg Zuerlein (K): Signed a one-year deal.
GRADE: B+
Not a lot of major-headline moves, but a lot of well-thought out acquisitions. The Jets creatively found ways to find several players that fit the play-style of the organization. We like the attention to upgrading tight end (twice), re-signing Tevin Coleman and Braxton Berrios, and also bringing back Joe Flacco, a favored mentor to Zach Wilson.
Philadelphia Eagles
Boston Scott (RB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Zach Pascal (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
Greg Ward (WR): Re-signed a one-year deal.
Jason Kelce (C): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Derek Barnett (DE): Re-signed to a two-year deal.
Fletcher Cox (DT): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Haason Reddick (LB): Signed a three-year deal.
Kyzir White (LB): Signed a one-year deal.
Anthony Harris (S): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Andre Chachere (DB): Signed a one-year deal.
GRADE: A-
The Eagles have been quietly wheeling and dealing this offseason. While they lost Rodney McLeod, they managed to bring back Anthony Harris. They did a great job of bringing back key leaders Jason Kelce and Fletcher Cox. The most noise they made was bringing in Haason Reddick, who is coming off of back to back amazing seasons, and has proven he can thrive in any system. The Eagles were a Wild Card team last year, and have retained the bulk of their roster, looking primed to cash in on their stockpile of draft picks that they have accumulated.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Mitchell Trubisky (QB): Signed a two-year deal.
Chukwuma Okorafor (OT): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
James Daniels (OG): Signed a three-year deal.
Mason Cole (OL): Signed a three-year deal.
Genard Avery (LB): Signed a one-year deal.
Myles Jack (LB): Signed a two-year deal.
Robert Spillane (LB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Arthur Maulet (CB): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Levi Wallace (CB): Signed a two-year contract. (Team)
Ahkello Witherspoon (CB): Re-signed to a two-year deal.
Miles Killebrew (S): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Karl Joseph (DB): Signed to a one-year deal.
Gunner Olszewski (KR): Signed a two-year deal.
GRADE: B-
Not a bad run at Free Agency for the Steelers by any means. We think the mobility and youth of Mitchell Trubisky provides an upgrade at the most position in sports from a retirement-tour Big Ben. While Trubisky will obviously be the least talented quarterback in the division (Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow, and Deshaun Watson), he's the kind of quarterback the Steel City can work with to win some games. Pittsburgh wisely made the offensive line a priority, and added some much needed depth to the linebacker room. We absolutely love the Myles Jack signing, a freakazoid type player who will thrive in this system, playing with T.J. Watt. They'll miss Joe Haden, and have lost essentially all of their depth at receiver. Pay attention to the loss of Ray-Ray McCloud. His numbers weren't that impressive, but he was a major contributor to establishing field position, and came up clutch late in the season. We'll be interested to see how they approach the Draft as Mike Tomlin will look to continue his perfect record of never having a losing season.
San Francisco 49ers
JaMycal Hasty (RB): Signed to a one-year extension
Jeff Wilson (RB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Marcus Johnson (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
Ray-Ray McCloud (WR): Signed a two-year deal.
Malik Turner (WR): Signed a one-year deal.
Ross Dwelley (TE): Signed a one-year deal.
Kerry Hyder Jr. (DE): Signed a one-year deal.
Kemoko Turay (DE): Signed a one-year deal.
Hassan Ridgeway (DT): Signed a one-year deal.
Oren Burks (LB): Signed a two-year deal.
Darqueze Dennard (CB): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Dontae Johnson (CB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Charvarius Ward (CB): Signed a three-year deal.
George Odum (S): Signed a three-year deal.
GRADE: B
We like the attention the Niners have place on keeping the defensive line and secondary deep. This team's continued focus on beefing up the trenches on both sides of the ball has been the main contributing factor to their sustained success. Where they lose points this offseason is botching all remaining leverage they had with Jimmy Garoppolo, and most importantly (and recently), having Deebo Samuel officially announce his trade request. With inexperienced Trey Lance likely taking the reigns, and the lack of the X-factor Deebo brings, this offense could take a major step back in 2022. San Francisco hasn't exactly oozed confidence regarding what they have in Lance.
Seattle Seahawks
Drew Lock (QB): Acquired in a trade with the Denver Broncos.
Geno Smith (QB): Signed a one-year deal.
Rashaad Penny (RB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Will Dissly (TE): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
Noah Fant (TE): Acquired in a trade with the Denver Broncos.
Austin Blythe (C): Signed a one-year deal.
Kyle Fuller (C/OG): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Shelby Harris (DT): Acquired in a trade with the Denver Broncos.
Quinton Jefferson (DT): Signed a one-year deal.
Al Woods (DT): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Uchenna Nwosu (LB): Signed a two-year deal.
Artie Burns (CB): Signed a one-year deal.
Justin Coleman (CB): Signed a one-year deal.
Sidney Jones (CB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Quandre Diggs (S): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
GRADE: B
Anytime you lose your marquee franchise players on both sides of the ball, and begin a rebuild, you're likely in for a rough season. The Seahawks managed to acquire some great draft capital from Denver in the Russell Wilson trade, and they added some much-needed depth to their defense. Shelby Harris is the one player most Broncos fans wish they could have avoided including in the deal. He will provide an immediate boost to Seattle's defensive front. The Seahawks were wise to get something for Wilson, instead of having to part ways with him in exchange for nothing. Given the injury to Russ last year, this team actually is in line to finish 2022 with a similar record. If Denver still struggles in the loaded AFC West, those draft picks acquired will exponentially increase in value. The Seahawks have set themselves up to execute a quick rebuild by pulling the plug on a leaky ship instead of allowing it to slowly go under. As long as they don't whiff on Draft picks, particularly quarterback, over the next couple of years, Seattle has given themselves the opportunity to return to relevance quicker than most teams who move off of their franchise quarterback. The marquee trade of the offseason proved to be in the best interests of both franchises involved.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tom Brady (QB): Announced he will come out of retirement and return to the team.
Blaine Gabbert (QB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Giovani Bernard (RB): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Leonard Fournette (RB): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
Shaq Mason (OG): Acquired in a trade with the New England Patriots.
Russell Gage (WR): Signed a three-year deal.
Chris Godwin (WR): Received the franchise tag and later signed a three-year deal.
Breshad Perriman (WR): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Josh Wells (OT): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Aaron Stinnie (OG): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Ryan Jensen (C): Re-signed to a three-year deal.
William Gholston (DE): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Carlton Davis (CB): Re-signed on a three-year deal.
Keanu Neal (S): Signed a one-year deal.
Logan Ryan (DB): Signed a one-year deal.
Zach Triner (LS): Re-signed to a two-year deal.
GRADE: A
Tom Brady coming out of retirement after 40 days is enough to make this a very successful offseason for Tampa Bay. His return helped resign several key players like Leonard Fournette, Chris Godwin, Ryan Jensen, etc. One of our favorite acquisitions for this team is Logan Ryan. He's a dynamic player who has entered the perfect situation to remind everyone who he was when he first signed with the Giants. Russell Gage has the type of skillset that will pair nicely in the middle of the field with Brady's tendencies. The only thing from really pushing this Grade to the top are the losses (and lack of replacements) on the defensive line. It's not enough to worry most Bucs fans, especially in a dysfunctional NFC South, but it is an area to keep your eye on as this team prepares for the Draft and looks to round out its offseason.
Tennessee Titans
Dontrell Hilliard (RB): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Robert Woods (WR): Acquired in a trade with the Rams.
Austin Hooper (TE): Signed a one-year deal.
Geoff Swaim (TE): Signed to a one-year extension.
Ben Jones (C): Re-signing on a two-year deal.
Jamarco Jones (OL): Signed a two-year deal.
Harold Landry (LB): Re-signed to a five-year extension.
Buster Skrine (CB): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Morgan Cox (LS): Signed to a one-year extension.
Randy Bullock (K): Re-signing on a two-year deal.
GRADE: A
The Titans have had a quietly impressive offseason. They have found the perfect weapon to pair with A.J. Brown, while only parting ways with a sixth round pick in exchange. Expect Robert Woods to be what Titans fans expected Julio Jones to be, and then some. They also acquired a much needed pass catching tight end in Austin Hooper and wisely resigned Harold Landry to a long-term deal after a breakout season. A couple of losses along the offensive line will be missed, but this team has set itself up to remain competitive amongst the beasts in the AFC.
Washington Commanders
Carson Wentz (QB): Acquired in a trade with the Indianapolis Colts.
J.D. McKissic (RB): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Cam Sims (WR): Re-signed on a one-year deal.
Cornelius Lucas (OT): Re-signing on a two-year deal.
Andrew Norwell (OG): Signed a two-year deal.
Tyler Larsen (C): Re-signed to a one-year deal.
Efe Obada (DE): Signed to a one-year deal.
Bobby McCain (DB): Re-signed on a two-year deal.
Joey Slye (K): Re-signed to a two-year deal.
GRADE: B-
Along with finding a new team name, Washington also found a new quarterback. Carson Wentz is an obvious upgrade from the quarterback room of the previous year(s), but there's only so far that will go. The reunion between Ron Rivera and Andrew Norwell will help Commanders fans move on from Brandon Scherff, and the team made some calculated cuts on the defensive side of the ball. There are still holes to be filled, but Washington should fans have a more productive season to look forward to.
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