The NFL free agency kicked off on Monday, bringing a whirlwind of signings and strategic moves by teams. As the legal tampering period allows discussions to begin, teams are making deals that will officially start at 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday, marking the start of the new league year.
Let’s take a look at some notable free-agent signings and how they are being graded.
Defensive Tackle: Milton Williams
Grade: B
Milton Williams, a third-round pick in 2021, is heading to the Patriots. He played a key role on the Eagles’ defensive line, excelling as both a pass rusher and run defender. Now, he’s set to step into a bigger role in New England’s defense.
Wide Receiver: Chris Godwin
Reported deal: Three years, $66 million
Grade: A
Chris Godwin is returning to the Buccaneers after battling through an ankle injury last season. Known for his speed and ability to gain yards after the catch, he remains a potent threat on the field.
Edge Rusher: Josh Sweat
Reported deal: Four years, $76.4 million
Grade: A
Sweat is joining the Cardinals, bringing his Super Bowl experience with him. With one season of double-digit sacks under his belt, he aims to elevate his game in a familiar system under defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon.
Quarterback: Sam Darnold
Reported deal: Three years, $110.5 million
Grade: C
Sam Darnold has signed with the Seahawks after a successful stint with the Vikings. Facing pressure in Seattle, he’ll need to adapt quickly to a new offense that lacks the same level of weapons he had last season.
Cornerback: D.J. Reed
Reported deal: Three years, $48 million
Grade: A
Reed moves to the Lions from the Jets, hoping to solidify the secondary. Last season, he showcased his skills with 11 pass breakups and impressive tackling stats.
Center: Drew Dalman
Reported deal: Three years, $42 million
Grade: A
Dalman, previously with the Falcons, offers versatility on the offensive line. After dealing with injuries, he impressed in the games he played and is expected to help protect Chicago’s young quarterback, Caleb Williams.
Safety: Talanoa Hufanga
Reported deal: Three years, $45 million
Grade: C+
An All-Pro selection, Hufanga joins the Broncos but has injury concerns to navigate. If healthy, he could be a game-changer on the field.
Cornerback: Carlton Davis
Reported deal: Three years, $60 million
Grade: B
Davis, known for his skills and experience, is headed to the Patriots. His history of injuries raises questions about his availability, but he brings valuable experience from his Super Bowl run with the Buccaneers.
Safety: Tre’von Moehrig
Reported deal: Three years, $51 million
Grade: B
Moehrig, fresh off a season with significant tackles and interceptions, is expected to strengthen the Panthers’ secondary, which struggled last season.
Quarterback: Justin Fields
Reported deal: Two years, $40 million
Grade: B
Fields is heading to the Jets after a shaky start in Chicago. He had a promising stint with the Steelers and now faces the challenge of consistency in a new system.
Edge Rusher: Haason Reddick
Reported deal: One year, $14 million
Grade: B
Reddick looks to bounce back with the Buccaneers after a year of uncertainty. They hope he can bring back his double-digit sack prowess.
Guard: Patrick Mekari
Reported deal: Three years, $37.5 million
Grade: B
Mekari, versatile in his playing ability, joins the Jaguars to enhance Trevor Lawrence’s protection as they focus on improving the offensive line.
Defensive Tackle: Poona Ford
Reported deal: Three years, $30 million
Grade: B
Ford is adding experience to the Rams’ front line. His performance last season was notable, and his addition aims to bolster the defensive depth.
Cornerback: Paulson Adebo
Reported deal: Three years, $30 million
Grade: B
Adebo, recovering from injury, has shown potential as a top corner in the league. His success will help strengthen the Giants’ defense.
Linebacker: Robert Spillane
Reported deal: Three years, $37.5 million
Grade: B
Spillane joins the Patriots after a strong season with the Raiders, looking to energize the defense with his tackling prowess.
Edge Rusher: Dayo Odeyingbo
Reported deal: Three years, $48 million
Grade: B
Odeyingbo is another young talent the Bears are adding to their defensive line, coming off a productive season with promising potential.
Tackle: Dan Moore Jr.
Reported deal: Four years, $82 million
Grade: D
Moore joins the Titans but comes with a history of struggles in pass protection. Improvement will be essential for him to succeed in Tennessee.
Tackle: Morgan Moses
Reported deal: Three years, $24 million
Grade: B
Moses, a seasoned right tackle, will help anchor the offensive line for the Patriots, providing depth and experience as they develop their young quarterback.
Guard: Aaron Banks
Reported deal: Four years, $77 million
Grade: C+
Banks is a young player looking to make a mark. The Packers hope he can step up and provide the consistency they need on the offensive line.
Tackle: Jaylon Moore
Reported deal: Two years, $30 million
Grade: B
After serving as the backup in San Francisco, Moore aims to bring stability to the Chiefs’ offensive line. His previous experience could benefit Patrick Mahomes.
Quarterback: Jimmy Garoppolo
Reported deal: One year, $11 million
Grade: B
Garoppolo remains with the Rams as a reliable backup who brings sharing experience. His role as a seasoned presence is invaluable in a competitive league.
Check out this related article: Bears Strengthen Pass Rush with Exciting Addition of Odeyingbo: What This Means for the Team
Source linkNFL
