The NFL’s legal tampering period is here, marking the unofficial start of free agency. Teams can now meet with and make deals with free agents. Interestingly, many teams were busy on Sunday, with a slew of contract re-signings, trades, and cuts happening before the tampering window officially opened. Here are some key moves you might have missed.
Key NFL Transactions from Sunday
- The Buffalo Bills re-signed QB Josh Allen for six years and $330 million, with a record $250 million guaranteed.
- The Cleveland Browns locked in edge rusher Myles Garrett with a four-year, $160 million deal that includes a record $123 million guarantee for a non-quarterback.
- The Pittsburgh Steelers acquired WR DK Metcalf, giving up a 2025 second-round pick and signing him to a five-year, $150 million extension.
- The Los Angeles Rams signed WR Davante Adams for two years at $46 million.
- The Kansas City Chiefs re-signed LB Nick Bolton for three years and $45 million.
- The New York Jets also re-signed LB Jamien Sherwood for three years at $45 million.
- The New England Patriots signed edge rusher Harold Landry for three years at $43.5 million.
- The Seattle Seahawks re-signed LB Ernest Jones IV for three years at $33 million and DT Jarran Reed for three years at $25 million.
- The Minnesota Vikings re-signed RB Aaron Jones for two years at $20 million.
- The Buffalo Bills released edge rusher Von Miller.
Let’s break down some winners and losers from this whirlwind day.
Winners
Myles Garrett and the Cleveland Browns
Myles Garrett, the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year, got a massive payday with a new contract that makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. The Browns secured their star defensive player through the 2030 season, allowing them to focus on drafting a new quarterback while bolstering their defense.
DK Metcalf
After expressing his desire to leave Seattle amidst a rebuild, Metcalf found a new home in Pittsburgh, signing a lucrative deal. His average of $30 million per year places him high among NFL wide receivers. Paired with fellow playmaker George Pickens, he’s set for a productive season ahead.
Davante Adams and the Los Angeles Rams
Adams signed a solid two-year deal with the Rams, where he can continue his pursuit of a Super Bowl ring. With strong offensive support, including quarterback Matthew Stafford, he should be in a great position to excel.
Aaron Jones
Jones re-signed with the Minnesota Vikings for two years, earning a significant pay increase compared to last year’s contract. His performance suggests he can remain a top contributor despite concerns about his age and durability.
Losers
On the flip side, some players and teams are feeling the pressure:
New Teams with Cap Space
Several teams with large cap space are now in a tough spot. The New England Patriots, Los Angeles Chargers, and Arizona Cardinals will likely have to make tough decisions as many top players have already signed elsewhere.
Aaron Rodgers
Rodgers faced disappointment as two potential destinations for him faded away. With the Seahawks and Raiders opting for other quarterbacks, his options have dwindled significantly.
Von Miller
Miller’s release by the Bills means he’ll have to find a new team as free agency progresses. This could lead to uncertain times for the veteran edge rusher as he waits for other signings to shake out.
This weekend’s moves set the stage for an exciting free agency period ahead. With key players changing teams, the landscape of the NFL is shifting rapidly.
