The NFL’s financial landscape is being scrutinized in the form of awards for the 12th consecutive year on CBSSports.com, coinciding with the establishment of the Super Bowl LIX matchup. These awards deviate from traditional NFL honors by focusing on 2024 veteran acquisitions from an economic perspective, emphasizing the impact of players acquired through trades or free agency. Notably, rookies were excluded from consideration due to their salaries being predetermined based on draft position, as were players who signed restricted free agent tenders due to fixed amounts set by the NFL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement.
### Saquon Barkley: The MVP of Veteran Acquisitions
The Eagles made a significant move by signing Saquon Barkley to a three-year, $37.75 million contract, demonstrating their commitment to the star running back. Barkley’s performance validated the Eagles’ investment, as he led the NFL in rushing yards with 2,005 on 345 carries, showcasing his dynamic abilities on the field. Barkley’s impressive stats, including 278 receiving yards, a total of 2,283 yards from scrimmage, and 15 total touchdowns, solidified his status as a standout player in the league. His exceptional postseason play further underscored his value to the team, with 442 rushing yards and five touchdowns propelling the Eagles to Super Bowl LIX. Barkley’s impact on the team’s success cannot be overstated, making him a deserving recipient of the MVP award for veteran acquisitions in 2024.
### Sam Darnold: The Surprising Runner-Up
While Barkley rightfully claimed the spotlight, Sam Darnold emerged as a notable contender, earning recognition as the runner-up in the awards for veteran acquisitions. Darnold’s unexpected career resurgence with the Vikings showcased his ability to lead the team to success, with impressive stats throughout the season. Despite a disappointing finish in the playoffs, Darnold’s overall performance, including 4,319 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and a 102.5 passer rating, highlighted his value to the team. The Vikings’ success under Darnold’s leadership positioned him as a strong contender for future accolades, demonstrating his resilience and determination to excel in the league.
### Kirk Cousins: The Costly Mistake
On the flip side, Kirk Cousins’ signing with the Falcons proved to be a costly misstep, with the team failing to meet expectations despite high hopes for the quarterback. Cousins’ lackluster performance, marked by a series of losses and a staggering 16 interceptions, led to his benching in favor of Michael Penix Jr. The Falcons’ subsequent struggles and the financial implications of Cousins’ contract painted a grim picture for the team, highlighting the risks associated with high-profile acquisitions in the NFL. The fallout from Cousins’ underwhelming tenure serves as a cautionary tale for teams navigating the complex landscape of player acquisitions and salary commitments in the league.
In conclusion, the NFL’s 2024 veteran acquisitions showcased a mix of success stories and cautionary tales, underscoring the high stakes and uncertainties inherent in player signings and contract extensions. From standout performances by players like Saquon Barkley to unexpected comebacks like Sam Darnold’s resurgence, the awards shed light on the dynamic nature of the league and the pivotal role that veteran acquisitions play in shaping team success. As teams navigate the intricacies of player contracts and salary negotiations, the lessons learned from the 2024 NFL Contract Awards serve as valuable insights for future roster decisions and strategic planning in the ever-evolving landscape of professional football.
