As the NFL transitions from the Super Bowl to the start of the new league year, fans eagerly anticipate the whirlwind of activity that is free agency. With the league year kicking off on Wednesday, March 12, teams are gearing up to finalize trades and sign players to new contracts, thanks in part to the increased salary cap of $279.2 million per club this season.
The lead-up to free agency has been anything but dull this year, with notable moves like Bengals receiver Tee Higgins being franchise-tagged for the second time, the surprising release of longtime Chargers defender Joey Bosa, and the resurgence of Sam Darnold in Minnesota, making him one of the most sought-after free agent quarterbacks.
While some expected a slower offseason, the action has already begun with the Rams re-signing backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo to a one-year deal, the Jaguars signing cornerback Jourdan Lewis, and the Patriots adding former Raiders linebacker Robert Spillane on a three-year, $37 million deal. Other significant moves include the Steelers closing in on a deal with Aaron Rodgers, the Commanders signing former Jets and 49ers defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw to a three-year, $45 million deal, and the Bengals re-signing B.J. Hill to a three-year, $33 million deal.
The Chiefs signed running back Elijah Mitchell to a one-year deal, the Texans inked a one-year, $2 million deal with wide receiver Braxton Berrios, and the Bears secured former Falcons center Drew Dalman on a three-year, $42 million deal. Additionally, the Chargers brought back punter J.K. Scott on a two-year, $6 million deal, the Buccaneers re-signed wide receiver Chris Godwin to a three-year, $66 million deal, and the Chiefs added former 49ers offensive lineman Jaylon Moore on a two-year, $30 million deal.
The Buccaneers also re-signed linebacker Haason Reddick to a one-year, $14 million deal, while the Panthers made Jaycee Horn the highest-paid defensive back in history with a massive four-year, $100 million extension. On the other hand, the Falcons announced the release of defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, saving $16.25 million in cap space.
Looking ahead, the offseason promises more excitement with free agent visits and potential trades, such as former Jaguars tight end Evan Engram visiting the Broncos, Lions re-signing Ezekiel Turner, and the Broncos re-signing DJ Jones to a three-year, $39 million deal. With the NFL free agency frenzy in full swing, fans can expect more signings, trades, and surprises in the days to come.
