With the dust settling on the NFL free agency period, which kicked off on March 12, it’s the perfect moment to evaluate the whirlwind of transactions.
Several teams made significant moves by signing star players like Sam Darnold, Davante Adams, Justin Fields, Josh Sweat, and Carlton Davis III. Meanwhile, high-profile free agents such as Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson, and Stefon Diggs are still exploring their options. This begs the question: which moves stood out as the best or most perplexing? Which contracts offered the best value, and which teams have undergone the most remarkable improvements? And what future moves can we anticipate from teams facing setbacks?
We tapped into the insights of NFL experts to dissect the past two weeks of free agency. Let’s dive into the assessments, starting with the teams that fell short during free agency.
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Matt Bowen, an NFL analyst, points to the San Francisco 49ers as a team that may have regressed. As Brock Purdy prepares for a new deal, the Niners had to part ways with key players like Deebo Samuel Sr., Dre Greenlaw, and Talanoa Hufanga. However, a potential trade for Philadelphia’s edge rusher Bryce Huff, who thrived under the Jets in 2023, could change the narrative.
Jeremy Fowler, a national NFL reporter, highlights the Los Angeles Chargers. Free agency can sometimes provide false optimism, and the Chargers experienced talent loss with Kristian Fulton, Poona Ford, and Joshua Palmer leaving without substantial replacements. They missed opportunities with players like Davante Adams and DK Metcalf. Drawing on GM Joe Hortiz’s Ravens lineage, known for letting free agents go, Fowler believes the Chargers’ process will eventually work out. A smart move would be giving Stefon Diggs a compelling one-year offer to support Justin Herbert.
Eric Moody, a fantasy football writer, points out the Buffalo Bills’ unmet need for a top-tier receiver. Additions like Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, and Curtis Samuel show potential, yet questions remain, especially with Joshua Palmer’s entry. The Bills would benefit from bolstering their secondary and adding a 1-technique defensive lineman.
Aaron Schatz, another NFL analyst, questions the Kansas City Chiefs’ decisions. While franchising Trey Smith necessitated Joe Thuney’s trade, replacing Thuney is no small feat. The departure of Justin Reid weakens their secondary. Drafting a cornerback early to compete for outside slots could rekindle Trent McDuffie’s slot versatility.
Ben Solak discusses the Seattle Seahawks and their decision to trade DK Metcalf. While maintaining Sam Darnold’s performance level might abate the drop from Geno Smith, doubts linger. Without addressing offensive line concerns and investing in DeMarcus Lawrence, there’s skepticism around their strategy.
Mike Tannenbaum brings up the Dallas Cowboys, suggesting they focused on depth with signings like Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders. Yet, they lost key contributors like Jourdan Lewis and Zack Martin. The most striking oversight is not locking Micah Parsons in sooner, especially in light of the market reset by Myles Garrett’s hefty contract.
Seth Walder questions the Chiefs again for their unaddressed offensive line issues. The loss of Joe Thuney and an unproven Jaylon Moore at left tackle aren’t confidence boosters. The Chiefs should consider drafting early for a tackle, allowing potential strategic shifts in the lineup.
Field Yates echoes concerns for the 49ers’ run of misfortune after a tough 6-11 season scarred by injuries. The off-season transitions were strategic, preparing for Brock Purdy’s salary hike, heralding a new team-building era.
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On the more positive side, several teams have emerged stronger. According to Bowen, the Chicago Bears are among the most improved. They focused on reinforcing offensive lines by acquiring veterans like Joe Thuney, Jonah Jackson, and Drew Dalman while securing their defensive front. It’s a clean sweep by GM Ryan Poles to support new coach Ben Johnson.
Fowler identifies Carolina Panthers’ notable defensive reinforcement. Enhancing roster depth was their game plan, evidenced by securing safety Tre’von Moehrig and other key players like Tershawn Wharton and Bobby Brown III at reasonable costs. They’re clearly better positioned now compared to a year ago.
Sports betting analyst Pamela Maldonado agrees, emphasizing how the Bears are garnering attention. Their offensive investments significantly boost quarterback Caleb Williams, and defensive aces like Dayo Odeyingbo and Grady Jarrett turn their front line formidable.
Moody expresses his nod to the Minnesota Vikings, not for losing Sam Darnold to the Seahawks, but for prioritizing both offense and defense in free agency. Maintaining cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. and acquiring Isaiah Rodgers is notable support for new quarterback J.J. McCarthy.
The New England Patriots also made positive strides, according to Schatz, by utilizing their extensive cap space effectively. Acquiring standout players like Williams and Carlton Davis III, they effective bolstered their lineup.
Solak echoes that sentiment, indicating the Patriots aim to transform from mediocre to average. With signings like Harold Landry III and Morgan Moses, they added crucial experience, enhancing their existing foundation.
Meanwhile, Tannenbaum commends the Bears yet again for strengthening their offensive line to maximize Caleb Williams’ performance while addressing pass rush deficiencies with key defensive signings.
National NFL reporter Lindsey Thiry agrees, highlighting the Bears’ strategy under new leadership. Their offseason focus on reinforcing both their offensive and defensive lines prepares Caleb Williams for a more secure second year, marking a promising transformation.
Walder points to the Las Vegas Raiders’ improvement. Transitioning from Aidan O’Connell to acquiring quarterback Geno Smith brought a significant difference, while they retained essential players like Malcolm Koonce and Adam Butler.
Field Yates gives a nod to the Washington Commanders, where quality trumped quantity. Acquiring critical players like Laremy Tunsil for enhanced protection and Deebo Samuel Sr. for offensive boost aligns with possibilities following Jayden Daniels’ stellar rookie season.
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In terms of free agency bargains, Bowen highlights the Miami Dolphins’ capture of wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine. His two-year contract is a steal for a potentially impactful third receiver with speed and blocking capabilities.
For Fowler, the Jets snagging center Josh Myers stands out as a valuable acquisition. Though not the starting center, he comes at a team-friendly price and brings familiarity for Jets QB Justin Fields, recollecting their Ohio State days.
Maldonado appreciates the Chargers’ deal for running back Najee Harris, whose approach suits their offensive strategy practicality. An inconspicuous yet solid investment for tough game conditions.
Moody finds value in the Panthers adding running back Rico Dowdle. Dowdle’s impressive performance with the Cowboys positions him as a vital backup for the Panthers amid their depth issues at running back.
Schatz observes the Chargers signing cornerback Donte Jackson as a wise move, bringing a solid track record at a reasonable rate, despite some risk for future variability in performance.
Solak notes Detroit’s savvy in re-signing Levi Onwuzurike for his natural potential in his actual position, projecting a breakthrough season that’s cost-effective.
Tannenbaum predicts a breakthrough for Jets’ QB Justin Fields under new coaching, positioning his $20 million annual salary as a steal for high-value production.
Thiry praises the Colts’ signing of quarterback Daniel Jones as a wise transitional move while potentially putting a spark behind Anthony Richardson’s performance.
Walder identifies the Titans acquisition of guard Kevin Zeitler as smart business, prioritizing proven reliability in a typically volatile positional landscape.
Yates lauds the Ravens’ ability to re-sign tackle Ronnie Stanley at a fair price, securing a career-spanning role with Baltimore as an achievement.
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When considering puzzling signings, Bowen points the finger at the Jaguars’ decision to sign safety Eric Murray. His three-interception career suggests they overpaid for his contributions thus far.
For Fowler, the Jaguars yet again raised eyebrows by investing heavily in center Robert Hainsey, a move that caught many off guard given his backup status last season.
Maldonado labels the Titans’ expensive bet on offensive tackle Dan Moore Jr. as high-risk, with his inconsistent past performance casting doubts on his potential.
Moody questions the Commanders’ lucrative contract with Javon Kinlaw, given his limited field time and underwhelming output, leaving analysts scratching their heads.
Schatz finds the Jets’ large commitment to cornerback Brandon Stephens, a player who struggled last season, another head-scratcher of this free agency.
Solak, aware of GM Adam Peters’ connection to Kinlaw’s history, acknowledges the skill fit yet balks at the steep salary for modest production.
Tannenbaum indicates Steelers’ unresolved quarterback situation overshadows their draft prospects and Metcalf’s acquisition, casting doubt on their free agency impact.
Thiry remains skeptical about Jacksonville prioritizing Murray, given the hefty contract for limited field contributions.
Walder sums it up with concerns over high guarantees tied to Grady Jarrett and Jaylon Moore, viewing them as precarious investments.
Yates mentions the Jaguars’ aim to fill secondary roles but finds the demographic expectation from such players seems mismatched under new management.
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Overall, the Rams’ acquisition of Davante Adams, as Bowen notes, signifies a significant receiver upgrade, enhancing their offensive strategy under Sean McVay.
Per Fowler, Haason Reddick’s inclusion in the Bucs’ lineup restructures their pass rush capabilities for a formidable defense reminiscent of their Super Bowl era.
Maldonado points out the Vikings’ investment in strengthening their defense by signing Jonathan Allen, ensuring renewed resilience against NFC North offenses.
Moody sees Najee Harris’ alignment with the Chargers’ ground strategy as a boost following a heavily invested offensive line.
For Schatz, Buffalo’s daring pursuit of edge rusher Joey Bosa, despite injury-prone criticisms, represents a bold strike towards prevailing over the highly competitive AFC landscape.
Solak highlights how re-signing Ronnie Stanley ensures the Ravens continue safeguarding Lamar Jackson’s potential amidst their competitive pursuits.
Tannenbaum regards Milton Williams’ alliance with the Patriots as a future-defining play, forecasting stability in Bill Belichick’s defense.
Thiry passionately views the Rams getting Adams as critical for playoff recalibration, amplifying offensive synergy.
Walder respects the Lions’ strategic choice of D.J. Reed, delivered through cost-effective negotiation exceeding complementary Fletcher Davis III pursuits.
Lastly, Yates commends the Raiders’ confidence-boosting move in trading for Geno Smith, merging coach familiarity with quarterback competence to forge a competitive outlook.
Free agency sees teams reshaping strategies and reinforcing positions, combining calculated risks, strategic splurges, and savvy savings in anticipation of a promising NFL season ahead.
