NFL Free-Agent Signings Everyone Is Criticizing, but Shouldn't

Some NFL teams have a vision of their roster that fans and analysts can't quite see during the offseason.

When the player put on the pads though, it's easier to see a team that is well put together, no matter the price tag.

Free-agent signings were either praised or criticized this offseason, and here are a few that were criticized but really shouldn't have been.

Charles Johnson

Fans want to say how the Panthers overpaid for a player with just one good season, but the truth is that the Panthers proved a point.

While some see Carolina as a lowly franchise, the Panthers sent a message to the rest of the league to stop looking at their players.

By giving their core guys a lot of money, the Panthers show commitment to their own talent and lock up a young pass-rusher in Johnson.

Matt Hasselbeck

The Titans are criticized for overpaying for an over-the-hill veteran in Hasselbeck, but fans need to understand why the Titans did what they did.

Hasselbeck will mentor Jake Locker and keep the young rookie off of the field until he is ready to start.

The former Seahawk quarterback brings invaluable leadership and will be a smart signing when it's all said and done.

Plaxico Burress

The Jets actually got a steal when it comes to Burress, nabbing the former convict for a low-risk/high-reward type of contract.

If Plaxico is bad, the Jets still have Santonio Holmes and Derrick Mason—signing Burress was just good business.

The big receiver can provide Mark Sanchez with a Braylon Edwards-like target, which is worth it for New York.

Kevin Boss

I don't care what their salary cap story is, the Raiders needed to go get a tight end in the wake of losing Zach Miller.

Kevin Boss is well-respected around the league and is said to have good work ethic to couple with his nice skill set.

Boss will be a playmaker in Oakland and will be worth the money they paid for him to return.