Grading 2024 NFL Free-Agency Signings and Trades During Tampering Period
The NFL unofficially opened for business Monday, with the league's tampering period starting at noon Eastern time.
Teams can't officially make any moves until the new league year opens on Wednesday. But agreements are already being made.
The first wave of free agency is where the big deals occur. However, this year's free-agency class may be as flush as initially anticipated.
Kansas City Chiefs cornerback L'Jarius Sneed, Jacksonville Jaguars edge-rusher Josh Allen, Carolina Panthers edge-rusher Brian Burns, Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins and Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Antoine Winfield Jr. all received the franchise tag.
Meanwhile, Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones, Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Justin Madubuike, Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson, Houston Texans tight end Dalton Schultz, New England Patriots tight end Hunter Henry, Los Angeles Rams guard Kevin Dotson, Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield and Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans have already re-signed with their respective teams.
Plenty of talent is still available in free agency, though. The feeding frenzy will begin once the teams are allowed to agree with players on contracts.
Some of the highest-profile agreements didn't wait, though. The Pittsburgh Steelers opened the new league year festivities with a big splash at quarterback. Less than a day later, Kirk Cousins shifted the landscape by joining the Atlanta Falcons.
Steelers Sign QB Russell Wilson
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Contract Terms: One year, $1.2 million
With the clock nearing midnight Sunday, Russell Wilson announced that he will sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Denver Broncos agreed to release Wilson and will take on a staggering $85 million in dead money over the next two seasons. The nine-time Pro Bowler responded by setting up meetings with the New York Giants and Steelers, and he chose to join the latter.
This is a positive move by the Steelers on multiple fronts.
The organization wasn't content with its previous quarterback situation. While 2022 first-round pick Kenny Pickett is entering his third season, Pittsburgh's offense has been unable to consistently move the ball or score with him under center. The Steelers needed to add competition for Pickett at the very least, if not outright replace him.
Since the Broncos are paying the vast majority of Wilson's $39 million salary this season, the Steelers didn't need to do them any favors by offsetting more of the deal. This is a low-risk, potentially high-reward signing.
Wilson should be viewed as upgrade over Pickett. He's a more athletic option and a better downfield passer. At this point in the 12-year veteran's career, how much so is in question. But the Steelers are better overall than they were yesterday.
However, Wilson's fit is a potential serious problem here.
New offensive coordinator Arthur Smith tends to build his offenses around a strong run game and a play-action passing scheme that regularly attacks the deep middle of the field. Wilson proved throughout his career that he's far more comfortable working outside the numbers than the middle. Smith likely isn't going to let him cook as much as the aging quarterback may still want, too.
Once the Steelers officially sign Wilson, they'll have improved at quarterback. The organization got a great deal. But at best, Pittsburgh has the third-best quarterback in the AFC North this fall, so this signing doesn't move the needle in any particular direction.
Grade: C+
Jaguars Sign C Mitch Morse
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Contract Terms: Two years, $10.5 million; $7 million guaranteed
The Jacksonville Jaguars clearly wanted to secure a solid offensive interior this offseason. They did so by signing left guard Ezra Cleveland to a contract extension, restructuring right guard Brandon Scherff's contract and bringing in veteran center Mitch Morse to solidify the group.
Morse agreed to terms on a two-year, $10.5 million deal with the Jaguars that contains $7 million in guaranteed money, according to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo. The Buffalo Bills released the 31-year-old last week after five seasons and 77 regular-season starts.
While Morse clearly isn't a long-term solution for the Jags, he should be viewed as a stabilizing force to help quarterback Trevor Lawrence's development. Previous snapper Luke Fortner was the weak link among last year's front five, whereas Morse has seen it all and done it all at a relatively high level.
According to Pro Football Focus, Morse allowed only one sack last season. More importantly, he can help Lawrence with his pre-snap identification and protection calls. Meanwhile, Fortner can now serve in a more appropriate role as the utility lineman along Jacksonville's offensive interior.
By signing Morse, the Jaguars upgraded a priority position and created better overall depth along an important unit.
Grade: B
Lions Re-Sign OL Graham Glasgow
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Contract Terms: Three years, $20 million; $9.5 million guaranteed
The Detroit Lions are keeping the league's best offensive line mostly intact.
According to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, the Lions and veteran guard Graham Glasgow agreed to a new three-year, $20 million deal with $9.5 million in guaranteed money.
When right guard Halapoulivaati Vaitai suffered a season-ending knee injury last year, Glasgow filled the void, and the offensive line didn't miss a beat. The 31-year-old veteran bounced back and forth between both guard spots and center until Week 15, where he settled in on the right side and solidified a front five for a team that made it all the way to the NFC Championship Game.
With Vaitai also set to enter free agency, the Lions had a choice to make. Graham played well last season. He's versatile enough to play multiple positions. And his average annual salary doesn't even crack the top 15 highest-paid guards.
While Jonah Jackson's departure to the Los Angeles Rams will hurt, the Lions made an smart move at an excellent value by retaining Glasgow to help keep their identity in place.
Grade: B+
Colts Sign LB Zaire Franklin to Contract Extension
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Contract Terms: Three years, $31.26 million
The Indianapolis Colts surprised many when they chose to abruptly release former All-Pro linebacker Shaquille Leonard during the 2023 campaign. They did so for two reasons.
First, Leonard was no longer the same star because of a lingering back issue. Second, the Colts were comfortable with the other linebackers on the roster, namely Zaire Franklin.
The Colts didn't plan to have Franklin starting in the middle of Gus Bradley's defense going into the 2022 campaign. It was Leonard's job to lose. But injuries destroyed his season, and Franklin blossomed.
The 2018 seventh-round pick developed into one of the game's top tacklers. Over the last two seasons, Franklin finished top four in total tackles leaguewide during both campaigns. Last year, he set a career-high with 179 registered stops, which ranked second overall.
The Colts typically prefer to develop and re-sign their own players. As such, they rewarded Franklin with a new three-year, $31.26 million deal on Monday, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Franklin is a fantastic story of perseverance and taking advantage of opportunities when they arise. As a result, he'll man the middle of the Colts defense for the foreseeable future.
Grade: B+
Jets, Buccaneers Re-Sign Kickers
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Chase McLaughlin Contract Terms: Three years
Greg Zuerlein Contract Terms: Two years, $8.4 million
Kickers Chase McLaughlin and Greg Zuerlein aren't going anywhere. Instead, the two veteran kickers re-signed with their respective teams on Monday.
McLaughlin and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers agreed to a new three-year contract, though financial details have yet to be revealed. As the Tampa Bay Times' Rick Stroud noted, the 27-year-old "set a club record [in 2023] by connecting on 29 of 31 field-goal attempts for 93.5 percent. He also made seven of eight from 50 yards or more."
As for Zuerlein, he's found a home with the New York Jets. The man known as "Legatron" won the Jets job in 2022, and he'll remain a part of Gang Green after signing a two-year, $8.4 million, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
Zuerlein tied for second leaguewide last year with 35 made field goals, and he converted 18 of his 20 attempts that were 40 or more yards.
Kickers are players, too. These moves may not be the biggest news, but consistency at such a volatile position is vital.
McLaughlin Grade: B
Zuerlein Grade: B
Eagles Re-Sign OG Landon Dickerson
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Contract Terms: Four years, $87 million; $50 million guaranteed
The Philadelphia Eagles must move forward without future Hall of Fame center Jason Kelce, who chose to retire this offseason. They responded by making sure their standout offensive line remains a strength.
The Eagles made Landon Dickerson the NFL's highest-paid guard by signing the 25-year-old to a four-year, $84 million contract extension that has a max value of $87 million, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
Even at the lower figure, Dickerson's average annual salary eclipses the record five-year, $102.5 million deal that the Atlanta Falcons' Chris Lindstrom signed last offseason.
Dickerson's extension should help ensure stability along the Eagles' line. With Kelce retiring, right guard Cam Jurgens is expected to slide over to his natural position of center. Sua Opeta could slide into Jurgens' vacated spot, and the Eagles' talented front should keep chugging along.
Dickerson is a tone-setter. With Kelce gone, someone will be looked at as the tip of the spear along the interior. The Eagles seem to think the 2021 second-round pick is that person, and they paid him as such Monday.
Grade: B
Colts Re-Sign WR Michael Pittman Jr.
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Contract Terms: Three years, $71.5 million; $46 million guaranteed
The Indianapolis Colts franchise-tagged wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. ahead of the March 5 deadline, but they didn't do so to prevent him from hitting the market. Instead, the move allowed the two sides to continue negotiations.
According to Bleacher Report's Jordan Schultz, Pittman is now expected to sign a three-year, $71.5 million extension with $46 million guaranteed.
From a financial perspective, this is win for both sides. The Colts take on a relatively solid numbers with an average annual salary at $23.8 million, which currently ranks eighth among wide receiver contracts. The guaranteed money is the third-most among wide receivers, and Pittman will get to test the market again before he turns 30.
The 26-year-old is coming off a career year with 109 receptions for 1,152 yards and four touchdowns. He'll now continue being the security blanket for second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson.
Everything the Colts do moving forward should cater to Richardson. Extending Pittman was the first step. More should be forthcoming, whether via free agency or the draft.
Grade: B+
Bears Sign RB D'Andre Swift
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Contract Terms: Three years, $24 million; $15.3 million guaranteed
The Chicago Bears were the first to make a big signing after the actual start of the league's free-agent negotiating window by agreeing to terms with...*checks notes*...a running back.
Yes, you read that correctly. The depressed running back market was the first off the board, when the Bears agreed to a three-year, $24 million deal with former Philadelphia Eagles ball-carrier D'Andre Swift, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.
The move feels like a departure from the Bears' previous modus operandi. Chicago is bringing in a legitimate weapon to help its quarterback, which will likely be a rookie courtesy of this year's No. 1 overall pick after spending years toiling without much offensive talent around Justin Fields.
Last season with the Eagles, Swift forced 45 missed tackles and broke 23 runs that went for 10 or more yards, according to Pro Football Focus. The Bears must not have seen the same level of explosiveness in Khalil Herbert or Roschon Johnson.
The 2020 second-round pick is also an accomplished receiver out of the backfield. Swift has caught 39 or more passes in each of his first four seasons, while Johnson led the Bears running backs last season with 34 grabs.
At $8 million per year, the 25-year-old Swift now ranks sixth in average annual salary among running backs.
Grade: B+
Bills Re-Sign LT Dion Dawkins
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Contract Terms: Three years, $60.5 million
After the Buffalo Bills spent the past week blowing up their roster, longtime left tackle Dion Dawkins decided to play with Bills Mafia's emotions by intimating on social media that he was leaving the team as well.
He swerved Buffalo faithful, because he actually agreed to sign a three-year, $60.5 million contract extension, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
The Bills took Dawkins with a second-round pick in the 2017 NFL draft. He's started all but six of the 112 regular-season games that he's played, and five of those came during his rookie season.
Dawkins is now the NFL's sixth-highest-paid offensive tackle with an average annual salary of nearly $20.2 million.
His extension shows that the Bills aren't fully tearing down their roster. Instead, they're reworking the roster by moving on from an aging safety, an injury-plagued cornerback and a long-in-the-tooth center with a replacement plan already in place.
The core of the Bills remains the same and centers on Dawkins, quarterback Josh Allen, wide receiver Stefon Diggs, tight end Dalton Kincaid, defensive tackle Ed Oliver and linebacker Matt Milano.
Grade: B
Vikings Sign Edge Jonathan Greenard
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Contract Terms: Four years, $76 million; $42 million guaranteed
The Minnesota Vikings seemingly realized that Danielle Hunter is almost certainly moving on and already agreed to terms on his replacement. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Vikings and Jonathan Greenard agreed to a four-year, $76 million deal.
Hunter is coming off a career year with 16.5 sacks, which ranked fifth leaguewide last season. However, the nine-year veteran turns 30 later this year and has a significant injury history.
The Vikings are getting younger by adding an ascending player in Greenard who is also coming off a career year. The soon-to-be 27-year-old edge-rusher registered 12.5 sacks in 2023 after mustering only 10.5 combined through his first three campaigns.
Considering Hunter's career production as a four-time Pro Bowl honoree, he's likely looking for more than $20 million annually. As long as the Vikings bring back free agent D.J. Wonnum as well, Minnesota will have talented young bookends to harass opposing quarterbacks.
Grade: A-
Titans Sign RB Tony Pollard
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Contract Terms: Three years, $24 million
Tony Pollard is returning to his home state and joining the Tennessee Titans on a three-year, $24 million deal, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Pollard may never fill the shoes left by future Hall of Famer Derrick Henry, who is currently a free agent for the first time in his career, nor will he emulate Henry's style of running. But the the 26-year-old Memphis native adds an explosive element in the backfield, particularly as a pass-catching running back.
The Dallas Cowboys never used Pollard as much as they could have as a receiving threat. He originally played wide receiver at Memphis before converting to running back full time.
Joe Mixon caught 154 passes with the Cincinnati Bengals over the last three seasons with new Titans head coach Brian Callahan serving as the squad's offensive coordinator. Pollard can be a playmaker to take some pressure off second-year quarterback Will Levis and a potential mismatch to help a bottom-10 passing offense.
Grade: B
Raiders Sign DT Christian Wilkins
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Contract Terms: Four years, $110 million, $84.8 million guaranteed
The top available defensive free agent is off the board. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Christian Wilkins will sign a four-year, $110 million deal with the Las Vegas Raiders once the new league year official begins.
The Raiders find themselves in a predicament at quarterback. They aren't expected to land Kirk Cousins. Offensive coordinator Luke Getsy spent the last two seasons with Justin Fields on the Chicago Bears, which can be viewed as a positive or negative. They own the 13th overall pick, which puts them behind other quarterback-needy teams such as the Atlanta Falcons, Minnesota Vikings and Denver Broncos in the draft order.
The Raiders are doing the smart thing by building their identity where they can. In this case, it's on defense.
Last season, the Raiders finished among the top 10 leaguewide in scoring defense. That mark greatly improved upon Antonio Pierce becoming interim head coach. Now, Pierce is the full-time head coach. He'll always be a linebacker at heart and likely believes in winning championships through defense.
The Raiders interior was soft. Defensive end Maxx Crosby needed help along the front. Wilkins solves both.
The former Miami Dolphins star has been an outstanding run defender throughout his career, but he also logged a career-high nine sacks last season. The 28-year-old is an every-down defensive tackle who has previous experience working with coordinator Patrick Graham.
The price tag is steep, but Wilkins was one of the few premium free agents on the market. The Raiders addressed an area of needed while establishing who they'll be under Pierce, and they're going to attack the likes of Patrick Mahomes, Justin Hebert and whoever starts at quarterback for the Denver Broncos.
Grade: A-
Jaguars Sign WR Gabriel Davis
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Contract Terms: Three years, $39 million
The Jacksonville Jaguars are continuing to bring in players from the area.
On Sunday, they traded for former New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones, who was born and grew up in the Jacksonville area. On Monday, the Jaguars agreed to terms on a three-year, $39 million deal with wide receiver Gabriel Davis, per Dianna Russini of The Athletic. Davis was born in Sanford, Florida, and he played his college ball at UCF.
While Davis' homecoming is a good story, the Jaguars also needed a serious deep threat.
Free-agent wideout Calvin Ridley led the Jaguars with 17 receptions of 20 or more yards last season, while Christian Kirk had 13. Davis had 12 fewer receptions than Kirk on the season, but he hauled in 12 catches of 20-plus yards. In fact, he led the Buffalo Bills in that category in two of the last three seasons.
Davis is also good working away from the ball. He's going to benefit the Jaguars offense in all phases.
The 24-year-old is not well-rounded enough as a route-runner at this juncture to outright replace Ridley. But he can be a weapon for the Jaguars, particularly down the field.
Grade: C+
Packers Sign RB Josh Jacobs
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Contract Terms: Four years, $48 million
The NFL running back market might be hotter than Oppenheimer on Oscars night.
With D'Andre Swift and Tony Pollard already off the board to the Chicago Bears and Tennessee Titans, respectively, the Green Bay Packers struck next by agreeing to terms with Josh Jacobs on a four-year, $48 million deal, per Bleacher Report's Jordan Schultz.
Jacobs is one season removed from leading the NFL with 1,653 rushing yards. The former first-team All-Pro took a step back last season while dealing with a quad injury and an offense without a quality option behind center.
The Packers are investing in a 26-year-old lead back, though.
Subsequently, Green Bay released Aaron Jones, who turns 30 later this year. AJ Dillion is a free agent already. Jacobs is the present and future of Green Bay's running game.
At this juncture, the Packers' offensive core is impressive considering how young it is. Quarterback Jordan Love, wide receivers Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs and Jayden Reed, tight ends Luke Musgrave and Tucker Kraft and offensive linemen Josh Myers, Zach Tom and Rasheed Walker are all 25 or younger.
Grade: B+
Eagles Sign Edge Bryce Huff
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Contract Terms: Three years, $51.5 million
Bryce Huff made history by agreeing to a three-year, $51.5 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Once he officially signs the deal, Huff will become the highest-paid undrafted non-quarterback in NFL history.
Why? He has a knack for rushing the passer.
The Eagles have always prioritized their defensive front under general manager Howie Roseman. This type of move is in the organization's DNA. At the same time, it's the best landing spot for Huff.
The biggest question about what teams might spend on Huff revolved around whether he can be an every-down player. He never became one with the New York Jets. Instead, he developed into an elite pass-rush specialist.
However, the Eagles featured Haason Reddick over the last two seasons. Reddick and Huff have similar body types, which means Philadelphia should have a plan in place to properly utilize the 25-year-old veteran.
The move also means that Reddick is likely on his way out of Philadelphia. The edge defender, who turns 30 later this year, is already on the trade block.
Grade: B
Falcons Sign QB Kirk Cousins
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Contract Terms: Four years, $180 million; $100 million guaranteed
The Atlanta Falcons went from the worst to the best quarterback situation in the NFC South in one fell swoop. On Monday, the Falcons agreed to a four-year deal with Kirk Cousins worth $180 million, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
This signing wouldn't have had the same impact anywhere else. But in Atlanta, where the quarterback position has been the driving force behind year after year of a mediocre on-field product, a proven and efficient operator behind center is the ideal addition.
Essentially, the Falcons found a pilot after building a jet fighter. The organization repeatedly failed to address the quarterback position, but it drafted tight end Kyle Pitts, wide receiver Drake London and running back Bijan Robinson with back-to-back-to-back top-10 draft picks in the meantime.
Atlanta also boasts one of the league's best offensive lines. Quarterback was the only missing piece on offense.
Cousins is coming off a torn Achilles tendon, which is somewhat worrisome. However, his game is predicated on operating through the structure of the offense. He's never been expected to extend or create off-platform plays.
The Falcons lured the top quarterback on the free-agent market. They did so because they had to. With that goal accomplished, they can now begin to build something of substance.
Grade: A
Eagles Sign RB Saquon Barkley
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Contract Terms: Three years, $37.8 million, $26 million guaranteed
Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman has never been shy about mentioning how much the organization values the running back position. He proved it by coming to terms on a three-year, $37.8 million contract with Saquon Barkley that could be worth up to $46.8 million and includes $26 million fully guaranteed at signing, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Barkley is a quality back, but this is an overpay based on the current market.
Barkley isn't clearly better than Jonathan Taylor of the Indianapolis Colts or Nick Chubb of the Cleveland Browns. However, he will sign a deal worth more annually than Taylor if he hits his escalators and more than Chubb if he doesn't.
Considering the other signings Monday, the Eagles will pay Barkley approximately $4-5 million more annually than the likes of D'Andre Swift and Tony Pollard after they agreed to terms with the Chicago Bears and Tennessee Titans, respectively.
Barkley should be successful for the Eagles in Kellen Moore's offense. Philadelphia probably wants to go back to more of a run-heavy scheme with Barkley as a featured piece. Yet they paid heavily for his services when he's played a full regular-season slate only once during his six-year NFL career.
Grade: D+
Rams Signs OG Jonah Jackson, TE Colby Parkinson
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Jonah Jackson Contract Terms: Three years, $51 million, $34 million guaranteed
Colby Parkinson Contract Terms: Three years, $22.5 million, $15.5 million guaranteed
The Los Angeles Rams plan to help quarterback Matthew Stafford at all costs.
The organization began by signing right guard Kevin Dotson to a three-year, $48 million contract extension last week. On Monday, the Rams agreed to terms with left guard Jonah Jackson on a three-year $51 million deal, per NFL Network's Mike Garafolo. Los Angeles general manager Les Snead also added another option in the passing game in tight end Colby Parkinson, who will sign a three-year, $22.5 million deal, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Let's start along the offensive interior. Dotson and Jackson should form an excellent guard duo. But Jackson's inclusion will likely move last year's second-round draft pick, Steve Avila, to center as a replacement for Coleman Shelton.
Parkinson is a big target at 6'7", and he comes from a Seattle Seahawks offense previously led by Shane Waldron, who coached with Sean McVay for four seasons from 2017 to '20. Also, starter Tyler Higbee is 31 years old, with no guaranteed money on his current deal beyond this season.
Considering what the Rams already have at wide receiver and Kyren Williams' emergence last season, Los Angeles should find themselves among the league's top-five offenses after these additions.
Jackson Grade: B
Parkinson Grade: C+
Panthers Sign OG Robert Hunt
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Contract Terms: Five years, $100 million
The Carolina Panthers must make life easier on quarterback Bryce Young and place last year's No. 1 overall draft pick in a position to succeed. By addressing the offensive interior, the team provides better protection while also giving the smaller signal-caller a better pocket to see down the field.
So, the Panthers will complete a classic overpay by a bad team after agreeing to a five-year, $100 million contract with guard Robert Hunt, per NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.
The move was necessary after Young endured 62 sacks during his rookie season, which ranked second-worst among quarterbacks last year.
Comparatively, Hunt will make $3 million-$4 million more annually than fellow guards Kevin Dotson and Jonah Jackson, both of whom signed with the Los Angeles Rams. The Panthers' new blocker is now in the same financial range as the Atlanta Falcons' Chris Lindstrom and Indianapolis Colts' Quenton Nelson. Hunt is an upgrade, but he's not that caliber of player.
Grade: C-
Packers Sign S Xavier McKinney
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Contract Terms: Four years, $68 million
The Green Bay Packers defense needed change after last season. Head coach Matt LaFleur fired defensive coordinator Joe Barry and hired Jim Hafley as his replacement.
Safeties Darnell Savage Jr. and Rudy Ford are free agents and are not expected back. Instead, the Packers plan to sign Xavier McKinney to a four-year, $68 million contract, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.
At $17 million annually, McKinney will be the league's seventh-highest-paid non-franchise-tagged safety. He's worth the price, because the 2020 second-round pick will serve as an eraser along the back end.
According to Pro Football Focus, McKinney didn't allow a single touchdown when in coverage last season with the New York Giants. In fact, he holds the highest coverage grade while playing free safety since entering the league.
NFL Next Gen Stats noted that "McKinney forced a tight window on a league-leading 30.8 percent of his targets when aligned as a safety last season," while the Packers "forced a tight window on just 12.4 percent of pass attempts in 2023, third-lowest in the NFL."
Grade: A-
Titans Sign C Lloyd Cushenberry III
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Contract Terms: Four years, $50 million, $26 million
The Tennessee Titans fielded the league's worst offensive line last season, but they're taking steps this offseason to ensure that won't be the case again this fall. According to CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones, the Titans expect to sign veteran center Lloyd Cushenberry III. He will sign a four-year deal with a maximum value of $50 million, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.
Cushenberry will give Tennessee an experienced snapper who can help set the protections for second-year quarterback Will Levis. The 26-year-old center has been a starter since he stepped into the league.
According to Mike Herndon, previous Titans starting center Aaron Brewer allowed five sacks last season. Pro Football Focus noted that Cushenberry surrendered only one. He also ranked third among centers leaguewide in pass-blocking this past season, per Sharp Football's Warren Sharp.
With Cushenberry, left guard Peter Skoronski and position coach Bill Callahan developing the team's available talent, the Titans offensive line is heading in the right direction after a disastrous campaign.
The Titans seem to be moving in the right direction while rebuilding a once-decaying roster.
Grade: B
Colts' Re-Sign DL Grover Stewart, DE Tyquan Lewis
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Grover Stewart Contract Terms: Three years, $39 million
Tyquan Lewis Contract Terms: Two years, $12 million
The Indianapolis Colts are ready to run it back this year after a 9-8 finish and just missing the playoffs The reason is simply: The organization expects a healthy season from Anthony Richardson.
So general manager Chris Ballard has gone about his business by re-signing multiple homegrown free agents.
After agreeing to terms with wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. earlier Monday, the Colts did the same with their most important defensive free agent, nose tackle Grover Stewart. The two sides reached a three-year, $39 million deal, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Stewart is one of the game's best run defenders. The 30-year-old defensive tackle missed six games as a result of a league suspension. During that span, Indianapolis allowed a full yard more per carry and 45 more rushing yards per game than it did when he was in the lineup, per the Indianapolis Star's Nate Atkins.
Defensive end Tyquan Lewis will sign a two-year, $12 million deal at the start of the new league year, per Bleacher Report's Jordan Schultz. In a rotational role last season, the 29-year-old veteran posted a team-best 17.1 percent pass rush win rate, per Blue Stable's Noah Compton.
The Colts were one of the league's most dangerous teams last season despite the obstacles they faced. Those within the building clearly understand they're trending in the right direction.
Stewart Grade: B+
Lewis Grade: C
Raiders Sign QB Gardner Minshew II
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Contract Terms: Two years, $25 million, $15 million guaranteed
The Las Vegas Raiders were patient and they still landed a Pro Bowl-caliber quarterback.
No, it's not Russell Wilson or Kirk Cousins. The Raiders agreed to a two-year, $25 million deal Monday with...wait for it...Gardner Minshew II, per Tom Pelissero.
The contract raised some eyebrows, but it really shouldn't. Minshew will be paid as a top-of-the-line backup, which he is, with the potential to start if necessary.
As of now, the Raiders don't have a definitive solution at quarterback. Minshew has his shortcomings, but he's started 37 career games. He's also coming off a season with career highs in completions, passing attempts and passing yards.
While the Indianapolis Colts came up short during Week 18 with a division title and playoff appearance on the line, Minshew didn't allow the team to sink upon Anthony Richardson's season-ending shoulder injury.
In Las Vegas, Minshew can come in as a backup, be a veteran presence alongside a potential rookie or serve as the bridge if no one else is added. He sets the floor. But don't mistake this signing as an indication that the Raiders are out of the quarterback market.
Grade: C-
Broncos Sign S Brandon Jones
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Contract Terms: Three years, $20 million, $12.5 million guaranteed
The Denver Broncos found their replacement for Justin Simmons.
Brandon Jones will join the team on a three-year, $20 million deal, with the potential to reach $22.5 million in total contractual value, according to Bleacher Report's Jordan Schultz.
Simmons is a four-time second-team All-Pro and made two Pro Bowls. But Jones is five years younger, and his base salary will be significantly lower than Simmons' after the Broncos paid him $29.5 million over the last two seasons.
Plus, Jones proved to be a standout in coverage last season. Starting in Week 12 through the rest of the Dolphins' regular season and its lone playoff appearances, the 2020 third-round pick didn't allow a touchdown, grabbed a pair of interceptions and allowed a 39.8 passer rating when targeted, per Pro Football Focus.
Simmons had been a great player for the Broncos. But Denver's front office is paying for what comes next, not what an individual already accomplished.
Grade: C
Chargers Sign RB Gus Edwards
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Contract Terms: Two years
Very few fits make as much sense as running back Gus Edwards to the Los Angeles Chargers.
First, Edwards is a powerful downhill hammer to feature in head coach Jim Harbaugh's preferred physical ground-and-pound attack. Second, Edwards will help replace Austin Ekeler, who remains a free agent. Finally, the 28-year-old ball-carrier already knows the system since he played for Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman when he served as the Ravens' play-caller from 2019 to '22.
Edwards shouldn't be viewed as a featured back by any means since he's never carried the ball over 200 times during a single season. So, let's not go wild with fantasy football projections. But he's a potential tone-setter for a team that will almost certainly look to get more physical in the trenches, with the intent of dominating at the point of attack.
Grade: C
Commanders Sign Edge Dorance Armstrong Jr., LB Frankie Luvu
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Dorance Armstrong Jr. Contract Terms: Three years, $45 million
Frankie Luvu Contract Terms: Three years, $36 million
The Washington Commanders essentially traded Montez Sweat and Chase Young for Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Frankie Luvu, as well as second- and third-round selections in this year's draft.
Sweat did become a difference-maker as part of the Chicago Bears defense, while Young played in the Super Bowl as a member of the San Francisco 49ers. But it's hard to look at the Commanders' current setup and not think they're better off with what they eventually acquired.
Both are ideal fits for head coach Dan Quinn's defense.
Armstrong played in Quinn's Dallas Cowboys D for the last three seasons. He agreed to a three-year, $45 million deal to rejoin his play-caller in the nation's capital, per ESPN's Jeremy Fowler. The soon-to-be 27-year-old registered 16 sacks over the last two seasons while operating in a rotational role.
Luvu can provide a Micah Parsons-like presence.
He's not the same explosive athlete as Parsons, of course. But Luvu can work off-ball and harass opposing quarterbacks. He's a bowling ball of a pass-rusher who plays through blockers. Luvu ranked first among off-ball linebackers last season in pass-rush grade, per Pro Football Focus' Brad Spielberger. The 27-year-old defender is not just a downhill presence, though. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Luvu "led all linebackers in both completion percentage allowed (56.4 percent) and CPOE (-19.4 percent) when targeted as the nearest defender."
The Commanders got all of this for $17 million less in total contractual value when compared to Sweat's deal in Chicago.
Armstrong Grade: B
Luvu Grade: B+
Panthers Trade Edge Brian Burns to Giants
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Panthers Get: 2024 second-round pick and 2025 fifth-round pick
Giants Get: Edge Brian Burns
What a difference two years make.
According to CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones, the Los Angeles Rams offered two first-round draft picks and a second-round selection to the Carolina Panthers for Brian Burns prior to the 2022 trade deadline.
The Panthers refused, with hopes of eventually signing a long-term deal. A contract extension never materialized despite 20.5 sacks over the last two seasons. Instead, Carolina traded its franchise player to the New York Giants Monday for second- and fifth-round picks, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo.
As part of the deal, the Giants agreed to make Burns the league's second-highest-paid edge-rusher with a five-year deal worth a maximum of $150 million and $87.5 million guaranteed.
Big Blue may be far from settled on the offensive side of the ball, but it's clear this will be a defensive-first squad this fall.
Burns will bookend the 2022 fifth overall draft pick, Kayvon Thibodeaux, with the game's best nose tackle, Dexter Lawrence, collapsing the middle of the line. This group will control the point of attack and make life miserable for opposing quarterbacks, especially in the NFC East where the Dallas Cowboys may not re-sign Tyron Smith, Jason Kelce retired and the Washington Commanders' front five remains a work-in-progress.
For Carolina, the organization's inability to sign Burns to a long-term contract extension exemplifies exactly where the team stands. The roster is a mess. The Panthers require assets to build around second-year quarterback Bryce Young. The primary issue is the franchise couldn't maximize its return after finally deciding to trade Burns.
Grades
Panthers: D-
Giants: A
Commanders Sign RB Austin Ekeler, C Tyler Biadasz
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Austin Ekeler Contract Terms: Two years, $11.4 million
Tyler Biadasz Contract Terms: Three years, $30 million
The Washington Commanders didn't just beef up their defense with the additions of Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Frankie Luvu. First-year general manager Adam Peters went to work on the offensive side of the ball, too. He found himself a proven ball-carrier and a dependable center.
Starting in the backfield, Austin Ekeler agreed to terms on a two-year, $11.4 million deal, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.
The 28-year-old never received the contract extension he desperately wanted from the Los Angeles Chargers. He also didn't benefit as greatly as other ball-carriers from the white hot market to start this year's negotiating period. But he found a place where he reunites with a former head coach in Anthony Lynn and should be a big offensive piece with a complementary skill set alongside the physical downhill running style of Brian Robinson Jr.
Biadasz also followed a coach who he had previous familiarity in Commanders head coach Dan Quinn, who spent the last three years as the Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator. Obviously, Biadasz had to make protection calls against Quinn's defenses every day in practice. The center agreed to a three-year, $30 million Monday to settle the Commanders' front five, per the Washington Post's Nicki Jhabvala.
According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Biadasz allowed the fourth-lowest pressure rate among centers last season, while the Commanders' centers allowed the sixth-highest.
Washington may not be making the biggest moves, but Peters is filling needs to place the team in the best position once the draft begins.
Ekeler Grade: C+
Biadasz Grade: B
Browns Re-sign DE Za'Darius Smith, DT Maurice Hurst Jr.
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Za'Darius Smith Contract Terms: Two years, $23.5 million
Maurice Hurst Jr. Contract Terms: One year, $3.2 million
The Cleveland Browns finally got serious about addressing their defensive line last offseason, and those investments, along with the hire of Jim Schwartz as defensive coordinator, provided massive benefits.
Both Za'Darius Smith and Maurice Hurst Jr. were added last offseason. Both entered this offseason as free agents. Both will return to the Browns this fall.
Smith played extremely well last year and provided the caliber of bookend that Myles Garrett previously lacked throughout his career. The 31-year-old defender agreed to a two-year, $23.5 million deal, according to Bleacher Report's Jordan Schultz.
As the Orange and Brown Report's Cody Suek noted, Smith finished 11th among edge-defenders last season with an 18.1 percent pass-rush win rate. When the eight-year veteran is playing, he's a game-wrecker. He may be getting older now, but his skill set is a perfect complement to Garrett's, which only helps the league's reigning Defensive Player of the Year.
The Hurst signing may not look like much on paper. After all, the 28-year-old defender is only receiving a one-year, $3.2 million deal, per ESPN's Adam Schefter. But he's an explosive interior pass-rusher in a rotational role. Last season, Hurst posted a career-high overall grade, according to Pro Football Focus.
With Shelby Harris unsigned, Hurst could take on a bigger role in his second season with the Browns.
Smith Grade: B+
Hurst Grade: C+
Patriots Re-Sign OL Michael Onwenu
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Contract Terms: Three years, $57 million, $38 million guaranteed
The New England Patriots understand their roster requires an overhaul. However, the organization didn't want to lose the talent it already had.
Director of scouting and de facto general manager Eliot Wolf has primarily concentrated on keeping players in-house instead of pursuing multiple free agents on the market.
Prior to Monday, the Patriots agreed to new deals with wide receiver Kendrick Bourne and tight end Hunter Henry. But the biggest piece of the puzzle fell into the place when offensive lineman Michael Onwenu agreed to terms on a new three-year, $57 million contract, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
Onwenu entered free agency as one of the top offensive line options. The Patriots retaining his services is no small feat. Furthermore, Wolf did so at a lesser value than it took the Carolina Panthers to sign Robert Hunt. Still, Onwenu is now the game's fifth-highest-paid guard ahead of names such as Zack Martin, Brandon Scherff, Joe Thuney and Joel Bitonio.
Where Onwenu fits will be decided later, though he finished the season at right tackle. However, the organization signed Chukwuma Okorafor earlier this offseason. He's been a career right tackle, with a couple games of experience at left tackle as a rookie. Okorafor could bump over to the blind side, or Onwenu slides inside to guard alongside the veteran tackle.
The next step for New England is bringing in other talent to fill in roster cracks while potentially drafting a franchise quarterback with this year's third overall draft pick.
Grade: B
Buccaneers Trade CB Carlton Davis III to Detroit Lions
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Buccaneers Get: 2024 third-round draft pick
Lions Get: CB Carlton Davis III, 2024 and 2025 sixth-round draft picks
The Detroit Lions went wild to improve their secondary last offseason. Even after adding Cameron Sutton, Emmanuel Moseley and C.J. Gardner-Johnson, the unit still finished among the league's bottom 10 in pass defense. Thus, Detroit is still searching for help.
To be fair, Moseley missed most of the season with a torn ACL and Gardner-Johnson also found his way onto injured reserve because of a pectoral tear. But availability is a key component when planning a roster's composition. Besides, Gardner-Johnson is a free agent at the moment.
To try to solidify the Lions' defensive back end, general manager Brad Holmes traded a third-round draft pick to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for cornerback Carlton Davis III and two sixth-round draft selections, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
A healthy Davis automatically becomes the Lions' best cornerback. However, Davis has experienced his fair share of injuries, having never played a full season since entering the league in 2018.
This trade is a gamble on the Lions' part in hopes that Davis plays more games than he doesn't, because his physical style of play fits Detroit's mentality to a tee.
Grades
Buccaneers: C
Lions: C+
Patriots Sign QB Jacoby Brissett
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Contract Terms: One year, $8 million
Jacoby Brissett is returning to the New England Patriots. The organization originally drafted the quarterback in the third round of the 2016 draft class, only to trade him to the Indianapolis Colts a year later after Andrew Luck suffered another significant injury.
Brissett reportedly agreeing to a one-year, $8 million deal isn't exactly the story of an individual returning home. It's just another destination in a career that includes four other stops along the way.
But the Patriots provide an opportunity to play depending on how they proceed in the draft. Obviously, a one-year, prove-it contract doesn't indicate Brissett is anything more than a backup or short-term bridge. The Patriots are expected to draft a quarterback with this year's third overall pick.
If that incoming prospect isn't ready to start at the onset of his career, Brissett can serve as a steadying presence the Patriots need to be competitive while waiting for their franchise signal-caller to eventually take the job.
Brissett is an upgrade over both of New England's starting quarterbacks from last season, which makes it a good move based on that factor alone. But it shouldn't be viewed as a significant addition beyond what the 31-year-old veteran can provide in the short term.
Grade: C+
Seahawks Re-Sign DL Leonard Williams, TE Noah Fant
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Leonard Williams Contract Terms: Three years, $64.5 million
Noah Fant Contract Terms: Two years, $21 million
The Seattle Seahawks treaded water for most of the first day of the free-agency negotiating period.
With linebacker Jordyn Brooks and tight ends Colby Parkinson and Will Dissly signing with the Miami Dolphins, Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers, respectively, the Seahawks responded by retaining defensive tackle Leonard Williams and tight end Noah Fant.
Williams was the priority after trading second- and fifth-round draft picks to the New York Giants during the 2023 regular season. The soon-to-be 30-year-old defensive lineman agreed to a three-year, $64.5 million deal, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
Along the interior, Williams provided 54 quarterback pressures last season, according to Pro Football Focus. He and Dre'Mont Jones are tasked with collapsing the pocket and serving as the focal point of the Seahawks defense. Plus, Seattle didn't want to waste draft picks if at all possible.
The deal isn't bad considering that Williams now ranks eighth in average annual salary among defensive tackles and the contract falls within the same range as Javon Hargrave's from last offseason.
As for Fant, he agreed to a two-year, $21 million contract to stay, per Bleacher Report's Jordan Schultz.
With Parkinson and Dissly departing, Fant's retention became a necessity. Fant is still only 26 years old after he led the team's position group last season with 414 receiving yards. He'll now enter a wide-open passing attack under new offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, who should take full advantage of the 2019 first-round pick's impressive athletic profile.
The Seahawks may not have made any major changes, but general manager John Schneider retained two key pieces who should fit well in the squad's new schemes.
Williams Grade: B
Fant Grade: B
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