Grading 2024 NFL Free-Agency Signings and Trades for Day 2 of Tampering Period
The first day of the NFL legal tampering period set the stage for free agency with premium signings and notable trades.
On Monday, the Atlanta Falcons, Las Vegas Raiders and Carolina Panthers agreed to terms on the biggest free-agent contracts in total value. Meanwhile, the New York Giants pulled off a blockbuster trade with the Panthers for star edge-rusher Brian Burns (h/t NFL Network's Ian Rapoport).
We also saw an aggressive push for top running backs. Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs, Tony Pollard, D'Andre Swift and Austin Ekeler will all play for new teams next season.
What could happen on Tuesday?
If the Chicago Bears plan to draft a quarterback with the No. 1 overall pick, they might find a trade partner for Justin Fields.
Teams in need of offensive firepower could look further into the running back pool with Derrick Henry and Joe Mixon on the open market. Calvin Ridley should garner interest among teams that need a go-to wide receiver.
Notable defensive players like Danielle Hunter, Justin Simmons, Chase Young and Patrick Queen are also available to sign with new clubs.
Bleacher Report NFL analyst Moe Moton will grade all of the signings and trades from the second day of the legal tampering period.
Vikings Sign RB Aaron Jones
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Contract terms: One year, $7 million
Source: The Athletic's Dianna Russini
The Minnesota Vikings will have a new lead running back in Aaron Jones, whom the Green Bay Packers released after they agreed to a deal with Josh Jacobs (h/t NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero).
Though Jones' production dropped while quarterback Jordan Love made significant developmental leaps last season, he still averaged 4.6 yards per carry, which was tied for 11th leaguewide.
The Vikings can match offers for restricted free-agent running back Cam Akers to keep him in the fold with Jones and Ty Chandler for a three-man platoon.
Regardless, as the most accomplished tailback in the Vikings' running back room, Jones should handle the majority of the touches. He's still on the younger side of 30 and finished the 2023 campaign with five consecutive 108-plus-yard rushing performances.
We'll likely see Jones fired up for division matchups against the Packers. He's in line for a bounce-back year in Minnesota, especially given the Vikings' uncertainty at quarterback.
Grade: B
Commanders Sign DE Clelin Ferrell
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Contract terms: TBA
Source: The Athletic's Dianna Russini
The Washington Commanders' new regime continues to reshape their defensive line, particularly on the edge, after the previous front office moved Chase Young and Montez Sweat before the 2023 trade deadline.
Washington is bringing in Clelin Ferrell, who grew up in Richmond, Virginia. Though the 2019 first-rounder hasn't racked up a ton of career sacks (13.5) in five seasons, he can be a solid strong-side defensive end who sets the edge against the run.
Ferrell flashed in his rookie year with the Las Vegas Raiders, but he lost his spot in their rotation over the course of four seasons. Last year with the San Francisco 49ers, he played 43 percent of the defensive snaps as a "starter" in all 17 games, recording 28 tackles, six tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks and 14 pressures.
Commanders fans shouldn't expect Ferrell to start racking up a ton of sacks in Washington, but opposing teams will find it more difficult to run the ball when he's on the edge.
Ferrell looks like a decent complement for defensive end Dorance Armstrong, who's also expected to sign with the Commanders (h/t NFL Network's Ian Rapoport).
Grade: C+
Vikings Sign QB Sam Darnold
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Contract terms: One year, $10 million
Source: NFL Network's Ian Rapoport
Early Tuesday morning, the Minnesota Vikings agreed to a one-year deal with quarterback Sam Darnold. With Kirk Cousins departing Minnesota for Atlanta, Darnold could see this as an opportunity to be a short-term starter.
The Vikings currently have the 11th overall pick in this year's draft, so they aren't in a position to select a top quarterback prospect. Although Darnold has a high career interception rate, he should be able to beat out Nick Mullens, Jaren Hall and the fifth- or sixth-best rookie quarterback from the 2024 class for the starting job.
For the first time in his career, Darnold played primarily in a backup position last year with the San Francisco 49ers. The 26-year-old, who went No. 3 overall in the 2018 NFL draft, may be able to flourish with a strong supporting cast.
In Minnesota, Darnold will have star wide receiver Justin Jefferson, budding wideout Jordan Addison and two-time Pro Bowl tight end T.J. Hockenson in the passing game. Moreover, Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell has called plays for a top-10 offense in total yards in each of the last two years.
Darnold could have a career year under O'Connell if he avoids too many head-scratching turnovers.
Grade: C
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Panthers Sign OG Damien Lewis
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Contract terms: Four years, $53 million
In recent years, few interior offensive linemen made headlines during free agency with deals that average eight figures. But in two days, the Carolina Panthers made a couple of big investments in the guard position.
Early Tuesday, the Panthers came to terms with Damien Lewis, who will likely start at guard with fellow newcomer Robert Hunt. On Monday, Hunt agreed with Carolina in principle on a five-year, $100 million deal, per NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.
Lewis had an up-and-down four-year run with the Seattle Seahawks, but he proved himself as a decent starting interior lineman for the most part. However, the Panthers overpaid for an average player on an exploding market, and a strong class of interior linemen is entering the league this year.
While the Panthers understandably want to protect second-year quarterback Bryce Young and possibly lean on their run game, Carolina made one expensive dip too many into the free-agent guard market.
The Panthers didn't get great value with this signing.
Grade: D
Bengals Sign RB Zack Moss
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Contract Terms: Two years, $8 million
Source: NFL Network's Mike Garafolo
The Cincinnati Bengals made a splash late Monday when they inked Zack Moss to a two-year deal.
The Bengals' decision to sign Moss came right after NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported that the team released running back Joe Mixon.
As a result of Mixon's departure, Moss could take on a sizable workload as the lead tailback in Cincinnati. He's coming off his most productive season, racking up 986 yards (794 rushing and 192 receiving) and seven touchdowns from scrimmage with the Indianapolis Colts.
Moss will likely share pass-catching duties with Chris Brown, but he could grind out 1,000-plus yards on the ground next season if he gets about 15 carries per game and continues to average 4.3 yards per rush attempt.
Grade: C+
Titans Sign LB Kenneth Murray
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Contract terms: Two years, $15.5 million
Source: NFL Network's Mike Garafolo
The Tennessee Titans may see some upside in 2020 first-rounder Kenneth Murray, who didn't play up to his draft status in his four seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers.
Other than injuries, Murray had limited impact in Los Angeles because he's more of a two-down linebacker with issues in pass coverage. In three out of four years with the Chargers, Murray allowed a passer rating of 100.9 or higher in coverage.
On the plus side, he's used his athleticism to shoot gaps and stop ball-carriers behind the line scrimmage (14 tackles for loss over the last two years).
Perhaps Titans defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson will use Murray in blitz packages to rattle quarterbacks. If not, Murray may be best suited for early-down situations paired with a linebacker who's a superior coverage defender.
Grade: C-
Jets Sign QB Tyrod Taylor
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Contract terms: Two years, $18 million
Source: NFL Network's Tom Pelissero
The New York Jets added a veteran insurance policy for quarterback Aaron Rodgers late Monday by signing Tyrod Taylor to a two-year deal.
The Jets can only hope Taylor isn't under center unless they're on the right side of a blowout or resting Rodgers for the postseason. Nonetheless, he has become one of the best backup signal-callers in the league after three years as a full-time starter with the Buffalo Bills.
Last year with the New York Giants, Taylor filled in for injured starting quarterback Daniel Jones before and after the team gave Tommy DeVito a shot to take over the offense. In 11 outings (including five starts), Taylor threw for 1,341 yards, five touchdowns and three interceptions with a 64.4 percent completion rate.
In a season that may be crucial for general manager Joe Douglas and head coach Robert Saleh to keep their jobs, Gang Green needed a reliable No. 2 signal-caller. The Jets sputtered with Zach Wilson, Tim Boyle and Trevor Siemian in Rodgers' absence last season.
Grade: C
Jets Sign OG John Simpson, DL Javon Kinlaw
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Javon Kinlaw's contract terms: One year, TBA
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
As a 2020 first-rounder, Javon Kinlaw had an underwhelming four-year tenure with the San Francisco 49ers because of injuries and impact plays few and far between when healthy.
Yet Kinlaw showed some flashes last season, recording 25 tackles, four tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks and three pass breakups.
New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh previously worked with Kinlaw as the 49ers' defensive coordinator in 2020. Reuniting with him could help the 26-year-old defensive tackle's growth.
Grade: C
John Simpson's contract terms: Two years, $18 million
Source: NFL Network's Tom Pelissero
Simpson served as a low-end starter and backup with the Las Vegas Raiders and a full-time first-stringer with the Baltimore Ravens. At both stops, Simpson has played at an average or below-average level in run- and pass-blocking situations.
In 17 starts with the Ravens last year, Simpson drew 11 penalties. That was tied for his highest number of infractions in a single season.
The Jets should draft an interior offensive lineman to challenge Simpson, because the veteran isn't a lock to start for them in 2024.
Grade: C-
Falcons Sign WR Darnell Mooney
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Contract terms: Three years, $39 million
Source: NFL Network's Ian Rapoport
After giving him a $180 million contract on Monday, the Atlanta Falcons likely put another smile on Kirk Cousins' face on Tuesday. They agreed to terms with wide receiver Darnell Mooney, who will round out a solid pass-catching trio that includes wideout Drake London and tight end Kyle Pitts.
Mooney had a breakout campaign with the Chicago Bears in 2021, hauling in 81 passes for 1,055 yards and four touchdowns. However, he was unable to top those numbers over the past two seasons because of quarterback inconsistency, injuries and the Bears' addition of fellow wideout DJ Moore last offseason.
Mooney may not rack up 1,000 receiving yards while sharing targets with London and Pitts in Atlanta, but he's going to provide the speed that the Falcons need in the passing game.
Cousins' accuracy (66.9 percent career completion rate) should help him get the ball to Mooney in space, which will allow him to rack up yards after the catch.
Grade: B
Browns Sign QB Jameis Winston
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Contract terms: One year, $8.7 million
Source: Bleacher Report NFL Insider Jordan Schultz
The Cleveland Browns have a new backup quarterback in Jameis Winston, who served in that role with the New Orleans Saints for the past few years.
Winston's days as a starter are likely behind him, but he's a capable backup signal-caller. Between 2020 and 2023, he threw for 2,367 yards, 20 touchdowns and 11 interceptions with a 59.9 percent completion rate.
Last season, Browns starter Deshaun Watson missed 11 games because of a shoulder injury that required season-ending surgery. The Browns still managed to clinch a playoff spot with Joe Flacco under center after P.J. Walker, Dorian Thompson-Robinson and Jeff Driskel all made at least one start in Watson's place.
Walker, Driskel and Flacco are free agents. Winston should be able to stabilize the No. 2 spot at quarterback behind Watson as the Browns continue to develop Thompson-Robinson, whom they selected with a 2023 fifth-round pick.
Grade: C
Bengals Sign TE Mike Gesicki
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Contract terms: One year, $3.25 million
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
The Cincinnati Bengals reached a deal with tight end Mike Gesicki on Tuesday. He'll join Drew Sample, whom they signed to a three-year extension on Monday, as the only tight ends on the Bengals roster as of now.
Gesicki's pass-catching skills have helped him build an NFL career. Between 2020 and 2021, he caught 126 passes for 1,483 yards and eight touchdowns as a key contributor to the Miami Dolphins' aerial attack.
Over the last two seasons, Gesicki had a minimal role with the Dolphins and New England Patriots. However, he can clearly fill voids in the passing game.
Because of his receiving skill set, Gesicki could be a valuable bargain-bin addition if the Bengals move on from wide receiver Tee Higgins this offseason. The franchise-tagged wideout requested a trade Monday, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Grade: C
Commanders Sign QB Marcus Mariota
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Contract terms: One year, $6 million
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
Marcus Mariota is moving from one NFC East team to another.
In 2023, Mariota appeared in three games for the Philadelphia Eagles. Now, the veteran quarterback will go to the Washington Commanders.
In all likelihood, the Commanders will draft a quarterback with the No. 2 overall pick or early in the first round. Mariota could head into training camp with a chance to be the primary bridge quarterback over Sam Howell and Jake Fromm.
Mariota's contract details suggest that the Commanders view him as a backup, which means they may be taking calls on Howell, who threw for 3,946 yards, 21 touchdowns and a league-leading 21 interceptions with a 63.4 percent completion rate last season.
Mariota will likely keep the starting seat warm until the Commanders feel their rookie signal-caller is ready to take over the offense.
Grade: C-
Dolphins Sign Edge Shaquil Barrett
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Contract terms: One year, $9 million
Source: Bleacher Report NFL Insider Jordan Schultz
Between 2019 and 2021, Shaquil Barrett wreaked havoc along the line of scrimmage. He led the NFL with 19.5 sacks in 2019 and recorded a total of 37.5 sacks in that three-year span.
After an injury-plagued 2022 campaign, Barrett logged 52 tackles, three tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks and 19 pressures in 16 outings last season. His production over the last two years suggests he's no longer a lead pass-rusher, but the 31-year-old can be an efficient situational edge-rusher while on the field for 50-60 percent of the defensive snaps.
Dolphins edge-rushers Jaelan Phillips (torn Achilles) and Bradley Chubb (torn ACL) suffered season-ending injuries during the 2023 campaign. Barrett may have to play a lion's share of the snaps on the edge early in the 2024 season before he transitions to a rotational role.
The Dolphins needed a healthy edge defender who could create pressure. This move gives them a moderate boost, but they cannot depend on Barrett spearheading their pass rush for an entire season at his age.
Grade: C
Eagles Sign OL Matt Hennessy
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Contract terms: One year, TBA
Source: PHLY's Zach Berman
The Philadelphia Eagles already have Jason Kelce's potential replacement in 2022 second-round pick Cam Jurgens, but they added more depth along the interior of their offensive line with the addition of Matt Hennessy.
In four seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, Hennessy took most of his snaps at center, with a much smaller percentage of his snaps at left guard. He missed the entire 2023 season because of a knee injury.
For the Eagles, this is a practical move in case Jurgens struggles or goes down with an injury. Kelce had been an iron man at the pivot, playing in every game since the 2015 campaign.
With a transition at center, Philadelphia now has a possible starter at depth at the position.
Grade: C
Ravens Sign RB Derrick Henry
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Contract terms: Two years, $16 million
Source: NFL Network's Ian Rapoport
After eight seasons with the Tennessee Titans, Derrick Henry will sign a two-year deal with the Baltimore Ravens.
Henry turned 30 in January, but he can still handle a full workload. The bruising ball-carrier has led the league in carries for four of the past five seasons, earning a Pro Bowl or All-Pro nod in each of those terms.
Henry's rugged run style fits the Ravens' physical identity, and his arrival should help preserve quarterback Lamar Jackson, who takes a lot of hits as a ball-carrier.
Baltimore lost running back Gus Edwards to the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday (h/t ESPN's Adam Schefter). Henry will likely see 15-20 carries per game with Keaton Mitchell and Justice Hill mixed in for speed.
The Ravens ranked seventh in red-zone scoring last season. With Henry now in the fold, they could be the best team inside the opponent's 20-yard line.
Henry will run over defenders near the goal line, but watch out for his jump pass as well.
Grade: A
Rams Sign CB Darious Williams
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Contract terms: Three years, $22.5 million
Source: NFL Network's Ian Rapoport
Darious Williams is heading back to the Los Angeles Rams. As an undrafted free agent out of UAB in 2018, he worked his way up the ranks under former defensive coordinator Wade Phillips and then Raheem Morris during the Rams' successful Super Bowl run.
Williams then signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2022 and led them in pass breakups in each of the past two seasons. However, the Jags released him this offseason after they hired Ryan Nielsen to replace former defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell.
Perhaps Williams didn't quite fit Nielsen's scheme on the boundary, but he's still effective in coverage on the outside. Williams shouldn't have an issue earning a starting role in familiar territory under Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula.
Grade: B
Giants Sign QB Drew Lock
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Contract terms: One year, $5 million
Source: NFL Network's Mike Garafolo
Early Tuesday, Tyrod Taylor agreed to terms on a deal with the New York Jets (h/t NFL Network's Tom Pelissero), which left the New York Giants with a void at backup quarterback. Big Blue filled that need with Drew Lock.
While no one should expect Lock to push Daniel Jones for the starting position right away, he could have an opportunity to take the job away from the incumbent at some point during the 2024 season.
NFL Network's Rich Eisen heard rumors at the combine that the Giants "are absolutely done" with Jones. Before Russell Wilson agreed to sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers, he had an "exploratory meeting" with Big Blue, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Perhaps the Giants will draft a quarterback, although Lock comes to New York with 23 starts on his NFL resume. He put together a couple of solid outings as a fill-in for Geno Smith with the Seattle Seahawks last year.
The Giants now have a capable veteran signal-caller on the roster in case Jones continues to struggle with injuries or his passing production.
Grade: C
Steelers Sign LB Patrick Queen
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Contract terms: Three years, $41 million
Source: ESPN's Marcus Spears (via Adam Schefter)
The Pittsburgh Steelers signed one of the best off-ball linebackers on the open market in Patrick Queen. The 24-year-old is an ascending defender coming off his first Pro Bowl season with a career-high 133 tackles, nine tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, six pass breakups and an interception.
Queen isn't an elite cover linebacker, but he's far better in that regard than what the Steelers currently have at the position. After Queen allowed a passer rating of 104.4 or higher in his first two seasons, he surrendered a passer rating of 94.5 or lower in 2022 and 2023.
The Steelers have a pair of 240-pounder thumpers in linebackers Cole Holcomb and Elandon Roberts. At about 230 pounds, Queen is a more athletic, every-down defender, and he continues to make strides in pass coverage.
Teams typically overpay for top free agents at their position, but Pittsburgh will sign Queen to a deal that slots him seventh among linebackers in average annual salary.
The Steelers addressed the weakest unit of their defense at a reasonable price.
Grade: A-
Bears Sign TE Gerald Everett
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Contract terms: TBA
Source: ESPN's Jeremy Fowler
You won't hear Gerald Everett mentioned among the top tight ends in the league, but he's been a reliable chain-mover with the Los Angeles Rams, Seattle Seahawks and Los Angeles Chargers. He has averaged 10 yards per catch with 19 total touchdowns in seven seasons.
In five consecutive seasons, Everett has accumulated at least 408 receiving yards while catching at least 61 percent of his targets.
As tight end Robert Tonyan heads into free agency, Everett can fill the No. 2 spot on the Chicago Bears' depth chart behind Cole Kmet. Together, they can gash pass defenses in two-tight end sets.
Because of Kmet's presence, Everett could see a slight decline in his target share, but he'll be a viable option on third downs for whoever starts at quarterback in Chicago.
Grade: C+
Browns Sign RB Nyheim Hines, Re-Sign DL Shelby Harris
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Hyheim Hines' contract terms: One year, $3.5 million
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
The Cleveland Browns added a third-down pass-catcher and special-teams spark plug in Nyheim Hines.
Assuming Hines fully recovers from a torn ACL, he could become the Browns' primary kick and punt returner.
Cleveland may gradually ease running back Nick Chubb back into a workhorse role after he tore his ACL last September, which would allow Jerome Ford and Hines to see more touches early in the 2024 season.
Grade: C+
Shelby Harris' contract terms: TBA
Source: Cleveland.com's Mary Kay Cabot
The Browns have sent a clear message that they plan to maintain their defensive front. They've signed Za'Darius Smith, Maurice Hurst and now Shelby Harris to extensions.
This past season, Harris didn't play a major role on the interior of the defensive line, though he provided quality depth. He logged 28 tackles, six tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks and nine pressures while on the field for 42 percent of the defensive snaps.
At 6'2" and 288 pounds, Harris can rotate in at defensive tackle or defensive end as an occasional pass-rusher or edge-setting run-stopper.
Grade: C
Colts Re-Sign CB Kenny Moore II
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Contract terms: Three years, $30 million
Source: NFL Network's Ian Rapoport
The Indianapolis Colts have once again rewarded one of their own, as they came to terms with cornerback Kenny Moore II on a three-year, $30 million extension.
As Rapoport pointed out, the Colts made Moore the highest-paid nickel cornerback in NFL history, but his recent coverage numbers raise some concerns.
After a Pro Bowl year in 2021, Moore allowed a passer rating of 117.7 in coverage during the 2022 campaign. He recorded three interceptions and six pass breakups last year, but he also gave up five touchdowns.
Overall, Moore has a solid seven-year resume, but his last two seasons under defensive coordinator Gus Bradley look relatively average.
Moore's new salary doesn't match his recent production, though it's hard to find a solid slot cornerback in today's league.
Grade: B-
Commanders Sign DE Dante Fowler Jr.
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Contract terms: TBA
Source: Bleacher Report NFL Insider Jordan Schultz
Head coach Dan Quinn has lured another one of his defenders from the Dallas Cowboys to the Washington Commanders.
Dante Fowler Jr. agreed to terms with the Cowboys, and he'll probably spell the newly signed Dorance Armstrong on the edge.
Fowler, the third overall pick from the 2015 draft, has become a situational pass-rusher at this point of his career. He excelled in that role in two seasons with the Cowboys under Quinn, recording 33 pressures and 10 sacks between 2022 and 2023.
Going into his 10th NFL season, Fowler can still generate a consistent pass rush in a reduced role, and Quinn has shown that he can get the best out of him.
Grade: C+
Lions Sign CB Amik Robertson
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Contract terms: Two years, $9.25 million
Source: NFL Network's Tom Pelissero
On Monday, the Detroit Lions took an aggressive approach to improve their pass defense, acquiring cornerback Carlton Davis III in a trade with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (h/t Pelissero).
One day later, Detroit added a layer of depth to its secondary by signing Amik Robertson.
Robertson isn't a surefire starter, but he could play more than 50 percent of the defensive snaps because of his inside-outside versatility.
Robertson experienced his fair share of ups and downs during his four years with the Las Vegas Raiders. He mostly struggled in his first two seasons before showing improvement under defensive coordinator Patrick Graham over the last two years.
Robertson has given up big plays, but he's also capable of tracking the ball for stops and takeaways in big moments as well.
In certain matchups, the Lions may prefer Robertson to play in the slot because he's 5'9" and 183 pounds. But he can hold his own in coverage against wide receivers who don't have a significant size advantage over him.
Grade: C
Bills Sign LB Nicholas Morrow
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Contract terms: TBA
Source: NFL Network's Mike Garafolo
Aside from Matt Milano, who fractured his leg and tore his ACL in Week 5 this past season, the Buffalo Bills have a young linebacker unit with second- and third-year players Terrel Bernard, Dorian Williams, and Baylon Spector.
Buffalo needed an experienced addition for the middle of its defense, and Nicholas Morrow fits that bill.
In six seasons with the Las Vegas Raiders, Chicago Bears and Philadelphia Eagles, Morrow has played inside linebacker, outside linebacker and middle linebacker with the green dot as the lead communicator of a defense.
Morrow brings valuable versatility and some leadership qualities, though he can be a liability in coverage. In the last two seasons, Morrow has allowed a passer rating of 101.8 or higher.
On the flip side, Morrow makes a ton of plays going downhill. Since 2022, he's recorded 23 tackles for loss. He also had three sacks last year.
As one of the league's best coverage linebackers, Milano would mesh well with Morrow if he makes a full recovery. In a vacuum, Morrow can immediately bolster the Bills' 15th-ranked run defense from last season.
Grade: C+
Bengals Trade RB Joe Mixon to Texans
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Bengals receive: 2024 seventh-round pick
Texans receive: RB Joe Mixon
Initially, NFL Network's Mike Garafolo and Tom Pelissero reported that the Bengals planned to release Joe Mixon. Instead, they found a trade partner in the Houston Texans, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
The Bengals signed Zack Moss late Monday, which made Mixon expendable. In any scenario, it's best to get something rather than nothing for a player who's no longer in the team's plans, though it didn't take much for the Texans to acquire the 27-year-old running back.
According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Houston sent Cincinnati a seventh-round pick for Mixon, which is a great value for a running back who's racked up 1,255-plus yards from scrimmage in each of the last three seasons.
According to KPRC 2 Houston's Aaron Wilson, the Texans made a competitive offer to running back Saquon Barkley before he agreed to terms with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Keep in mind that Houston finished 22nd in rushing last season and lost running back Devin Singletary to the New York Giants on Monday (h/t Rapoport).
Based on recent rushing numbers, Mixon is a significant upgrade over Singletary and should be able to handle the majority load in the Texans' backfield.
Grades
Texans: A
Bengals: C-
Commanders Sign S Jeremy Chinn
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Contract terms: One year, $5.1 million
Source: Bleacher Report NFL Insider Jordan Schultz
Jeremy Chinn is one of the most fascinating additions in free agency because he's a 6'3", 220-pound defender who can line up in various spots between linebacker, safety and the slot.
Over the last two days, the Washington Commanders have been busy rebuilding their defense, which gave up the most yards and points per game last season.
Commanders head coach Dan Quinn had a player similar to Chinn in Dallas, Jayron Kearse, who's a 6'4", 215-pound defender who can line up at linebacker, safety and play nickelback.
Under Quinn, Kearse played his best football, recording 250 tackles, 20 for loss, 4.5 sacks, 19 pass breakups and four interceptions in three seasons.
If Quinn sees Chinn in the same mold as Kearse, he could play up to his fullest potential in Washington. When we look back at 2024 free agency, this may be viewed as the best under-the-radar acquisition.
Grade: B
Patriots Re-Sign Edge Josh Uche
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Contract terms: One year, $3 million
Source: The MMQB's Albert Breer
Just two years ago, Matt Judon and Josh Uche looked like a rising pass-rushing duo. The edge-rushing pair recorded 27 sacks and 67 pressures combined, but they didn't look like the same game-wrecking tandem in 2023.
Last year, Judon missed 13 games with a biceps injury, and Uche finished the campaign with three sacks and 15 pressures.
Perhaps a healthy Judon can once again help unlock Uche on the opposite end.
The New England Patriots re-signed Uche on a one-year deal, and Judon has another term left on his contract. The duo has at least one more season to show that they can build on their chemistry from the 2022 campaign.
Going into his age-26 season, Uche has some upside if he plays in an expanded role. In each of his four seasons with the Patriots, Uche has played no more than 38 percent of the defensive snaps.
Opposite Judon, Uche could have another standout season, though he must also show that he can consistently win one-on-one battles on his side of the line.
Grade: C+
Buccaneers Re-Sign LB Lavonte David
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Contract terms: One year, $10 million
Source: NFL Network's Ian Rapoport
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers retained Lavonte David, who's been a stalwart defender for the club over the last 12 years.
At 34 years old, David hasn't experienced much decline as a downhill defender. Last season, he led the Buccaneers in tackles (134) and tackles for loss (17). He also tacked on 4.5 sacks.
The Buccaneers won't make headlines with this move, but David is a leader for a defense that's ranked within the top 10 in yards or points allowed in each of the last four seasons.
Moreover, Tampa Bay's defense needs a stabilizer as it undergoes changes, with cornerback Carlton Davis III heading to the Detroit Lions via trade (h/t NFL Network's Tom Pelissero) and linebacker Devin White possibly on the move in free agency.
Grade: B
Colts Sign DT Raekwon Davis
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Contract terms: Two years, $14 million
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
The Indianapolis Colts will give Raekwon Davis a decent pay raise to play behind DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart.
As a starter for most of four seasons with the Dolphins, Davis played between 45 and 56 percent of the defensive snaps. Because he doesn't generate much of a pass rush from the interior, his snap count may never reach 60 percent.
The Colts have Buckner under contract for another year, and they just re-signed Stewart on a three-year extension.
Davis isn't a viable replacement for Buckner, who's one of the league's best interior pass-rushers.
With Stewart back in the fold, Davis will likely see limited playing time, which makes this move a bit of a head-scratcher. Indianapolis could've turned to the draft for depth along the defensive line.
Grade: F
Panthers Sign LB Josey Jewell
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Contract terms: Three years, $22.75 million
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
Josey Jewell's decision to sign with the Carolina Panthers could elevate his profile as a playmaker. He will likely fill a void alongside linebacker Shaq Thompson following Frankie Luvu's reported departure to the Washington Commanders (h/t Schefter).
Jewell also has a connection to Carolina. During the 2022 season, he played under defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero, who holds the same position with the Panthers.
Under Evero, Jewell had one of his most productive seasons, finishing with the second-most tackles (128) and third-most tackles for loss (seven) on the team. He also recorded four pass breakups, two interceptions, two forced fumbles and a couple of fumble recoveries.
Evero knows that Jewell fits his scheme, so the Panthers should be paying for his best football years ahead.
Grade: B
Steelers Trade WR Diontae Johnson to Panthers, Acquire CB Donte Jackson
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Pittsburgh Steelers receive: CB Donte Jackson, 2024 sixth-round pick
Carolina Panthers receive: WR Diontae Jonhson, 2024 seventh-round pick
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
In the NFL world, we often hear the overused term "fleeced" after a trade deal, meaning one team clearly gave up too much or accepted too little in the transaction.
In this trade, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Carolina Panthers both look like winners.
The Panthers have acquired a go-to pass-catcher for quarterback Bryce Young, who threw to a collection of third—and fourth-tier wideouts last season.
With Johnson on the roster, Young doesn't have to force-feed 10-year veteran Adam Thielen 130-plus targets. Jonathan Mingo, a 2023 second-rounder, can develop without the pressure of having to immediately become a primary option in the passing game.
Perhaps opposing defenses will respect Carolina's aerial attack enough that Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders could see open running lanes with the safety further away from the line of scrimmage.
Carolina gave up a solid No. 2 cornerback and swapped late-round picks to acquire a No. 1 receiver who's going to take pressure off its young quarterback. Though Johnson may come with some attitude baggage, that's a win for the Panthers.
The Steelers have had issues with Johnson, who held in for a new contract during the 2022 offseason and provided questionable effort on the field this past season, just to name a couple of matters.
Moreover, the Steelers may have a budding elite playmaker in George Pickens. He's denied that he's frustrated with low target shares, but his lingering frustrations have warranted questions about his involvement in the passing game.
Now, whether Pickens wanted more targets or not, he's going to be the lead receiver as Johnson departs for Carolina. Pittsburgh doesn't have to worry about Johnson's mindset on the field or attitude about his future with the team.
Furthermore, the Steelers filled a need in the secondary opposite cornerback Joey Porter Jr. They can insert Jackson into the starting lineup right away.
As a result of this trade, Pittsburgh may take a wide receiver within the first three rounds of the upcoming draft, but the franchise has typically scouted well at the position, which is why trading Johnson isn't a crippling loss. The Steelers selected Johnson (third round) and Pickens (second round) on Day 2 of their respective draft years.
The Steelers got rid of a player who routinely seemed frustrated with the team and added a starter at a position of need, that's also a win.
Grades:
Panthers: A-
Steelers: B
Texans Sign DE Danielle Hunter
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Contract terms: Two years, $49 million
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
The Houston Texans made a major splash on the open market with a strong deal for Danielle Hunter. Schefter notes that the Texans will give him $48 million in guarantees.
The Texans can afford to splurge on key positions with C.J. Stroud on a rookie deal, and their investment in Hunter could elevate this defense to the next level.
With 2023 Defensive Rookie of the Year Will Anderson Jr. on one side and Hunter, a four-time Pro Bowler with five double-digit-sack seasons, on the other side, offensive linemen will have their hands full with the Texans' pass rush.
In 2023, Houston's defense ranked fifth in pressure rate (25.7 percent), but it finished 23rd in passing yards allowed. The club's new edge-rushing duo could boost the unit to the top of the list in both categories next season.
Opposing quarterbacks will have less time in a clean pocket when they go against the Texans defense, which should lead to more errant throws and more opportunities for the defensive backs to make plays on the ball.
Under head coach DeMeco Ryans, who's been a defensive mastermind going back to his time as a coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, Hunter could top his impressive numbers (16.5 sacks, 41 pressures and 23 tackles for loss) from the previous season, which is a scary thought for the rest of the league.
Grade: A
Saints Sign LB Willie Gay
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Contract terms: One year, $5 million
Source: NFL Network's Mike Garafolo
In recent years, the New Orleans Saints have come into the offseason with limited cap flexibility, so they must be financially strategic with their acquisitions, and this signing falls under that description.
Willie Gay will shore up the middle of the Saints defense in the short term, and he could become a long-term starter once Demario Davis' time in New Orleans comes to an end.
Even though Davis has played at a Pro Bowl level over the last two years, he turned 35 this past January. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Davis reworked his contract; he has two years left on his deal.
As a 2020 second-rounder out of Mississippi State, Gay has been a key starter for the Kansas City Chiefs defense that ranked second in points and yards allowed last season. The Saints signed him on a bargain-bin deal, but he could also be the future leader of their defense.
Gay can play on every down with the quickness to track down ball-carriers sideline to sideline, and he's only allowed two touchdowns in coverage through 57 games.
Grade: B
Eagles Sign DB C.J. Gardner-Johnson
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Contract terms: Three years, $33 million
Source: NFL Network's Tom Pelissero
C.J. Gardner-Johnson didn't have nice things to say about Philadelphia fans after he signed a one-year deal with the Detroit Lions last offseason, but he's back.
In Detroit, Gardner-Johnson suffered a pectoral injury and only suited up for six games, three in the regular season and all three of the team's postseason outings.
Despite Gardner-Johnson's harsh words, Eagles fans should be excited to see him in their colors again.
In 2022, Gardner-Johnson led the Eagles in interceptions with six and recorded eight pass breakups as one of the league's top ball-hawking defensive backs.
Yes, Gardner-Johnson posted those numbers under former Eagles defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon, but well-respected play-caller Vic Fangio should also be able to put him in positions to make big plays.
If Gardner-Johnson stays healthy, he can be the glue that holds the Eagles pass defense together after the unit completely fell apart last season, giving up the second-most yards and touchdowns leaguewide.
Grade: B
Dolphins Sign S Jordan Poyer
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Contract terms: One year, TBA
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
The Miami Dolphins reached an agreement with Jordan Poyer to improve their pass defense, which ranked 25th in touchdowns allowed last season.
But the Dolphins may have signed the wrong safety to get the job done. Poyer could be headed toward a sharp decline, and it's not because he will turn 33 in April.
For the first time since the 2019 term, Poyer allowed a passer rating over 90 last season.
With Poyer's increased tackle volume, he clearly spent more time in the box, which means fewer opportunities to snag interceptions in a deep safety role, so it's unfair to point out his zero takeaways in pass coverage.
Nonetheless, Dolphins safety Jevon Holland has played most of his snaps at free safety. If Poyer has to line up closer to the line of scrimmage more often, he may have similar underwhelming coverage numbers in Miami.
The Dolphins' plan for Poyer could be the difference between a bounce-back year in coverage or a transition into a less impactful role alongside Holland, who's coming along as a playmaker.
Grade: C-
Eagles Sign WR DeVante Parker
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Contract terms: One year, $4.7 million (Philadelphia has to pay only $1.2 million)
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
The Philadelphia Eagles will kick the tires on DeVante Parker, who is years past his time as an impact playmaker. He's caught 40 or fewer passes in each of the last three seasons.
Nonetheless, Philadelphia could lose developmental wideouts Quez Watkins and Olamide Zaccheaus in free agency.
If that's the case, Parker could slide into the No. 3 spot at wide receiver behind A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, though tight end Dallas Goedert has been one of quarterback Jalen Hurts' top three targets in the passing game.
When Brown, Smith and Goedert are all healthy, Parker will be an afterthought in the offense, especially with running back Saquon Barkley likely to command a high volume of touches out of the backfield.
Grade: D
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