Grading 2024 NFL Free-Agency Signings and Trades for Day 3 of Tampering Period
The official start of 2024 NFL free agency will begin at 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday, but we're already deep into the frenzy. A whirlwind of deals came through the wire once the legal-contact period began on Monday, and Day 2 featured more of the same.
Notable names like Danielle Hunter, Aaron Jones, Kenneth Murray and Darnell Mooney agreed to contracts on Tuesday. The Houston Texans acquired running back Joe Mixon from the Cincinnati Bengals in a trade, while the Carolina Panthers and Pittsburgh Steelers agreed to swap cornerback Donte Jackson for wide receiver Diontae Johnson along with late-round picks.
Heading into Wednesday, though, several quality players remain available. That includes Calvin Ridley, the top-ranked wide receiver on the initial Bleacher Report free agent big board.
Don't expect the market to suddenly go silent on Day 3.
Here, you'll find grades and analysis for every major signing and trade as the tampering period winds down and free agency officially begins.
Titans Sign WR Calvin Ridley, QB Mason Rudolph
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Calvin Ridley Contract Terms: Four Years, $92 Million
Source: NFL Media's Ian Rapoport
The Tennessee Titans pulled off the stunner of free agency thus far when they signed wide receiver Calvin Ridley to a massive $92 million contract that includes $50 million guaranteed.
It's a hefty price tag for a receiver who will turn 30 in December, but Tennessee likely had to overpay to make it happen. The Jacksonville Jaguars were hoping to retain Ridley, who produced 1,016 receiving yards and eight touchdowns in his first season with the franchise.
A big contract was always likely.
"The expectation is he will put up a rather gaudy number on a per-year average," ESPN's Jeremy Fowler wrote on March 3. "Teams see elite ability there."
Adding Ridley gives second-year quarterback Will Levis a receiver with legitimate No. 1 potential. Was it costly? Sure, but the Titans won't regret the move if Ridley helps Levis develop into a true franchise quarterback.
Grade: B+
Contract Terms: One Year, $3.6 Million
Source: NFL Network's Mike Garafolo
The Titans have a new veteran to back up and/or compete with Levis. Tennessee has agreed to a one-year deal with former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph.
It's a great addition for Tennessee for a couple of reasons. For one Rudolph has shown that he can start for a stretch of games if needed—he went 8-5-1, including playoffs, in five years with the Steelers.
Secondly, Rudolph has been in a similar position before. He provided depth behind 2022 first-round pick Kenny Pickett over the last two years and was ready to play when the time came.
Rudolph shouldn't be viewed as a serious threat to Levis, though given his solid play down the stretch in 2023, he may be used to push Levis in camp. It's a smart signing and a team-friendly deal for Tennessee.
Grade: B
Cowboys Sign LB Eric Kendricks
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Contract Terms: TBA
Source: NFL Network's Tom Pelissero
Former Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Eric Kendricks originally agreed to join the 49ers on a one-year deal, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. However, after the official start of free agency, Kendricks will now pivot and sign with the Dallas Cowboys.
It's a great get for Dallas, which struggled at the second level against the run last season—the Cowboys ranked 15th in yards per carry allowed.
Kendricks' best football came with the Minnesota Vikings, but the 32-year-old was still plenty productive for the Chargers last season. He finished with 117 tackles, 3.5 sacks and six passes defended.
Kendricks has lost a step in coverage—he allowed an opposing passer rating of 101.8 in 2023—but he continues to do just about everything else at a high level. He's also a seasoned defensive communicator who will now reunite with defensive coordinator and former Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer.
Linebacker was a big need for the Cowboys, and with the 2024 draft class looking underwhelming at the position, getting Kendricks to pivot was a big win for Dallas.
Grade: B
Ravens Trade OT Morgan Moses to Jets
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Jets Receive: OT Morgan Moses, 2024 fourth-round pick (No. 134)
Ravens Receive: 2024 fourth-round pick (No. 112), 2024 sixth-round pick (No. 218)
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
The Baltimore Ravens have agreed to trade starting right tackle Morgan Moses to the New York Jets for a fourth-round pick swap and a sixth-rounder, per Schefter.
While Moses just turned 33 earlier this month, he's remained a fairly reliable starter for Baltimore for the past two years. He started 14 games in 2023, although he did allow five sacks, according to Pro Football Focus.
The Ravens will now presumably look to get younger at the position, so there's some value in getting something in return for Moses. Still, this is an underwhelming return for a starting tackle with a reasonable $5.5 million cap hit.
The Jets had issues at both tackle spots in 2023 and ended up surrendering 64 sacks on the season. They moved Alijah Vera-Tucker from guard to right tackle but then lost him to a season-ending Achilles injury.
Trading for Moses gives the Jets a starting-caliber right tackle at a bargain price in terms of both salary and trade cost.
Jets Grade: A-
Ravens Grade: D
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Texans Trade DT Maliek Collins to 49ers
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49ers Receive: DT Maliek Collins
Texans Receive: Seventh-round pick
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
The 49ers are sending a seventh-round draft pick to the Houston Texans for defensive tackle Maliek Collins, according to Schefter.
Collins joined the Texans in 2021 and signed a two-year, $23 million extension last offseason. In 2023, the 28-year-old started 16 games and finished with 41 tackles, five sacks, eight tackles for loss and a career-high 28 quarterback pressures.
Getting Collins for a seventh-round pick is a steal for the 49ers, who agreed to release Arik Armstead just before the start of free agency and added defensive tackle Jordan Elliott on Monday. Collins will help provide San Francisco with an interior pass rush while boosting a run defense that ranked 14th in yards per carry allowed last season.
For Houston, the trade frees up $6.5 million in cap space, which it could use to pursue a new defensive tackle. Reuniting Armstead and head coach DeMeco Ryans would make a ton of sense.
49ers Grade: A
Texans Grade: C-
Patriots Sign TE Austin Hooper, LB Anfernee Jennings
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Austin Hooper Contract Terms: One year, $4.25 million
Source: NFL Media's Ian Rapoport
Tight end Austin Hooper was relatively quiet for the Las Vegas Raiders in 2023, finishing with only 25 catches for 234 yards and no touchdowns. However, the 29-year-old is a two-time Pro Bowler who has shown that he can be a reliable receiving option in the past.
Two years ago with the Tennessee Titans, Hooper tallied 444 yards and two touchdowns.
Hooper becomes New England's new No. 2 tight end behind Hunter Henry, and he'll aid the Patriots' next starting quarterback—quite possibly one taken with the third overall pick in next month's draft.
The price is perhaps a tad high for a backup tight end, but Hooper is an experienced player. He's also familiar with new Patriots offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt, who coached Hooper with the Cleveland Browns.
Grade: C+
Anfernee Jennings Contract Terms: Three years, $12 million ($24 million max)
Source: ESPN's Mike Reiss
The Patriots also locked up edge-defending linebacker Anfernee Jennings in a move that might not excite many outside of New England.
Jennings, a 2020 third-round pick, saw relatively little playing time over his first two seasons. However, when the Patriots lost pass-rusher Matthew Judon to a torn bicep last season, Jennings saw an expanded role.
The 26-year-old didn't add a ton to the pass rush, but he was a force against the run. In 15 appearances (including 14 starts), Jennings racked up 66 tackles and an impressive 14 tackles for loss.
Jennings' best football may be ahead of him, and the Patriots are set to have him for his prime playing years on a reasonable contract. Incentives could push the deal to $24 million, but a base salary of $4 million annually is low for a defender who regularly stuffs the run in the backfield.
Grade: B
Patriots Sign DT Armon Watts, G Nick Leverett
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Armon Watts Contract Terms: One Year, $3 Million
Source: Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston
The Patriots further bolstered their run defense by snagging defensive tackle Armon Watts on a one-year deal.
In 2023, Watts appeared in 15 games for the Pittsburgh Steelers but played just 28 percent of the defensive snaps. In 2022 with the Chicago Bears, though, Watts started 12 games and finished with 35 tackles, 18 solo stops and four tackles for loss.
The 27-year-old is a solid rotational player who should provide quality depth for New England's defensive front. He's stout against the run and he can help generate an interior pass rush.
Watts recorded five sacks and 21 quarterback pressures in 2021.
Grade: B-
Nick Leverett Contract Terms: TBA
Source: CBS Sports' Josina Anderson
The Patriots are adding some depth to their interior offensive line. The team has reportedly agreed to add former Tampa Bay Buccaneers guard Nick Leverett.
An undrafted free agent in 2020, Leverett has largely been a reserve for the Buccaneers, but he did start 10 games in 2022 and performed well. According to Pro Football Focus, he was responsible for two penalties and no sacks allowed that season.
In New England, Leverett will likely provide depth behind guards Cole Strange and Mike Onwenu.
The Patriots have focused on their line this offseason, re-signing Onwenu and signing offensive tackle Chukwuma Okorafor. Adding Leverett is another sensible move.
Grade: C+
Seahawks Sign TE Pharaoh Brown, C Nick Harris
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Pharaoh Brown Contract Terms: One year, $3.2 million
Source: ESPN's Jeremy Fowler
As the Patriots say hello to Hooper, they're saying goodbye to tight end Pharaoh Brown. The 29-year-old tight end is joining the Seattle Seahawks on a one-year deal to back up the recently re-signed Noah Fant.
Brown's receiving numbers have rarely impressed—he had 208 yards and one touchdown last season—but he's a tremendous blocker who will occasionally make plays as a check-down target.
Against the New York Jets in Week 3 of last season, for instance, Brown caught two passes for 71 yards and a score.
Blocking tight ends rarely generate excitement in free agency, but Brown should be a valuable chess piece for new offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb in Seattle.
Grade: C+
Nick Harris Contract Terms: One year, $2.5 million
Source: NFL Network's Tom Pelissero
The Seahawks have yet to re-sign center Evan Brown, who started 16 games for them in 2023. Brown may not be a major priority after he was responsible for seven penalties and allowed three sacks last season, according to Pro Football Focus.
As insurance, Seattle added former Cleveland Browns backup lineman Nick Harris. The 25-year-old has only four career starts, but he has appeared in 40 games since entering the league as a 2020 fifth-round pick.
Harris played 311 snaps for Cleveland in 2023 and didn't allow a single sack, according to PFF.
This is a low-risk, high-upside signing for the Seahawks. Harris is young and could emerge as a starter on a bargain deal. If he doesn't, he's already shown that he can be a valuable depth piece along the offensive line.
Grade: C+
Seahawks Re-Sign CB Artie Burns
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Contract Terms: One year, TBA
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
Seattle is also bringing back cornerback Artie Burns on a one-year deal. Burns joined the Seahawks in 2022, though he didn't see expansive playing time until last season.
In 2023, the 28-year-old appeared in 14 games. While he made only one start, he played 23 percent of the defensive snaps and was effective in a reserve role. He recorded 23 tackles and allowed an opposing passer rating of 89.4 in coverage.
Burns also contributed on special teams last season, playing 46 percent of the snaps.
Seattle desperately needs to improve a defense that ranked 30th overall last season. Re-signing Burns won't make a major impact in that regard, but it does help keep some defensive and special teams depth in place.
Grade: C-
Titans Sign OL Saahdiq Charles
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Contract Terms: One year, $2.5 million
Source: The Athletic's Dianna Russini
The Titans should give second-year quarterback Will Levis the chance to take the reins in 2024, which means improving the offensive line has to be a priority. They surrendered 64 sacks last season, which was tied for the fourth-most leaguewide.
The Titans added center Lloyd Cushenberry III early in the legal tampering period, and late Tuesday evening, they added lineman Saahdiq Charles on a one-year deal.
Injuries have been a problem for Charles, who missed six games in 2023 with a calf issue, and the 24-year-old hasn't exactly been an elite starter. According to Pro Football Focus, Charles was responsible for three penalties and four sacks allowed in 643 snaps with the Washington Commanders last season.
Still, Charles has 18 NFL starts on his resume and experience playing guard and tackle dating back to his college days. He should provide solid depth, and he's coming in on a backup-level contract, so there isn't much to dislike about the deal.
Grade: C
Dolphins Re-Sign RB Salvon Ahmed, Sign DT Neville Gallimore
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Salvon Ahmed Contract Terms: One year, $1.25 million
Source: Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston
Running back Salvon Ahmed is returning to the Miami Dolphins again. Miami claimed the 25-year-old off waivers in 2020, and he returned on a one-year deal last offseason.
While Ahmed didn't have a significant offensive role behind Raheem Mostert, Jeff Wilson Jr. and De'Von Achane, he did appear in eight games before suffering a season-ending foot injury. He finished the year with 149 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns.
Ahmed has also contributed on special teams in each of the past two seasons, and he's well-versed in Mike McDaniel's offense.
This deal might not generate a ton of headlines, but it's a solid move for Miami. With 2023 undrafted free agent Chris Brooks also in the fold, the Dolphins have plenty of backfield depth and can essentially ignore the position in next month's draft.
Grade: C
Neville Gallimore Contract Terms: TBA
Source: NFL Media's Ian Rapoport
The Dolphins lost a key piece of their defense when defensive tackle Christian Wilkins signed with Las Vegas. On Wednesday, Miami made a move to help backfill the position.
Miami has reportedly agreed to terms with former Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Neville Gallimore. While the 27-year-old has never quite lived up to his status as a 2020 third-round pick, he became a solid role player in Dallas.
Gallimore has recorded 90 tackles and four sacks in four seasons despite making only 14 starts.
That said, Gallimore hasn't developed into a reliable starter, and that may not change in Miami. Depth is nice, but the Dolphins still need a viable replacement for Wilkins.
Grade: C-
Bills Sign WR Mack Hollins
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Contract Terms: One year, $3 million
Source: ESPN's Jeremy Fowler
The Buffalo Bills needed more receiver depth even before losing wideout Gabe Davis to the Jacksonville Jaguars in free agency. While the addition of Mack Hollins might not move the needle for many fans, he'll give quarterback Josh Allen another downfield threat.
Hollins was only a periodic contributor with the Atlanta Falcons last season, but he tallied 57 catches for 690 yards and four touchdowns with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022. With the Miami Dolphins in 2021, Hollins averaged an impressive 15.9 yards per reception.
The 30-year-old is a downgrade from the younger and more explosive Davis, but Hollins will aid Buffalo's passing attack. Considering the Bills are right up against the salary cap, chasing a premier receiver like Calvin Ridley on the open market was never realistic.
Signing Hollins gives Buffalo another experienced receiving option, although the Bills should still be interested in this year's rookie receiver class.
Grade: C+
Buccaneers Sign S Jordan Whitehead
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Contract Terms: Two years, $9 million
Source: B/R NFL Insider Jordan Schultz
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have spent all offseason trying to keep their own players in place. Wednesday's addition of safety Jordan Whitehead follows that strategy.
Whitehead spent the past two seasons with the New York Jets, but he spent the first four years of his career with the Bucs.
Last season, the 26-year-old started all 17 games for New York and played 95 percent of the defensive snaps. Whitehead finished with 97 tackles, a career-high four interceptions and an opposing passer rating of 78.8.
Whitehead will likely replace Ryan Neal, who remains unsigned, in the Bucs' starting lineup. He and Antoine Winfield Jr. have the potential to form one of the top safety duos in the NFC this season.
Landing Whitehead at a reasonable price point of $4.5 million annually is a win for Tampa Bay.
Grade: B+
Colts Re-Sign S Ronnie Harrison, Edge Genard Avery
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Ronnie Harrison Contract Terms: One year, TBA
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
The Indianapolis Colts largely focused on retaining players like wideout Michael Pittman Jr., defensive tackle Grover Stewart and edge-rusher Tyquan Lewis ahead of the official start of free agency. Indy locked up another incumbent player Wednesday by signing safety Ronnie Harrison to a one-year deal.
The 26-year-old defensive back joined the Colts last season after a three-year stint in Cleveland. Though he opened the season on the practice squad, Harrison made his way to the active roster and appeared in seven games with three starts as a hybrid safety/linebacker.
Harrison was productive when given the opportunity to play, as he finished last season with 20 tackles, a sack and two interceptions. He had 45 starts with the Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars before joining Indianapolis last year.
Keeping Harrison gives the Colts another young but experienced veteran in their secondary. It's a smart move for a team hoping to keep pace with C.J. Stroud and the Texans in the AFC South.
Grade: B-
Genard Avery Contract Terms: One year, TBA
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
The Colts are also bringing back pass-rusher Genard Avery, who spent the entire 2023 season on injured reserve with a knee injury. Avery also landed on injured reserve in 2022 with an abdominal injury.
The Colts recorded a solid 51 sacks in 2023, and while they could use another edge-rusher in the rotation, it isn't a dire need. Re-signing Avery seems to be a gamble to see if the 28-year-old can regain the form he showed with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2021.
Avery finished that season with 43 tackles, a sack and four tackles for loss.
Grade: C-
Texans Sign OT David Sharpe
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Contract Terms: Two years, TBA
Source: Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston
The Texans should be on a mission to protect budding star quarterback C.J. Stroud, and they added their first offensive lineman of the offseason Wednesday by agreeing to a two-year deal with backup offensive tackle David Sharpe.
While Sharpe doesn't have extensive starting experience (only six starts since 2017), he's an experienced lineman who has appeared in 45 career games. The 28-year-old appeared in eight games for the Carolina Panthers in 2023, and he played two games for Houston back in 2018.
There's nothing to get excited about here, but depth along the line is important, and Sharpe will provide the Texans with a little more of it.
Grade: C
Jaguars Re-Sign LB Caleb Johnson
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Contract Terms: TBA
Source: Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars announced Wednesday that they've re-signed core special teamer and linebacker Caleb Johnson. While Johnson hasn't played a single defensive snap since joining Jacksonville in 2022, he's played 558 special teams snaps and has recorded 21 tackles over the past two seasons.
The signing comes after the Jaguars were initially poised to lose Johnson in free agency.
"The Jaguars couldn't come to terms with LB/special teams ace Caleb Johnson, who is now expected to become a free agent, per source," NFL Network's Tom Pelissero posted on X on March 10. "Johnson would've been restricted; instead he'll hit the open market."
Special teams players are important, and the Jags are keeping a good one after it appeared they might not.
Grade: C+
Chiefs Re-Sign DT Mike Pennel
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Contract Terms: One year, TBA
Source: Sam McDowell of the Kansas City Star
The Kansas City Chiefs are bringing back defensive tackle Mike Pennel on a one-year deal.
The 32-year-old nose tackle spent most of last season on the Chiefs practice squad and appeared in only three regular-season games. However, he played a much bigger role in the postseason.
Pennel appeared in all four of Kansas City's playoff games and tallied 12 tackles, five solo stops and one tackle for loss.
While Pennel is an older veteran, he's familiar with Steve Spagnuolo's defense and has shown that he can produce when the Chiefs need him. He'll provide valuable depth as Kansas City looks to improve a run defense that ranked 24th in yards per carry allowed last season.
Grade: C+
Broncos Re-Sign WR Lil'Jordan Humphrey, Sign QB Brett Rypien
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Lil'Jordan Humphrey Contract Terms: One year, $1.1 million
Source: Chris Tomasson of the Denver Gazette
The Denver Broncos are bringing back wide receiver Lil'Jordan Humphrey on a one-year, minimum-salary deal.
For a team that needs receiver help—especially after trading away Jerry Jeudy—this comes across as an underwhelming move. Humphrey appeared in all 17 games last season and played 40 percent of the snaps but finished with only 13 catches for 162 yards and three touchdowns.
Re-signing Humphrey is a logical move, as he has loads of experience under head coach Sean Payton dating back to their time together with the New Orleans Saints. However, the Broncos are going to have a new starting quarterback in 2024, and with $42.8 million in cap space, they would be wise to take a bigger swing at the receiver position.
Humphrey will help provide depth, but he isn't going to elevate Denver's next signal-caller, whoever it might be.
Grade: C-
Brett Rypien Contract Terms: One year, TBA
Source: Dan Wiederer of the Chicago Tribune
Assuming the Bears do use the No. 1 overall pick on a quarterback, they'll almost assuredly part with incumbent starter Justin Fields at some point this offseason. They added a potential mentor to the equation Wednesday when they signed quarterback Brett Rypien to a one-year deal.
While Rypien doesn't have extensive starting experience, he's spent four years in the NFL, most recently with Sean McVay and the Los Angeles Rams.
That's a relevant connection, because new Bears offensive coordinator Shane Waldron rose through the ranks under McVay and served as L.A.'s passing-game coordinator in 2020 before moving on to Seattle.
Rypien should be a solid fit for Waldron's offense and can help provide a veteran presence in the locker room.
Grade: B
Raiders Sign TE Harrison Bryant
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Contract Terms: One year, $3.25 million
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
The Raiders are set to replace Austin Hooper with another former Browns tight end, as they have agreed to add Harrison Bryant on a one-year deal.
Bryant never emerged as a regular playmaker in Cleveland, but he also played behind rising star David Njoku. However, the talented 25-year-old did flash plenty of upside when given the opportunity, especially as a red-zone target. Ten of Bryant's 89 receptions over the past four years were for touchdowns.
Adding Bryant gives Las Vegas a pair of young, promising pass-catchers at the tight end position. He'll join 2023 second-round pick Michael Mayer near the top of the Raiders' depth chart.
Grade: B-
Eagles Extend K Jake Elliott
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Contract Terms: Four years, $24 million
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
The Philadelphia Eagles have extended kicker Jake Elliott on a new four-year, $24 million deal. His new contract is presumably structured in a way that will lower the $6 million cap hit he was set to carry this season.
Elliott's annual salary will now stand at $6 million per season, which according to Schefter, will tie him with Justin Tucker as the highest-paid kicker in league history.
While Elliott wasn't set to be a free agent until 2025, locking him up now makes plenty of sense—especially if it helps provide a bit of 2024 cap relief. Elliott just turned 29 in January and made a career-high 93.8 percent of his field-goal attempts last season, including 7-of-8 from 50 or more yards out.
The extension will keep one of the league's most reliable kickers in Philly for the foreseeable future.
Grade: C+
Commanders Sign LB Bobby Wagner
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Contract Terms: One Year, $8.5 Million
Source: NFL Media's Ian Rapoport
If the Washington Commanders are looking to learn how to win in 2024, bringing in a seasoned vet like Bobby Wagner should help the cause.
Wagner knows exactly what it takes to compete at the highest level, having won a Super Bowl with Seattle following the 2013 season. While he'll turn 34 in June, Wagner continues to play at an elite level.
A Pro Bowler in 2023, Wagner finished the season with a league-high 183 tackles. He played for Dan Quinn with the Seahawks in 2013 and '14, and he should help initiate a culture shift in Washington's locker room this season.
While the price point is perhaps a tad high for an aging linebacker, Wagner is a future Hall of Famer who has yet to show signs of slowing down.
Grade: B+
Commanders Re-Sign S Jeremy Reaves, WR Jamison Crowder
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Jeremy Reaves Contract Terms: Two years, TBA
Source: ESPN's Jeremy Fowler
The Commanders have been busy retooling a roster that was one of the league's worst in 2023. On Wednesday, they re-signed one of their own by agreeing to a two-year contract with safety and special teams ace Jeremy Reaves.
The 27-year-old appeared in only five games last season before suffering a torn ACL. However, Reaves appeared in all 17 games in 2022, played 81 percent of the special teams snaps that season and was named a first-team All-Pro for his efforts.
New head coach Dan Quinn needs to change Washington's culture quickly. While that means bringing veterans like running back Austin Ekeler, guard Nick Allegretti and tight end Zach Ertz, it also means keeping proven leaders in the fold.
Special teams is an often overlooked but important piece of the football puzzle, and Reaves is a legitimate tone-setter.
Grade: B
Jamison Crowder Contract Terms: One Year, TBA
Source: Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston
Washington is also bringing back wide receiver Jamison Crowder. The 30-year-old began his career with the Commanders in 2015 and returned to the team in 2023 after four years away.
While Crowder wasn't a major contributor last season (16 catches, 159 yards), he knows the personnel and should continue to complement Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson.
Having reliable receiver depth will be important with a rookie quarterback likely incoming. Curtis Samuel remains unsigned, but bringing back Crowder was a sensible move, even if it leaves Washington with room for another big-play receiver.
Grade: C-
Bears Sign OL Matt Pryor
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Contract Terms: One year, TBA
Source: The Athletic's Adam Jahns
The Chicago Bears are adding offensive lineman Matt Pryor on a one-year deal. The 29-year-old spent last season as a backup in San Francisco, appearing in 15 games but playing primarily on special teams.
As The Athletic's Adam Jahns noted, Pryor spent the 2021 season in Indianapolis with current Bears head coach Matt Eberflus. That season, Pryor appeared in 17 games with five starts and played 40 percent of the offensive snaps.
Pryor is unlikely to challenge for a starting job in Chicago, but he has experience at both tackle and guard and can provide valuable depth. He's a sensible signing for a team that's likely to use the No. 1 overall pick on a new quarterback.
Grade: C
Panthers Sign CB Dane Jackson
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Contract Terms: Two Years, $14.5 Million
Source: NFL Network's Tom Pelissero
The Carolina Panthers have agreed to sign former Buffalo Bills cornerback Dane Jackson. The 27-year-old had a down year in coverage in 2023 but was a largely reliable role player over his first three NFL seasons.
Jackson allowed a career-high opposing passer rating of 109.6 this past season. In 2021 and 2022, though, he allowed opposing passer ratings of 70.2 and 82.1, respectively. Jackson played at least 45 percent of the defensive snaps in all four of his seasons in Buffalo.
While Jackson isn't a high-level starter and won't significantly boost Carolina's secondary, this is still a smart signing. The Panthers dealt cornerback Donte Jackson to acquire wideout Diontae Johnson from the Pittsburgh Steelers on Tuesday, and adding Dane Jackson will help backfill the position.
Grade: C+
Dolphins Sign CB Siran Neal
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Contract Terms: Two years, $14.5 million
Source: NFL Network's Tom Pelissero
The Miami Dolphins have agreed to terms with former rival and Buffalo Bills special teams standout Siran Neal.
The 2018 fifth-round pick never played a prominent defensive role for the Bills. However, he has stuck with the active roster because of his strong and consistent play on special teams.
Neal appeared in all 17 games last season, played 80 percent of the special teams snaps and finished with 13 tackles (including nine solo stops). The 29-year-old will join former teammate Jordan Poyer, who agreed to join the Dolphins on Tuesday.
Neal should quickly become a fixture on special teams while providing Miami with some added depth at cornerback.
Grade: C
Vikings Re-Sign DL Jonathan Bullard
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Contract Terms: One Year, $3.25 Million
Source: Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston
Defensive lineman Jonathan Bullard is coming back to Minnesota after a breakout campaign in 2023.
The 30-year-old, who has played the bulk of his career at defensive end, appeared in all 17 games last season with 14 starts. He recorded career highs in tackles (44), solo stops (24) and sacks (2.0). He also logged three tackles for loss and a forced fumble.
Bullard should serve as a strong contributor for defensive coordinator Brian Flores, who is entering his second season with the franchise. Flores helped the defense go from 28th in points allowed in 2022 to 13th last season.
Minnesota already added edge-rushers Andrew Van Ginkel and Jonathan Greenard to help replace Danielle Hunter, but Bullard should find a prominent role in the rotation.
Grade: B
Seahawks Sign S Rayshawn Jenkins, OT George Fant
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Rayshawn Jenkins Contract Terms: Two Years, $12 Million
Source: ESPN's Jeremy Fowler
The Seahawks and new head coach Mike Macdonald are undoubtedly looking to improve a defense that ranked 30th overall and 25th in points allowed last season.
Signing safety Rayshawn Jenkins should help. The 30-year-old is coming off a strong season with Jacksonville, one in which he recorded 101 total tackles, 66 solo stops and two interceptions.
Jenkins started all 17 games in 2023 and allowed an opposing passer rating of only 62.5 in coverage.
In Seattle, Jenkins should immediately replace the departed Jamal Adams and should quickly provide a more reliable coverage presence at strong safety.
Grade: B
George Fant Contract Terms: TBA
Source: NFL Network's Tom Pelissero
Seattle is also bringing back a familiar face in offensive tackle George Fant. The 31-year-old spent his first three seasons with the Seahawks before moving on to the Jets in 2020. He started 13 games for the Texans in 2023 and played reasonably well.
Fant was responsible for only three penalties and three sacks allowed, according to Pro Football Focus.
With experience at both right and left tackle, Fant should serve as solid depth behind Charles Cross and Abraham Lucas.
Grade: C+
Ravens Re-Sign DL Brent Urban
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Contract Terms: TBA
Source: The Athletic's Jeff Zrebiec
The Ravens are bringing back a key contributor from a defense that ranked first in points allowed last season.
While defensive lineman Brent Urban is often overshadowed by some of Baltimore's bigger names, the 32-year-old has long been a difference-maker for the Ravens. He's stout against the run, plays with a relentless motor, can occasionally rush from the edge and can kick inside if needed.
In 2023, Urban played in all 17 games (three starts) and finished with 22 tackles and three sacks.
Urban might not regularly make splash plays, but he remains one of Baltimore's most consistent defenders.
Grade: B
Steelers Re-Sign S Miles Killebrew
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Contract Terms: Two Years, $6.5 Million
Source: ESPN's Jeremy Fowler
The Steelers made a couple of moves to shore up their defense on Tuesday, signing linebacker Patrick Queen and trading for cornerback Donte Jackson. On Wednesday, Pittsburgh made a move to stabilize its special teams.
Core special teamer and backup safety Miles Killebrew will return on a two-year deal.
Killebrew has spent the last three seasons in Pittsburgh after beginning his career with the Detroit Lions. He does contribute on defense occasionally (111 snaps in 2023), but he's an absolute star with the third unit.
In 2023, Killebrew was a Pro Bowler and a first-team All-Pro. The price is high as special teams contracts go, but Killebrew is great at what he does best.
Grade: C+
49ers Re-Sign DT Kevin Givens
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Contract Terms: One Year, TBD
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
San Francisco's quest to rebuild its defensive front didn't end with the trade for Maliek Collins. Later on Wednesday, the 49ers re-signed defensive tackle Kevin Givens on a one-year deal.
Givens appeared in all 17 games last season and has appeared in 30 over the last two years. While he was an 11-game starter in 2022 and played more of a reserve role in 2023, Givens' production didn't really suffer. The 27-year-old recorded 22 tackles, 12 solo stops, 1.5 sacks and three tackles for loss while playing just 36 percent of the defensive snaps.
While Givens isn't one of the headliners of San Francisco's vaunted defense, he's a high-level rotational player who will aid the 49ers for a sixth season.
Grade: C+
Colts Sign QB Joe Flacco
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Contract Terms: One Year, $8.7 Million
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
The Colts have found their veteran backup for second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson.
On Wednesday, Indianapolis agreed to terms with reigning Comeback Player of the Year winner Joe Flacco. While the price is on the higher side for a backup quarterback, Flacco is a terrific option for Indy.
Richardson suffered a significant season-ending shoulder injury as a rookie, and while he's expected to be ready for the regular season, the Colts will be cautious with him. Flacco showed late last season that he can still play winning football if needed.
And the 39-year-old is as experienced as they come. He's the perfect quarterback to mentor Richardson through his sophomore campaign.
Grade: B+
Cardinals Sign OT Jonah Williams
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Contract Terms: Two Years, $30 Million
Source: ESPN's Adam Schefter
The Arizona Cardinals released longtime starting tackle D.J. Humphries on Wednesday, which wasn't unexpected. Humphries suffered a torn ACL in late December and may not be ready for the start of the season. The move also saves $9 million in cap space.
To help replace Humphries, the Cardinals are adding former Cincinnati Bengals tackle Jonah Williams.
On the plus side, Williams has experience starting at right and left tackle, which gives Arizona some flexibility with 2023 first-round pick Paris Johnson Jr. Williams showed some improvement as a run-blocker after moving to the right side in 2023, so Johnson may now make the move to left tackle.
Unfortunately, Williams has struggled in pass protection regardless of where he's lined up. In 2023, the 26-year-old was responsible for five penalties and eight sacks allowed, according to Pro Football Focus.
Williams was one of the better options on an underwhelming tackle market, but at $15 million annually with $19 million guaranteed, the Cardinals overpaid.
Grade: C-
Bengals Sign DT Sheldon Rankins
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Contract Terms: Two Years, $26 Million
Source: NFL Network's Mike Garafolo
The Cincinnati Bengals made their second defensive splash of free agency when they signed defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins to a two-year deal on Wednesday. The former Texans standout will join former Ravens safety Geno Stone in Lou Anarumo's defense this season.
Rankins is now on his fourth team in five seasons, but he remains a difference-maker against both the run and the pass. The 29-year-old finished the 2023 season with 37 tackles, six sacks, 12 quarterback pressures and a fumble recovery for a touchdown.
Adding Rankins is big for Cincinnati, which has had D.J. Reader manning the middle of its front over the past four seasons. However, Reader, who remains unsigned, suffered a torn quad in December.
Rankins will help reload Cincinnati's front seven, and he comes in at a pretty fair price point for what is an increasingly coveted position.
Grade: B
Titans Re-Sign K Nick Folk
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Contract Terms: One Year, $3.76 Million
Source: NFL Network's Tom Pelissero
While the Titans have been busy reshaping their offense, they took time to help ensure that special teams won't be a liability in 2024.
Tennessee will be keeping kicker Nick Folk on a one-year contract. The 39-year-old was extremely reliable in 2023, his first season with the franchise. Folk made a league-high 96.7 percent of his field-goal attempts last season. He also made 93.3 percent of his point-after tries.
Folk will turn 40 in November, and the Titans should still be in the hunt for a future kicker, but bringing back the specialist was the right move.
Grade: B
Browns Sign TE Giovanni Ricci
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Contract Terms: TBA
Source: NFL Network's Mike Garafolo
The Browns lost backup tight end Harrison Bryant to Las Vegas but may have found a potential replacement in Giovanni Ricci.
The former Panthers hybrid tight end/fullback entered the league as a 2020 undrafted free agent and made his way onto the active roster by Year 2. Ricci never earned a significant role on offense in Carolina, but he did flash as a blocker and occasional pass-catcher—he had eight catches for 100 yards in 2022.
The 27-year-old played 647 special teams snaps over the past three years, and special teams is likely his best path to making Cleveland's roster. Head coach Kevin Stefanski does favor using multiple tight ends, though, and Ricci will give the Browns another option.
Grade: C
Jets Re-Sign P Thomas Morstead
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Contract Terms: Two years, $5 million
Source: ESPN's Rich Cimini
The Jets are bringing back veteran punter Thomas Morstead on a two-year contract.
Morstead, who turned 38 earlier this month, is in his second stint with the Jets after spending his first 12 NFL seasons with the New Orleans Saints. Due to New York's offensive inefficiency last season, he became a huge contributor.
The former Pro Bowler led the league in punts (99) and punting yards (4,831) while ranking 11th in yards per punt.
Ideally, the Jets won't have to rely on their punting game as much in 2024 with a (hopefully) healthy Aaron Rodgers under center. Still, it was wise of them to keep their special teams star in the fold.
Grade: C
Browns Re-Sign P Corey Bojorquez
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Contract Terms: Two years, TBA
Source: Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com
Punters are important, and teams either have a reliable one, or they don't. The Browns have gotten good results out of Corey Bojorquez over the past two seasons—he ranked eighth in yards per punt last season and ninth in 2022—so extending the 27-year-old was a logical decision.
Bojorquez did miss a game with a quad injury in 2023, but that's the only game he's missed over the last five seasons.
Will fans get excited about Cleveland keeping its punter? Probably not, but it was the right move. The Browns will now have their special-teams core—Bojorquez, kicker Dustin Hopkins and long-snapper Charley Hughlett—under contract for 2024.
Grade: C
Advanced statistics from Pro Football Reference unless otherwise noted.
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