NFL Free-Agent Signings: Grading Decisions to Sign Wideouts to Big Contracts

The NFL has become a passing league, and teams have started free agency by spending a lot of money to lock up top receivers. Unfortunately, it was not always the best decision.

After Larry Fitzgerald earned a six-year, $120 million contract extension before last season, the market for wideouts is now bigger than ever.

General managers are forced to adjust accordingly and players at the position have been getting some serious money this offseason.

Calvin Johnson, Detroit Lions

Contract: 8 years, $132 million

Calvin Johnson is now the highest paid receiver in the NFL, and that makes sense since he is by far the best.

Johnson makes as much of an impact on the game as anyone in his position since Randy Moss in his prime, possibly more. The Lions needed to make sure he is a part of their future success.

Grade: A

DeSean Jackson, Philadelphia Eagles

Contract: 5 years, $51 million

After a down year in the final season of his contract, the Philadelphia Eagles made a smart move by franchising DeSean Jackson. It kept him with the team and gave another chance for the young player to show what he could do.

However, a five-year contract could be very risky for a player with his history of character problems. If too much money is guaranteed, the Eagles could regret this move.

Grade: C 

Vincent Jackson, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Contract: 5 years, $55.6 million

Vincent Jackson came back this season with a great year to prove that he does not have injury problems or any off-the-field issues. 

The Bucs needed an elite target to help young quarterback Josh Freeman get back on track. Tampa Bay did have to spend a lot to get Jackson, but it might have been the only way to grab a player of this quality.

Grade: B+

Pierre Garcon, Washington Redskins

Contract: 5 years, $42.5 million

The Redskins are expected to draft Robert Griffin III with the No. 2 overall pick, so it makes sense to grab a good receiving target. 

Unfortunately, Pierre Garcon has not shown he can be a consistent force on the outside, and the price seems to be more than he is worth.

Grade: D

Reggie Wayne, Indianapolis Colts

Contract: 3 years, $17.5 million

Reggie Wayne might have done better for himself to look around, but the Indianapolis Colts made a great decision to keep the veteran.

He will be very useful for rookie quarterback Andrew Luck as he adjusts to the NFL, and they still have plenty of money to build for the future.

Grade: A