The 2017 NFL offseason officially began a few weeks ago on March 9th, which was the first day teams were able to sign available unrestricted free agents. While the free agency period is still currently going on, the majority of every significant free agent available have already signed their new deals. A ton of impactful moves have been made throughout the past month, so it could be tough to keep track of whose signing where, and how much each deal is worth.
To help you keep you up to date with what’s been going on around the league, here is the ranking of the top 60 free agents acquisitions of the 2017 NFL offseason, so far. The list will not include free agents whom have resigned with their original team, it will just include free agents who have signed to a new team.
The list is ranked in order, and is determined by the potential impact the player may have, and the overall value of the contract.
The potential impact of the player could be determined by, if whether he fills a specific need for the team, his previous production, and perhaps has shown some sort of potential in the past.
The value of the contract is determined by several factors such as, comparing the salaries of similar players at the same position, how much guaranteed money they signed, team salary cap availability, and age. Everything that involves the details of contract information is according to Spoctrac.
1. Terrell Pryor (Wide Receiver)
Age: 27
Former Team: Cleveland Browns
New Team: Washington Redskins: 1 year $6 million.
Analysis: Terrell Pryor’s first season in making the transition from quarterback, to wide receiver was very successful in Cleveland. Despite the inconsistent play at quarterback last season for the Browns, Pryor racked up 77 catches for 1,007 yards, including four touchdown receptions. Pryor agreed to sign with the Washington Redskins for just a one-year deal worth $6 million. With the departure of Washington’s top receivers, Pierre Garcon, and DaSean Jackson, they quickly responded, with hopes that Pryor will become the number one option for quarterback Kirk Cousins. Signing Pryor to just a one-year deal is a tremendous move by Washington at a great value ($6 million). It also allows Pryor to have to prove himself for another season, without having the risk of signing him to a multi-year deal.
2. Ricky Wagner (Offensive Tackle)
Age: 27
Former Team: Baltimore Ravens
New Team: Detroit Lions: 5 years $47.5 million, $20.5 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Lions replaced free agent offensive tackle Riley Reiff, by acquiring right tackle Ricky Wagner from Baltimore. Last season, Wagner was ranked by ProFootballFocus as the 18th best offensive tackle in the NFL (84.5). The Lions made a huge move signing Wagner, who will provide an immediate upgrade at right tackle over Reiff (67.5), which even comes at much cheaper price than what Reiff signed with in Minnesota.
3. Alshon Jeffrey (Wide Receiver)
Age: 27
Former Team: Chicago Bears
New Team: Philadelphia Eagles: 1 year $9.5 million.
Analysis: The Eagles addressed one of their biggest offseason needs, which was finding a number one receiving option for second-year quarterback Carson Wentz. The Eagles signed former Chicago Bears wide receiver Alshon Jeffrey to a one-year “prove it deal” worth $9.5 million. Signing Jeffrey will provide Wentz with a very reliable number one option, as well as a red-zone threat that they’ve been lacking. This appears to definitely be a great “win-win” deal for the Eagles. They were able to acquire arguably the best receiver available on the market, without having to put themselves in a hole by taking a risk on a multi-year contract, especially with his previous off the field, and injury concerns.
4. Chris Baker (Defensive Tackle)
Age: 29
Former Team: Washington Redskins
New Team: Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 3 years $15.75 million, $9 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Buccaneers signed former Redskins defensive tackle Chris Baker to a three-year deal worth $15.75 million, and $9 million guaranteed. Baker was ranked the 18th best interior defensive linemen last year (82.2), and will team up with Gerald McCoy, the 10th ranked interior defensive linemen (85.2) via ProFootballFocus. The Buccaneers have been searching for another interior defensive linemen to pair up with McCoy, so the the addition of Baker is a very smart move coming at a great value ($5.25 million a season).
5. Jonathan Cyprien (Safety)
Age: 26
Former Team: Jacksonville Jaguars
New Team: Tennessee Titans: 4 years $25 million, $9 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Titans vastly improved their secondary with the addition of safety Jonathan Cyprien from their arch rival Jacksonville Jaguars. Cyprien, was ranked the seventh highest safety in the league according to ProFootballFocus (87.8) last season. The deal for Cyprien comes at a great value for Tennessee, especially how Jacksonville signed safety Barry Church (who is three years older) to replace Cyprien, and will earn more than Cyprien.
6. Martellus Bennett (Tight End)
Age: 30
Former Team: New England Patriots
New Team: Green Bay Packers: 3 years $21 million, $6.3 million guaranteed.
Analysis: Green Bay Packers G.M. Ted Thompson’s philosophy typically involves strictly only building through the draft, and avoid signing any significant veteran free agents. Thompson shocked everybody this offseason, and acquired tight end Martellus Bennett from the Super Bowl Champion New England Patriots. Adding Bennett should provide an immediate upgrade to their passing game, and gives quarterback Aaron Rodgers another weapon to work with. With the uncertainty of free agent Jared Cook returning, they replaced him by arguably signing the best tight end Rodgers has played with in his entire career. Thompson also signed Bennett to a tremendous value, worth just $7 million a year, which is cheaper than what Dion Sims, Jack Doyle, and Vernon Davis received.
7. Tony Jefferson (Safety)
Age: 25
Former Team: Arizona Cardinals
New Team: Baltimore Ravens: 4 years $34 million, $19 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Ravens added safety Tony Jefferson from the Arizona Cardinals on a four-year deal worth $34 million, and $19 million guaranteed. Jefferson is just 25 years-old, and was ranked the fifth highest safety in the NFL last season (88.6) via ProFootballFocus. Jefferson will instantly improve their secondary, and he will be playing alongside safety Eric Weddle, who was the highest graded safety in the league last season (92.4).
8. Kevin Zeitler (Offensive Guard)
Age: 27
Former Team: Cincinnati Bengals
New Team: Cleveland Browns: 5 years $60 million, $31.5 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Browns entered the new season with more money in the salary cap than any other team. The Browns first move was signing former Cincinnati Bengals offensive guard Kevin Zeitler. Zietler signed a five year $60 million contract, $31.5 million guaranteed, making him the highest paid offensive guard in NFL history. Zeitler has been one of the most dominant offensive guards in the league, and last season ProFootballFocus ranked him the seventh highest ranked guard in the league (87.1). Zietler is a tremendous upgrade for the Browns offensive line, which they now arguably possess the best offensive guard tandem in the league with Zietler, and Joel Bitonio.
9. Dontari Poe (Defensive Tackle)
Age: 26
Former Team: Kansas City Chiefs
New Team: Atlanta Falcons: 1 year $8 million.
Analysis: The Falcons signed former first round pick Dontari Poe from the Kansas Chiefs to a one-year deal worth $8 million. Poe has been one of the top interior defensive line prospects in recent years, but there’s questions regarding his back, which possibly scared teams away from offering him a multi-year deal. The Falcons made a very low-risk signing, with the potential of a really high reward if Poe can stay healthy and produce.
10. Kevin Minter (Inside Linebacker)
Age: 26
Former Team: Arizona Cardinals
New Team: Cincinnati Bengals: 1 year $4.5 million.
Analysis: Inside linebacker Kevin Minter moves on from the Arizona Cardinals, joining the Cincinnati Bengals on a one-year deal worth $4.5 million. It’s an excellent signing for the Bengals, adding a quality inside linebacker at just 26 years-old to play alongside Vontaze Burfict. Minter was graded a (81.0) by ProFootballFocus, and should be a very nice upgrade over veteran Rey Maualuga (38.0).
11. Logan Ryan (Cornerback)
Age: 26
Former Team: New England Patriots
New Team: Tennessee Titans: 3 years $30 million, $16 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Patriots let cornerback Logan Ryan walk in free agency, which then he decided to sign a three-year deal with Tennessee Titans, worth $30 million, and $16 million guaranteed. The Titans made a very smart move by signing Ryan, who should immediately upgrade their secondary by adding a number one corner that they have been searching for. Ryan’s contract is $3 million cheaper per year than Bouye, and Gilmore, and includes a lot less guaranteed money than the other two.
12. D.J. Swearinger (Safety)
Age: 26
Former Team: Arizona Cardinals
New Team: Washington Redskins: 3 years $13.5 million, $9 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Redskins filled a major hole at safety by signing former Arizona Cardinals safety D.J. Swearinger to a three year deal. While Washington has made some questionable moves this offseason, but signing the 26-years old Swearinger to just $5 million a year was a great move. The Redskins desperately needed to add a safety, and Swearinger should provide an immediate upgrade right away. Swearinger was ranked the ninth best safety in the league last season (86.1) via ProFootballFocus, and signing for just $4.5 million a season for three years is a tremendous value.
13. J.C. Tretter (Center)
Age: 26
Former Team: Green Bay Packers
New Team: Cleveland Browns: 3 years $16.5 million, $10 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Browns signed former Green Bay Packers center J.C. Tretter to three year deal, worth $16.5 million, with $10 million guaranteed. The Browns made a great move signing Tretter, who is a quality starting center at just 26 years-old. The free agent market had very few starting centers under 30, and Tretter should be a major upgrade over previous starter Cameron Erving.
14. Bennie Logan (Defensive Tackle)
Age: 27
Former Team: Philadelphia Eagles
New Team: Kansas City Chiefs: 1 year $8 million.
Analysis: The Chiefs lost defensive tackle Dontari Poe in free agency to the Atlanta Falcons, so they immediately replaced him by adding Bennie Logan from the Philadelphia Eagles. It was a smart move by Kansas City by adding Logan, who practically is the same type of player as Poe, which they both ended up signing the same contract (1 year, $8 million).
15. Bradley McDougald (Safety)
Age: 26
Former Team: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
New Team: Seattle Seahawks: 1 year $2 million.
Analysis: The Seattle Seahawks got stronger in their secondary with the addition of former Tampa Bay safety Bradley McDougald to a one-year deal worth $1.2 million. The Seahawks already have arguably the strongest safety tandems in the league with Earl Thomas (90.7), and Kam Chancellor (84.1) via ProFootballFocus. Adding McDougald (79.0) is a great insurance option behind the two safeties, and will now make the Seahawks even stronger at safety.
16. Brandon Marshall (Wide Receiver)
Age: 32
Former Team: New York Jets
New Team: New York Giants: 2 years $11 million.
Analysis: Veteran wide receiver Brandon Marshall signed a two-year deal with the Giants, which he will be staying in New York. The Giants are hoping that he will provide them with a reliable number two option to complement Odell Beckham Jr., and slot receiver Sterling Shepard. It was a good move by the Giants signing Marshall to just $6 million, and it will be very intriguing to see how him and Odell will mesh together on, and off the field.
17. Larry Warford (Offensive Guard)
Age: 25
Former Team: Detroit Lions
New Team: New Orleans Saints: 4 years $34 million, $17 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The New Orleans Saints desperately needed an upgrade at both offensive guard positions, and started to do so by adding offensive guard Larry Warford from the Detroit Lions. Warford, who was the 20th ranked guard graded at (81.5) last season via ProFootballFocus, should provide an instant upgrade for protecting quarterback Drew Brees.
18. Prince Amukamara (Cornerback)
Age: 27
Former Team: Jacksonville Jaguars
New Team: Chicago Bears: 1 year $7 million.
Analysis: The Bears upgraded a much needed hole at cornerback by adding Prince Amukamara to a one-year “prove it” deal worth $7 million. If Amukamara can stay healthy, this will be a great value deal for the Bears, which would definitely help improve their secondary.
19. John Simon (Outside Linebacker)
Age: 26
Former Team: Houston Texans
New Team: Indianapolis Colts: 3 years $13.5 million, $5.5 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Colts signed pass rusher John Simon to a three-year deal worth $13.5 million from their arch rival the Houston Texans. Simon is an underrated pass rusher who has racked up 8.5 sacks in the previous two seasons, despite missing five games last season due to a chest injury. The Colts can use any help they can get on defense, so adding a pass rusher like Simon to just under $5 million a season is a very smart, and valuable signing to hopefully help improve their defense.
20. Micah Hyde (Safety)
Age: 26
Former Team: Green Bay Packers
New Team: Buffalo Bills: 5 years $30.5 million, $14 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Bills signed former Green Bay Packers versatile safety Micah Hyde to a five year deal worth $30.5 million, and $14 million guaranteed. The Bills recently lost Stephon Gilmore to the Patriots in free agency, and have no quality starting safeties on their roster. The Bills will expect Hyde to take upon a larger role in Buffalo, and to immediately contribute in all sorts of ways, which should make it a great addition for the Bills.
21. Jelani Jenkins (Outside Linebacker)
Age: 25
Former Team: Miami Dolphins
New Team: Oakland Raiders: 1 year $1 million.
Analysis: The Oakland Raiders signed former Miami Dolphins outside linebacker Jelani Jenkins to a one-year “prove it” deal worth just $1 million. Jenkins, the former 2013 fourth round pick, previously accumulated 110 tackles in 2014 for Miami in just his second year in the league. The Raiders made a great value addition with signing Jenkins, who has shown signs of potential, and is still just 25 years-old. Jenkins has battled injuries in Miami, but Oakland hopes that he can stay healthy, and provide them with more depth, and possibly even start at outside linebacker if called upon.
22. A.J. Bouye (Cornerback)
Age: 25
Former Team: Houston Texans
New Team: Jacksonville Jaguars: 5 years $67.5 million, $26 million guaranteed.
Analysis: A.J. Bouye picked the perfect time to have his best season of his career, which ProFootballFocus graded him a (90.9), the third highest ranked corner in the league. The Jaguars tossed a ton of money at Bouye ($67 million, $26 million guaranteed) over the next five season. The Jags signed Bouye to the largest contract of any free agents, which they are expecting him to not just be a “one-year wonder”. If Bouye can continue his elite play from last season, he would immediately vastly improve their struggling secondary, and would make this a great addition for the Jaguars.
23. T.J. Lang (Offensive Guard)
Age: 29
Former Team: Green Bay Packers
New Team: Detroit Lions: 3 years $28.5 million, $19 million guaranteed.
Analysis: T.J. Lang, the former Green Bay offensive guard, has decided to sign with their arch rival Detroit Lions on a three-year deal worth $28.5 million, with $19 million guaranteed. Lang suffered an injury during the postseason, so it was a question whether it would potentially impact the money he would receive on the open market. If Lang can stay healthy, he will provide a real solid upgrade at the interior of their offensive line, pairing him alongside tackles Ricky Wagner, and Taylor Decker.
24. Stephon Gilmore (Cornerback)
Age: 26
Former Team: Buffalo Bills
New Team: New England Patriots: 5 years $65 million, $40 million guaranteed.
Analysis: With Logan Ryan heading to Tennessee, the Patriots replaced him by acquiring cornerback Stephon Gilmore to a five-year deal. Gilmore appeared to be one of the top young corners in the league, but struggled last season in which he was graded a (73.2) by ProFootballFocus, compared to his (82.2) grade the season prior. Despite his recent struggles, Gilmore is a very talented cornerback at just 26 years-old, and could make a very nice addition for the Patriots. The downside of the Gilmore deal, is how he is earning a hefty $40 million guaranteed over the next five seasons, compared to the $16 million guaranteed Logan Ryan received in Tennessee. Belichick is hoping that he will greatly improve his play in New England, and that investing in Gilmore will pay off
25. Torrey Smith (Wide Receiver)
Age: 28
Former Team: San Francisco 49ers
New Team: Philadelphia Eagles: 3 years $15 million.
Analysis: One of the Eagles main priorities this offseason was adding receivers for Carson Wentz. The Eagles made big news by signing Alshon Jeffrey, but they also added former Super Bowl champion Torrey Smith to a 3 year deal. Signing Smith for just $5 million a year should be a great bargain for the Eagles, especially in a market where players such as Kenny Britt, and Robert Woods are making a ton more.
26. D.J. Fluker (Offensive Guard)
Age: 25
Former Team: Los Angeles Chargers
New Team: New York Giants: 1 year $3 million.
Analysis: The Giants are on a mission to upgrade their offensive line this offseason, whether it’s through the draft, or in free agency. The Giants made their first move in hopes to improve their line, by adding former first-round pick D.J. Fluker from the Chargers. Fluker signed just a one-year deal worth $3 million, which can be viewed as a “low-risk, high reward” signing, and can provide an upgrade at guard if he can maintain to stay healthy.
27. Calais Campbell (Defensive Tackle)
Age: 30
Former Team: Arizona Cardinals
New Team: Jacksonville Jaguars: 4 years $60 million, $30 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Jaguars entered this offseason with a ton of available cap space, which they have shown in the past, they are not afraid of offering a bunch of money to top free agents with hopes to improve their roster. The Jaguars added two-time All-Pro defensive tackle Calais Campbell to a huge contract worth $60 million, and $30 million guaranteed over the next five seasons. Jaguars signed Campbell to the third highest contract in free agency, but the question will be whether he can continue his elite play, now that he is entering his 30’s. Campbell will join Malik Jackson, and Dante Fowler Jr., with expectations they’ll get their money’s worth out of Campbell, and that he will vastly improve their interior defense line.
28. Sean Spence (Inside Linebacker)
Age: 27
Former Team: Tennessee Titans
New Team: Indianapolis Colts: 1 year $3 million.
Analysis: The Colts signed former Tennessee Titans inside linebacker Sean Spence to a one-year deal for just $3 million. The Colts desperately needed help at inside linebacker, so signing a proven veteran like Spence should provide an immediate upgrade for their defense. Signing Spence to just $3 million is a bargain for the Colts, especially in a market where other players like Lawrence Timmons, A.J. Klein, and Malcolm Smith are receiving much larger contracts.
29. J.J. Wilcox (Safety)
Age: 28
Former Team: Dallas Cowboys
New Team: Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 2 years $6.25 million, $3.125 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Buccaneers made a nice addition with former Cowboys safety J.J. Wilcox to a two-deal. Wilcox had his best season in 2016, which he was graded (81.5) by ProFootballFocus, compared to his (48.0), and (47.0) the two previous season. Tampa Bay made a really nice low-risk value signing with Wilcox, with hopes that he’ll continue his strong play from the previous season.
30. Connor Barwin (Defensive End)
Age: 30
Former Team: Philadelphia Eagles
New Team: Los Angeles Rams: 1 year $6.5 million.
Analysis: The Los Angeles Rams went out and signed former Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Connor Barwin to a one-year deal worth $6.5 million. Barwin struggled last season in Philly under their 4-3 scheme, but he normally fits in more under a 3-4 scheme, which the Rams are converting to this season under new defensive coordinator Wade Phillips. The Rams made a solid addition signing Barwin, which they are expecting him to improve his play, and start at defensive end on the opposite side of Robert Quinn.
31. Jared Cook (Tight End)
Age: 29
Former Team: Green Bay Packers
New Team: Oakland Raiders: 2 years $10.6 million, $5 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Oakland Raiders signed former Packers tight end Jared Cook to a two-year deal worth $10.6 million, $5 million guaranteed. The Raiders do not have any reliable starting tight ends on their roster, so expect Cook to immediately provide Derek Carr a vertical threat in the middle of the field that Oakland has been searching for.
32. Kamar Aiken (Wide Receiver)
Age: 27
Former Team: Baltimore Ravens
New Team: Indianapolis Colts: 1 year $2.6 million.
Analysis: Former Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Kamar Aiken signed with the Colts, with hopes that he can immediately compete for the third spot on the depth chart. Aiken had a strong 2015 season, which he caught 75 passes for 944 yards, including five touchdowns. Aiken has stayed under the radar, but perhaps he could be recognized more if he provides a nice upgrade in the passing game for quarterback Andrew Luck. Aiken’s contract at just one year worth $2.6 million comes at a great value, especially when comparing to other veteran receivers that are signing for much larger contracts.
33. Eddie Lacy (Running Back)
Age: 26
Former Team: Green Bay Packers
New Team: Seattle Seahawks: 1 year $4.25 million.
Analysis: The Seahawks have been searching for a replacement at running back for Marshawn Lynch, and may have found it by adding former Packers running back Eddie Lacy. Lacy’s running style has drawn comparisons to Lynch, but the big question will be whether, or not Lacy can maintain his weight. There are incentives in place to help motivate Lacy, but the kind of shape Lacy shows up to training camp should help better determine if this was a smart addition by Seattle.
34. Chance Warmack (Offensive Guard)
Age: 25
Former Team: Tennessee Titans
New Team: Philadelphia Eagles: 1 year $1.51 million.
Analysis: The Eagles signed former Tennessee Titans 2013 first-round pick offensive guard Chance Warmack to a one-year deal. Warmack struggled a ton last season, earning just a (48.2) grade on just 134 total snaps according to ProFootballFocus. Despite Warmack’s struggles, he is a 25 year-old, former top-10 overall pick, so it appears to just be a low-risk signing. If Warmack can improve his play in Philly, the signing could possibility come with a high reward, but worst case they aren’t risking anything with just $1.5 million.
35. Rex Burkhead (Running Back)
Age: 26
Former Team: Cincinnati Bengals
New Team: New England Patriots: 1 year $3.15 million.
Analysis: The Patriots signed running back Rex Burkhead from the Cincinnati Bengals to a one-year deal worth $3.15 million. Burkhead has never received a full opportunity behind Jeremy Hill, and Giovani Bernard on the depth chart in Cincinnati. Although Burkhead has not had many opportunities, he’s looked impressive whenever he gets a chance. Belichick signed Burkhead with hopes that he may prove himself within a great opportunity to possibly start for a Super Bowl caliber team. It’s a smart move by New England, which they didn’t have to risk signing a big name running back to a much larger contract.
36. Pierre Garcon (Wide Receiver)
Age: 31
Former Team: Washington Redskins
New Team: San Fransisco 49ers: 5 years $47.5 million, $20 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The 49ers signed veteran receiver Pierre Garcon to a five-year deal, worth $47.5 million, with $20 million guaranteed. The contract value is questionable, and may have raised some eyebrows especially with Garcon being 32 years-old. Although the contract may not be worth a great value, there is no questioning Garcon’s route-running ability, and reliability that will be very useful for a team in a rebuild process.
37. Morris Claiborne (Cornerback)
Age: 27
Former Team: Dallas Cowboys
New Team: New York Jets: 1 year $5 million.
Analysis: The Jets signed former Dallas Cowboys cornerback Morris Claiborne to a one-year “prove it deal”, worth $5 million. Claiborne has battled injuries throughout his career, in which he missed nine games last season. The Jets recently released veteran cornerback Darrelle Revis, so immediately replacing him with a talented veteran corner, with still a lot to prove, is a smart move especially for just a one-year deal.
38. Cordarrelle Patterson (Wide Receiver)
Age: 25
Former Team: Minnesota Vikings
New Team: Oakland Raiders: 2 years $8.5 million, $5 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Oakland Raiders signed former first round pick Cordarrelle Patterson to a two-year deal worth $8.5 million, which includes $5 million guaranteed. Patterson has not reached his expectations as a wide receiver, but his return ability continues to arguably be one of the best in the league. The Raiders do not have any real depth behind receievers Amari Cooper, and Michael Crabtree, so it should interesting to see if Patterson could make more of an impact at receiver in Oakland.
39. Kelvin Beachum (Offensive Tackle)
Age: 27
Former Team: Jacksonville Jaguars
New Team: New York Jets: 3 years $24 million, $12 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Jets needed to fill the void at offensive tackle on both sides of the ball, and began doing so by adding former Jacksonville Jaguars offensive tackle Kelvin Beachum. Beachum struggled last season battling injuries, but the Jets might have found a reliable starter at a tremendous value compared to other free agent offensive tackles.
40. DaSean Jackson (Wide Receiver)
Age: 30
Former Team: Washington Redskins
New Team: Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 3 years $33.5 million, $20 million guaranteed.
Analysis: DaSean Jackson received a huge contract from Tampa Bay, signing for $33 million, along with $20 million guaranteed over the next three years. Jackson’s contract value is questionable, especially for a veteran wide receiver entering his 30’s, and whose game has been built around his elite speed. One of the main priorities for the Buccaneers this offseason, is adding a number two threat opposite of Mike Evans. The signing Jackson may not come at a great value, but he should immediately fill the void, and could make a very nice upgrade in the passing game.
41. Captain Munnerlyn (Cornerback)
Age: 28
Former Team: Minnesota Vikings
New Team: Carolina Panthers: 4 years $17 million.
Analysis: The Panthers added veteran cornerback Captain Munnerlyn, who reunites with his former team that he spent the majority of his career with. The Panthers secondary is a very young, and inexperienced group, so they really could benefit from adding a veteran presence at cornerback. While Munnerlyn may have struggled last season in Minnesota, he is a solid upgrade at a good price value. Munnerlyn should benefit immediately, with his prior knowledge of Carolina’s defensive schemes, which should help improve their secondary.
42. Geno Smith (Quarterback)
Age: 26
Former Team: New York Jets
New Team: New York Giants: 1 year $1.2 million.
Analysis: Geno Smith’s career on the Jets might be over, but his career in New York is not. Smith joins former Jets teammate Brandon Marshall, signing a one-year deal with the New York Giants. Smith’s career has not started on a very positive note, but this could be a great opportunity for Smith to grow as a quarterback behind a veteran like Eli Manning. Smith may never receive another opportunity as a starter, but there is no denying that he has shown enough talent at just 26 years-old to be a quality backup for any NFL team. This was a nice signing for the Giants, in which they were able to add a reliable back up quarterback for just $1.2 million, which can be looked at as a great value for any organization.
43. Datone Jones (Outside Linebacker)
Age: 26
Former Team: Green Bay Packers
New Team: Minnesota Vikings: 1 year $3.75 million.
Analysis: Datone Jones, the former Green Bay Packers 2013 first round pick, decided to sign with their arch rival Minnesota Vikings. It appears to be nice signing for the Vikings, which allows Jones to prove himself in a one-year deal, as well as also providing a much needed depth at outside linebacker.
44. Kendall Wright (Wide Receiver)
Age: 27
Former Team: Tennessee Titans
New Team: Chicago Bears: 1 year $4 million.
Analysis: Following the departure of Alshon Jeffrey, the Chicago Bears started rebuilding their receiving core by adding wide receiver Kendall Wright from the Tennessee Titans. Wright, has been a productive receiver in the slot for the Titans, and acquiring him in a low-risk deal should turn out to be a nice addition for the Bears.
45. Mike Adams (Safety)
Age: 36
Former Team: Indianapolis Colts
New Team: Carolina Panthers: 2 years $4.2 million, $1.15 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Panthers signed 36 year-old safety Mike Adams to a two-year deal worth just $2.1 million a season. Although Adams is 36, he hasn’t shown any real significant signs of regression yet, which he was graded the 17th highest ranked safety (83.3) last season via ProFootballFocus. Adams is easily the best safety on their roster, and should provide an instant upgrade in their secondary despite his age.
46. Latavius Murray (Running Back)
Age: 26
Former Team: Oakland Raiders
New Team: Minnesota Vikings: 3 years $15 million.
Analysis: With the Vikings releasing their all-time leading rusher Adrian Peterson, they went out and replaced him, by adding former Oakland Raiders running back Latavius Murray to a three-year deal worth $15 million. The biggest question will be whether Murray can stay healthy for a full season, and become the reliable three down starter that Minnesota is expecting out of him. Minnesota could be taking a risk with signing a veteran running back like Murray, but it’s a solid addition for the Vikings, because they really have nothing to lose with no real reliable starters on their current roster.
47. Ronald Leary (Offensive Guard)
Age: 27
Former Team: Dallas Cowboys
New Team: Denver Broncos: 4 years $36 million, $24 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Denver Broncos are desperately in need of improving their offensive line in every way possible, so signing guard Ronald Leary is off to a good start. Although, Leary is not considered to be one of the top guards in the league, which they most likely overpaid for him, there is no debate that he should immediately provide an instant upgrade at guard.
48. Brian Hoyer (Quarterback)
Age: 31
Former Team: Chicago Bears
New Team: San Fransisco 49ers: 2 years $12 million, $9.85 million guaranteed.
Analysis: With no quarterbacks on the 49ers depth chart entering the new season, new G.M. John Lynch struck right away at the start of free agency acquiring veteran quarterback Brian Hoyer. Hoyer is considered to be one of the top reliable veteran back up quarterbacks in the league, which signing him will allow them to draft, and develop somebody while they learn under Hoyer.
49. Julius Peppers (Outside Linebacker)
Age: 37
Former Team: Green Bay Packers
New Team: Carolina Panthers: 1 year $3.5 million.
Analysis: The Carolina Panthers signed 37 year-old pass rusher Julius Peppers, who reunites with the former team that drafted him, and played the majority of his career with. While Peppers age is a question at 37 years-old, his 7.5 sacks last season proved that he definitely still has something left in the tank. The Panthers are on a “win now” mentality, after missing the playoffs following a Super Bowl appearance. Therefore, signing Peppers to a one year is a smart move, which signals their intentions of going “all in” this season.
50. Danny Woodhead (Running Back)
Age: 32
Former Team: Los Angeles Chargers
New Team: Baltimore Ravens: 3 years $8.8 million, $4.25 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Ravens signed former San Diego Chargers running back Danny Woodhead to a three-year deal worth $8.8 million. The biggest question for Woodhead is his health, which he missed last season due to a torn ACL. Woodhead’s production has never been a question, he produces whenever he gets on the field whether it’s in the running, or passing game. Woodhead will provide the Ravens with a reliable veteran third down back, and should immediately expect to receive a heavy workload while Kenneth Dixon serves a four-game PED suspension to start the season.
51. Nolan Carroll (Cornerback)
Age: 30
Former Team: Philadelphia Eagles
New Team: Dallas Cowboys: 3 years $10 million.
Analysis: The Dallas Cowboys signed cornerback Nolan Carroll to a three-year deal, moving on from their division rival Philadelphia Eagles. Dallas recently lost corners Brandon Carr, and Morris Claiborne in free agency, so signing Carroll was definitely much needed. Carroll should provide the Cowboys with a solid number three option at corner, but they should still consider looking to add more quality corners through the draft.
52. Ted Ginn Jr. (Wide Receiver)
Age: 31
Former Team: Carolina Panthers
New Team: New Orleans Saints: 3 years $11 million, $5 million guaranteed.
Analysis: With the Saints focusing heavily on re-building their defense, they acquired a first-round pick by shipping wide receiver Brandin Cooks to New England. The Saints found an immediate replacement for Cooks in the slot, by adding veteran Ted Ginn Jr. from division rival Carolina Panthers. Although Ginn Jr. is 31 year-old, and is eight years older than Cooks (23), he offers the same type of ability that Cooks did, which now allows the Saints to have two first-round picks to address their defense.
53. Brandon Carr (Cornerback)
Age: 31
Former Team: Dallas Cowboys
New Team: Baltimore Ravens: 4 years $23.5 million, $4 million guaranteed.
Analysis: Brandon Carr, the former Dallas Cowboys cornerback decided to move on from Dallas to sign with the Baltimore Ravens. While Carr is not getting any older, it was a smart move by the Ravens adding a proven number two corner that can play on the other side of cornerback Jimmy Smith right away.
54. Paul Worrilow (Inside Linebacker)
Age: 26
Former Team: Atlanta Falcons
New Team: Detroit Lions: 1 year $3 million.
Analysis: With Detroit’s recent release of linebacker DeAndre Levy, it was expected that the Lions need to add linebacker depth right away. The Lions did so by adding former Atlanta Falcons inside linebacker Paul Worrilow, to just a one-year deal worth $3 million. Worrilow should provide some reliable depth to the position, and has the ability to start some games if called upon.
55. Davon House (Cornerback)
Age: 27
Former Team: Jacksonville Jaguars
New Team: Green Bay Packers: 1 year $2.8 million.
Analysis: Arguably the biggest need for the Packers to address this offseason is their secondary, which was shredded by Atlanta’s offense in the NFC Championship. The Packers began to fill that void, by signing former Jaguars corner Davon House to a one-year deal. House is returning to Green Bay where he began his career, and should provide some more depth at cornerback, but they still should consider adding another one with a possible early draft pick.
56. D.J. Hayden (Cornerback)
Age: 26
Former Team: Oakland Raiders
New Team: Detroit Lions: 1 year $3.75 million.
Analysis: The Lions made a quality low-risk signing, with the possibility of a high reward, by signing former 2013 first-round draft pick D.J. Hayden from the Oakland Raiders. Hayden signed to just a one-year deal worth $3.75 million, which adds a much needed depth at cornerback for Detroit.
57. Quentin Demps (Safety)
Age: 32
Former Team: Houston Texans
New Team: Chicago Bears: 3 years $13.5 million, $5 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Chicago Bears signed a pretty fair value deal by adding veteran safety Quentin Demps from the Houston Texans. The Bears needed immediate help at safety besides Adrian Amos, and Demps should provide a much needed veteran presence in their secondary.
58. Nate Allen (Safety)
Age: 29
Former Team: Oakland Raiders
New Team: Miami Dolphins: 1 year $3.4 million.
Analysis: The Dolphins signed veteran safety Nate Allen from the Oakland Raiders to a one-year deal worth just $3.4 million. Allen had a very successful year in Philadelphia in 2014, and appears that is what Miami is banking on, that he returns to that form this season alongside safety Reshad Jones.
59. Barkevious Mingo (Outside Linebacker)
Age: 26
Former Team: New England Patriots
New Team: Indianapolis Colts: 1 year $2.5 million.
Analysis: Barkevious Mingo, the former Cleveland Browns 2013 first-round draft pick, was acquired by the Colts on a one-year deal worth $2.2 million. While Mingo has not showed any first round potential since entering the league, he is coming off a Super Bowl victory with New England, with a ton to prove. The Colts can use any help on defense, and taking a shot on a former first round pass rusher with a chip on his shoulder for just one season to prove himself, is a good move by Indy with no real risk whatsoever.
60. Riley Reiff (Offensive Tackle)
Age: 28
Former Team: Detroit Lions
New Team: Minnesota Vikings: 5 years $58.75 million, $26.3 million guaranteed.
Analysis: The Vikings signed offensive tackle Riley Reiff from their arch rival Detroit Lions, to a massive five-year deal worth $58 million, and $26 million guaranteed. While the deal is very pricy, and much larger than other offensive tackles received, there is no denying that the Vikings are in desperate need of help at offensive line. Reiff had his worst career season according to ProFootballFocus, which graded him a (67.5). Although Reiff struggled last season, there is limited options in the draft at offensive tackle, so addressing their need in free agency right away seemed like a must for Minnesota.
Those were the best value signings of the NFL Free Agency thus far. While the Free Agency period is still going on, lets take a look at some notable free agents who are still available.
Notable Available Free Agents:
QB: Jay Cutler, Colin Kaepernick, Robert Griffin III, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Case Keenum, Blaine Gabbert, Chase Daniel.
RB: Adrian Peterson, Jamaal Charles, LaGarette Blount, Joique Bell, Matt Asiata, DeAngelo Williams, Tim Hightower.
WR: Michael Floyd, Victor Cruz, Anquan Boldin, Marquess Wilson, Stedman Bailey, Vincent Jackson, Stevie Johnson, Cecil Shorts, Andrew Hawkins, Quinton Patton.
TE: Jacob Tamme, Gerald Christian, Larry Donnell, Gavin Escobar.
OT: Ryan Clady, King Dunlap, Sebastian Vollmer, Breno Giacomini, Byron Bell, Jake Long.
OG: Austin Pasztor, Andrew Tiller, Brandon Fusco, Andrew Gardner, Jahri Evans.
C: Nick Mangold, Tim Barnes, Ryan Wendell, Cody Wallace, John Sullivan.
DT: Jonathan Hankins, Jared Odrick, SenDerrick Marks, Corbin Bryant, Roy Miller, Tony McDaniel, Paul Soliai, Glenn Dorsey,
DE: Mario Williams, Devin Taylor, Dwight Freeney, Vance Walker, Devon Still.
OLB: Elvis Dumervil, Paul Kruger, Erik Walden, Trent Cole, IK Enemkpali, Sam Acho, Sean Witherspoon, Phillip Wheeler, Andrew Gachkar, Josh Bynes.
ILB: Zach Brown, Brandon Spikes, Gerald Hodges, DeAndre Levy, Perry Riley, Sio Moore, Rolando McClain, Jon Bostic, D’Qwell Jackson, Kelvin Sheppard
CB: Sam Shield, Nickell Robey-Coleman, Darrelle Revis, Brandon Flowers, Alterraun Verner, Leon Hall, Jerraud Powers, Patrick Robinson.
S: T.J. McDonald, Ladarius Webb, Jarius Byrd, Dashon Goldson, Corey Graham, Rashad Johnson, Rafael Bush, Kendrick Lewis, Matt Elam, Shamarko Thomas, Daimion Stafford, Donte Whitner,
Off The Gridiron 