NFL Free Agency Predictions
The NFL free agency signing period is set to kick off on Monday, March 10 at noon ET, marking the start of the “legal tampering” period. This period precedes the new league year by two days and is characterized by a frenzy of offseason activity. Before the official start, teams will have made notable extensions and decisions on franchise-tagged players by March 4. Despite some early moves, there will still be several high-profile unrestricted free agents available for teams to sign. Let’s delve into some projections on where these players might land and the impact they could have on their new teams.
WR Tee Higgins: Re-signing with Bengals
As per projections, wide receiver Tee Higgins is expected to re-sign with the Bengals. The Bengals, with ample salary cap space, are in a position to offer Higgins a contract ranging from $28-$31 million per season. Additionally, they are looking to extend their top wide receiver, Ja’Marr Chase, for around $36 million per season. By securing both Higgins and Chase, the Bengals aim to replicate the successful formula of the Super Bowl-winning Eagles, who locked up their quarterback and key receivers. This strategic move is crucial for the Bengals as they strive to return to the Super Bowl.
QB Sam Darnold: Signing with Colts
In a surprising move, quarterback Sam Darnold is predicted to sign with the Colts. With ample cap space exceeding $35 million, the Colts are looking for a solid starting alternative under offensive-minded Shane Steichen. Darnold’s downfield passing abilities and experience make him a viable option to lead the Colts’ offense. This unexpected signing could provide stability and depth to the Colts’ quarterback position.
G Trey Smith: Re-signing with Chiefs
Guard Trey Smith is anticipated to re-sign with the Chiefs, fending off interest from other teams such as the Giants and Bears. The Chiefs are likely to use the franchise tag on Smith to retain his services. This move underscores the Chiefs’ commitment to maintaining a strong offensive line to support their dynamic offense.
EDGE Josh Sweat: Signing with Cardinals
After an impressive Super Bowl performance, edge rusher Josh Sweat is expected to sign with the Cardinals. Sweat’s reunion with coach Jonathan Gannon in Arizona could bolster the Cardinals’ pass rush and defensive capabilities. This strategic signing aligns with the Cardinals’ goal of enhancing their defensive prowess.
EDGE Khalil Mack: Signing with Commanders
The Commanders are looking to upgrade their pass rush by signing edge rusher Khalil Mack. Mack’s leadership and elite play could significantly impact the Commanders’ defense. His potential fit in Dan Quinn’s defensive scheme highlights the Commanders’ commitment to strengthening their roster.
QB Kirk Cousins: Signing with Rams
Quarterback Kirk Cousins is projected to sign with the Rams, providing a viable option should the team decide to trade Matthew Stafford. Cousins’ familiarity with former Sean McVay assistant Kevin O’Connell makes him a suitable candidate to lead the Rams’ offense. This strategic move could offer stability and experience to the Rams’ quarterback position.
QB Russell Wilson: Signing with Raiders
Russell Wilson is anticipated to reunite with Pete Carroll in a Chip Kelly offense by signing with the Raiders. Wilson’s experience and leadership could provide a significant boost to the Raiders’ offense. This move could offer Wilson an opportunity to extend his career while contributing to the Raiders’ success.
QB Aaron Rodgers: Signing with Seahawks
After his release from the Jets, Aaron Rodgers is expected to sign with the Seahawks, replacing Geno Smith. Rodgers’ arrival in Seattle could elevate the team’s offensive capabilities, supported by a strong offensive cast and a rising young defense. This strategic signing could position the Seahawks as strong contenders in the upcoming season.
LB Zach Baun: Re-signing with Eagles
Linebacker Zach Baun is projected to re-sign with the Eagles, continuing his impactful role in Vic Fangio’s defense. Baun’s versatility and defensive prowess make him a valuable asset for the Eagles. His potential return to the team could bolster the Eagles’ defensive capabilities.
S Jevon Holland: Signing with Vikings
Safety Jevon Holland is predicted to sign with the Vikings, providing additional support against the run under former coordinator Brian Flores. Holland’s playmaking abilities and defensive skills could enhance the Vikings’ defense, offering a valuable addition to the team.
WR Chris Godwin: Re-signing with Buccaneers
Wide receiver Chris Godwin is expected to re-sign with the Buccaneers, maintaining his role as a key option in the team’s offense. Godwin’s route running and playmaking abilities make him an essential component of the Buccaneers’ receiving corps. His return to the team could solidify the Buccaneers’ offensive strength.
WR Stefon Diggs: Signing with Cowboys
Wide receiver Stefon Diggs is projected to sign with the Cowboys, providing a reliable target for the team’s offense. Diggs’ experience and playmaking skills could complement the Cowboys’ receiving unit, offering a valuable asset to the team.
LB Dre Greenlaw: Signing with Cowboys
Linebacker Dre Greenlaw is anticipated to sign with the Cowboys, addressing a key need in the team’s defensive lineup. Greenlaw’s defensive abilities and leadership could significantly impact the Cowboys’ defense, providing a valuable addition to the team.
OT Ronnie Stanley: Signing with Bears
Offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley is expected to sign with the Bears, solidifying the team’s offensive line. Stanley’s blocking prowess and experience could offer critical support to the Bears’ offense, enhancing their overall performance.
WR Amari Cooper: Signing with Bears
Wide receiver Amari Cooper is projected to sign with the Bears, providing a dynamic receiving option for the team. Cooper’s route running and playmaking abilities could complement the Bears’ offensive scheme, offering a valuable addition to the team.
RB Aaron Jones: Re-signing with Vikings
Running back Aaron Jones is anticipated to re-sign with the Vikings, maintaining his role as a key offensive weapon for the team. Jones’ rushing abilities and versatility make him an essential component of the Vikings’ backfield, providing a valuable asset to the team.
CB Charvarius Ward: Signing with Falcons
Cornerback Charvarius Ward is predicted to sign with the Falcons, bolstering the team’s secondary. Ward’s coverage skills and defensive prowess could significantly enhance the Falcons’ defense, offering a valuable addition to the team.
CB Carlton Davis: Signing with Chargers
Cornerback Carlton Davis is expected to sign with the Chargers, providing a strong presence in the team’s secondary. Davis’ coverage abilities and playmaking skills could elevate the Chargers’ defense, offering a valuable addition to the team.
WR Keenan Allen: Signing with Chiefs
Wide receiver Keenan Allen is projected to sign with the Chiefs, offering a reliable target for quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Allen’s route running and receiving skills could complement the Chiefs’ offensive strategy, providing a valuable addition to the team.