NFL Offseason – The unofficial start to NFL free agency kicked off at noon EST on Monday, March 13. The legal tampering window opens the negotiation window between free agents and NFL teams. While contracts will not become official until Wednesday, March 15, this is the first opportunity for deals to get announced.
In an effort to archive more than 60 signings and headlines from the unofficial start to free agency, these four summaries highlight some of the biggest trends from the first day of legal tampering.
Below that, you can find summaries and analysis for all of Monday’s headlines.
Day 1 In Summary:
Bears, Broncos Make Multiple Splashes
Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles was one of the busiest people in the league on Monday. The league leaders in cap space heading into the 2023 offseason, Chicago agreed to $142.5 million in total reported contract value on the first day of free agency. Most of the Bears’ money was allocated to a Chicago defense with a league-worst 17.9% total defensive DVOA in 2022. The Bears signed two off-ball linebackers in former Philadelphia Eagle T.J. Edwards and former Buffalo Bill Tremaine Edmunds off of career seasons. They also bought high on Tennessee Titans’ defensive end DeMarcus Walker, who excelled in limited reps in 2022.
While Chicago made some of the day’s biggest moves, the Denver Broncos may boast the most volume from Monday’s transactions. Denver struck six deals on the first day of free agency. Offensively, outside of acquiring a backup quarterback in Jarrett Stidham, Denver prioritized protecting their quarterback. The Broncos made the first two offensive line moves of free agency and took two of the biggest names off the board in the process, landing Ravens guard Ben Powers and 49ers tackle Mike McGlinchey. They also signed a run-blocking tight end in former Jaguar Chris Manhertz. On the defensive sign of the ball, the Broncos retained tackling machine Alex Singleton with a multi-year deal and added pass-rushing talent in former Cardinal Zach Allen.
Eagles, Bengals Watch D Walk
The Philadelphia Eagles knew that their defense was going to look very different come 2023. The Eagles entered the offseason with over 7,000 total defensive snaps hitting the open market. One day into free agency, Philadelphia has already had four players sign elsewhere. On the defensive side of the ball, linebacker T.J. Edwards signed with the Bears, defensive tackle Javon Hargrave landed a payday with the 49ers, and safety Marcus Epps agrees to a deal with the Raiders. Backup tackle Andre Dillard also signed a deal with the Titans. Philadelphia’s lone signing of the day, however, may have been the most important: Eagles center Jason Kelce has agreed to return for 2023.
The Cincinnati Bengals watched both their starting free agent safeties sign elsewhere on the first day of free agency. Jessie Bates, who played 2022 on the franchise tag, was anticipated to walk. He signed with the Atlanta Falcons on a four-year, $64 million contract. Vonn Bell, however, was anticipated to be a priority for the Bengals this offseason. He agreed to a contract before Bates did, signing a deal with the Carolina Panthers.
Dull Day for Fantasy Owners
The moves on Day 1 of free agency carried little weight in the world of fantasy football. None of the deals from Monday involved a running back or wide receiver, while the two tight ends signed–Chris Manhertz and Josh Oliver–are primarily blocking tight ends. The biggest news involving skill position players was speculation on a potential future move. Los Angeles Chargers running back and 2022 touchdown leader Austin Ekeler requested permission to seek a trade.
The most active positions on the first day of free agency were linebacker and interior defensive linemen. Eleven linebackers inked deals on Monday, most of any single position. Aside from Chicago’s tandem, most of the moves were re-signings. Cincinnati, New England, Detroit, Miami, and Denver all retained one of their free-agent linebackers. The biggest deals were made at the defensive tackle position, not even including the Daron Payne extension from the weekend. Javon Hargrave signed a four-year, $84 million deal with the San Francisco 49ers. Dre’Mont Jones signed a three-year, $51 million deal with the Seattle Seahawks. Dalvin Tomlinson closed out the night with a four-year, $57 million contract with the Cleveland Browns.
No News on Rodgers
Aside from the Las Vegas Raiders’ deal with Jimmy Garoppolo, every other signing at quarterback–Jameis Winston, Sam Darnold, Mike White, Easton Stick, and Jarrett Stidham–was for a backup role. Teams cannot negotiate with non-exclusive free agent Lamar Jackson until the league year begins on Wednesday. The rest of the league is waiting on Aaron Rodgers, whose lack of news generated headlines and reporting on its own.
Rodgers made an appearance on Brandon Marshall’s ‘I AM ATHLETE’ podcast over the weekend and spoke briefly on his upcoming decision: “Stay tuned … I think it won’t be long. There’s a time and a time limit for all this.” The time limit could likely be the end of this legal tampering period. If Rodgers is traded, his contract is more flexible if moved prior to the deadline. If Rodgers retires, Green Bay could process the retirement immediately, taking a $40.3 million dead cap hit for 2023 but erasing all future dead cap off the books. Both the Green Bay Packers and New York Jets (the only team openly linked to Rodgers as of Monday) are in a holding pattern until the 39-year-old quarterback makes a decision.
Breaking Down Monday’s Moves:
11:35 p.m. EST: Indianapolis Colts Sign Rams K Matt Gay to Record Kicker Deal
The Indianapolis Colts and former Los Angeles Rams kicker Matt Gay have agreed to a record-setting contract, as first reported by FOX Sports’ Peter Schrager. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the contract is worth $22.5 million over four years, the biggest ever deal for a kicker in free agency and the most money over three years for a kicker.
Gay finished a perfect 21-for-21 on attempts inside 50 yards and 7-for-9 on kicks of 50+ yards in 2022. In his three years with the Rams, Gay posted a 92.5% field goal percentage and a 96.9% extra point percentage.
11:10 p.m. EST: Cleveland Browns Sign Vikings DT Dalvin Tomlinson
The Cleveland Browns and former Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson have agreed to a four-year deal worth $57 million and $27.5 million guaranteed.
Check out our full write-up of the Tomlinson deal.
10:09 p.m. EST: Chicago Bears Sign Titans DE DeMarcus Walker to Three-Year Deal
The Chicago Bears have signed former Tennessee Titans defensive end DeMarcus Walker to a three-year, $21 million deal, according to a report from the Chicago Sun-Times’ Patrick Finley.
Walker recorded 7.0 sacks, 12 tackles for loss, and 25 pressures in six games with the Titans in 2022, all of which were career highs. He previously spent four seasons with the Denver Broncos before going to the Houston Texans in 2021.
9:32 p.m. EST: Seattle Seahawks Sign Broncos DT Dre’Mont Jones to Three-Year Deal
The Seattle Seahawks have signed former Denver Broncos defensive tackle Dre’Mont Jones to a three-year deal worth $51.5 million, according to a report from NFL Network’s James Palmer. Additional reporting from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport notes Jones will make $23.5 million his first season, the $35.02 million over two seasons.
Jones started all 13 appearances in 2022, his first time starting more than 10 games. His breakout season saw Jones post or tie career highs in tackles (45), tackles for loss (13), sacks (6.5), quarterback hits (16) and pressures (35), according to Sports Info Solutions.
According to Sharp Football’s Warren Sharp, Jones is Seattle’s largest free agent signing since the Seahawks signed Sidney Rice to a $41 million contract in 2011. Their largest signing since 2011, per Sharp, was linebacker Uchenna Nwosu for $19.1 million in 2022.
9:19 p.m. EST: Minnesota Vikings Sign EDGE Marcus Davenport to One-Year Deal
The Minnesota Vikings and former New Orleans Saints edge rusher Marcus Davenport agreed to a one-year deal worth $13 million, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Davenport recorded 21.0 sacks in his first four seasons with the Saints, including a 9.0-sack season in 2021. However, Davenport recorded just 0.5 sacks and four tackles for loss in nine games with New Orleans, both career lows.
9:18 p.m. EST: Atlanta Falcons Sign Saints LB Kaden Elliss
The Atlanta Falcons have agreed to a deal to a three-year, $21 million contract with former New Orleans Saints linebacker Kaden Elliss, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. The contract will guarantee Elliss $11 million.
Drafted as a seventh-rounder in 2019, Elliss saw one start in his first three seasons. In 2022, Eliis started in 11 of his 16 appearances, recording 72 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 7.0 sacks, 20 pressures, and two forced fumbles in 630 defensive snaps.
9:03 p.m. EST: Houston Texans Sign Former 49ers DB Jimmie Ward
The Houston Texans have agreed to a deal with former San Francisco 49ers safety Jimmie Ward, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Bates registered a career-high three interceptions in 2022, but also allowed 75.0% completion on 44 targets, the second-highest completion percentage allowed in his career.
Ward is reunited with Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans, who served as San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator in 2022.
9:00 p.m. EST: New Orleans Saints Bring Back QB Jameis Winston On One-Year Deal
The New Orleans Saints are set to bring back quarterback Jameis Winston, as first reported by CBS Sports’ Josina Anderson. Additional reporting from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport values it at up to $8 million.
Winston has started 10 games since Brees retired in 2020. In two seasons, he has 168-for-276 for 2,028 yards, 18 touchdowns and nine interceptions. In 2022, Winston posted a -64 DYAR and -19.1% DVOA.
New Orleans recently added quarterback Derek Carr on a multi-year deal. With no starting opportunities available for Winston, he will return to the Saints to back up Carr.
8:47 p.m. EST: Denver Broncos Sign Cardinals DE Zach Allen to Three-Year Deal
The Denver Broncos have agreed to terms on a three-year, $45.75 million deal with former Arizona Cardinals defensive end Zach Allen, according to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Allen’s deal includes $32.5 million in guarantees.
Allen was drafted in the third round by the Cardinals in 2019. He posted career highs across the board in 2022 with 14 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, 32 pressures, and five passes batted, according to Sports Info Solutions. Allen was second to only J.J. Watt in each of these categories on the Cardinals.
Allen reunites with Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, who most recently served as the Cardinals defensive coordinator.
8:41 p.m. EST: Los Angeles Chargers Sign Former Vikings LB Eric Kendricks
Former Minnesota Vikings linebacker Eric Kendricks announced via Instagram that he will join the Los Angeles Chargers.
Former #Vikings LB Eric Kendricks is signing with the #Chargers pic.twitter.com/glkAFvT5b1
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 14, 2023
Kendricks has posted back-to-back seasons with 140 tackles and nine tackles for loss. He also allowed a 60.9% completion percentage in coverage, his third-lowest allowed in his career. While he posted just 1.0 sack this season, Kendricks has a career total of 15.0 sacks and 73 pressures over the least seven years.
7:25 p.m. EST: Miami Dolphins Re-Sign LB Duke Riley
The Miami Dolphins and linebacker Duke Riley agreed to a two-year contract, according to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Riley signed to the Dolphins on a one-year deal in 2021, then signed another in 2022. Riley finished the 2022 season with 42 tackles, five tackles for loss,1.0 sack, and four batted passes on 347 defensive snaps.
7:23 p.m. EST: Carolina Panthers Re-Sign C Bradley Bozeman
The Carolina Panthers have brought back center Bradley Bozeman on a three-year, $18 million deal, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Bozeman joined the Panthers in 2022 after playing four years with the Baltimore Ravens. He posted a 2.0% blown block rate on 649 snaps, his highest rate in the last four seasons. By signing Bozeman, Carolina returns all five of their starting linemen from the past season.
7:05 p.m. EST: Denver Broncos Re-Sign LB Alex Singleton to Three-Year Deal
The Denver Broncos have retained linebacker Alex Singleton on a three-year, $18 million contract with $9 million in guarantees, according to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Singleton has recorded 283 tackles in the last two seasons. In 2022, he recorded career bests in tackles (152), tackles for loss (10), pressures (13), pass breakups (4), and yards per target allowed (5.2), according to Sports Info Solutions.
6:57 p.m. EST: New York Giants Sign Colts LB Bobby Okereke to Four-Year Contract
The New York Giants have signed Indianapolis Colts linebacker Bobby Okereke to a four-year, $40 million contract with $22 million guaranteed, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Okereke racked up 280 tackles over the last two seasons, leading the Colts in tackles over that span. He finished the 2022 season with 148 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, and six pass breakups, all career highs.
6:51 p.m. EST: New York Jets Re-Sign K Greg Zuerlein
The New York Jets have brought back kicker Greg Zuerlein, according to a report from the Associated Press’s Dennis Waszak Jr..
In his first season with the Jets, Zuerlein finished 24-for-26 on field goals inside 50 yards and 6-for-11 on field goals of 50+ yards. He also notched the longest field goal in franchise history with a 60-yard make. In 2022, New York finished 21st in special teams DVOA with a -1.0 from field goals and extra points.
6:34 p.m. EST: Miami Dolphins Sign LB David Long to Two-Year, $11 Million Deal
The Miami Dolphins have signed former Tennessee Titans linebacker David Long Jr. to a two-year deal worth $11 million, according to a report from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
The Titans drafted Long in the sixth round in 2019, giving him his first start in 2020. Long finished the 2022 season with a career-high 87 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and a pair of interceptons. Long has never played more than 12 games in a season at the professional level.
6:13 p.m. Denver Broncos Sign Jaguars TE Chris Manhertz
The Denver Broncos have signed former Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Chris Manhertz a two-year $6 million contract with $3.34 million, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
In two seasons with Jacksonville, Manhertz caught six passes on eight targets fo r113 yards and a touchdown. However, Manhertz is an elite run blocker. Over two seasons, he allowed just four blown blocks on 443 rushing snaps, a 0.9% blown block rate.
6:01 p.m. EST: Las Vegas Raiders Sign Eagles S Marcus Epps
The Las Vegas Raiders have agreed to a deal with former Philadelphia Eagles safety Marcus Epps, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Additional reporting from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler notes the Raiders will secure Epps to a two-year deal worth $12 million.
Epps started all 17 games at safety for the Eagles and led the defense in snaps, recording six pass breakups and 91 tackles in 2022. Epps allowed a career-high 25 completions for 317 yards and five touchdowns in coverage this season, his 9.3 yards per target his highest average allowed since becoming a starter in 2020. Epps and the Eagles secondary led the league in defensive passing DVOA.
5:47 p.m. EST: Tennessee Titans Sign Eagles OT Andre Dillard
The Tennessee Titans have agreed to a deal with former Philadelphia Eagles tackle Andre Dillard, as first reported by The Score’s Jordan Schultz.
Dillard was drafted 22nd overall by the Eagles in 2019. An addition to an already-great offensive line room, Dillard started just nine of his 27 appearances over three seasons in Philadelphia, none of which came in 2022.
5:26 p.m. EST: Washington Commanders Sign Seahawks LB Cody Barton
The Washington Commanders have signed former Seattle Seahawks linebacker Cody Barton to a one-year, fully guaranteed contract, according to a report from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
Barton ascended in 2022, starting 11 games and appearing in 17 games for the first time in his career. His 136 combined tackles were second on Seattle behind Jordyn Brooks and 15th among all players in the league. Barton also posted an additional 2.0 sacks and four pressures. In coverage, he allowed a 65.4% completion percentage and a career-low 3.8 yards per target on 26 targets, notching two interceptions as well.
5:12 p.m. EST: 49ers Sign QB Sam Darnold To One-Year Deal
The San Francisco 49ers have agreed to a one-year deal with former Carolina Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold, according to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Darnold posted a positive season-long DVOA for the first time in his career. While Darnold did not have the pass attempts to formally qualify for our formal quarterback rankings, his 23.2% passing DVOA ranks fifth among quarterbacks with between 10 and 199 pass attempts. All quarterbacks who ranked ahead of Darnold on this list had less than 30 passes. Darnold’s 326 passing DYAR was second to future 49ers teammate Brock Purdy among quarterbacks with 10 to 199 passing attempts.
5:01 p.m. EST: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Re-Sign CB Jamel Deal
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have re-signed cornerback Jamel Dean, according to a report from from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Further reporting from ESPN’s Adam Schefter notes that Deal agreed to a four-year, $52 million deal with the Buccaneers.
Dean was one of three Buccaneers to record two interceptions in 2022, finishing second on the team with eight pass breakups. Dean’s 46.6% completion percentage allowed is Dean’s best since his rookie season in 2019.
4:49 p.m. EST: Pittsburgh Steelers Sign Vikings CB Patrick Peterson
The Pittsburgh Steelers have agreed to a two-year deal with former Minnesota Vikings cornerback Patrick Peterson, according to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
At 32 years old, Peterson posted a career season after returning to the Vikings. Peterson started all 17 games for the Vikings. His 47.5% completion percentage allowed is his lowest since 2017, while his 11 pass breakups and five interceptons are both career-highs since at least 2015, per Sports Info Solutions.
4:45 p.m. EST: Cleveland Browns Sign Texans DE Obo Okoronkwo
The Cleveland Browns have signed former Houston Texans defensive end Obo Okoronkwo to a three-year deal worth $19 million, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Okoronkwo’s deal has $12.5 million guaranteed and can reach as high as $22 million.
Okoronkwo is coming off his first-ever season as a starter on a one-year deal with the Texans. Okoronkwo posted a career-high 46 tackles and finished second to Jerry Hughes with 12 tackles for loss and 5.0 sacks.
4:44 p.m. EST: New York Giants Sign DT Rakeem Nunez-Roches
The New York Giants have agreed to a deal with former Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Rakeem Nunez-Roches, according to a report from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
Nunez-Roches started 10 of his 17 appearances this season, recording 33 combined tackles, five tackles for loss, and 2.0 sacks, all of which were career highs.
4:36 p.m. EST: Falcons Land Former Bengals S Jessie Bates III
The Atlanta Falcons are set to sign former Cincinnati Bengals safety Jessie Bates III to a four-year, $64.02 million contract, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The deal will pay Bates $23 million in his first year with the team.
Check out our full write-up of the Bates deal.
4:34 p.m. EST: Detroit Lions Re-Sign LB Alex Anzalone
The Detroit Lions are re-signing linebacker Alex Anzalone to a three-year deal worth $18.75 million, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Anzalone has started 31 games over his two seasons with the Lions, including all 17 games in 2022. He posted a career-high 123 tackles and 12 tackles for loss in 2022, leading the team in both categories. Anzalone added an additional 1.5 sacks and 19 pressures to that defensive production.
3:58 p.m. EST: Chicago Bears Makes A Splash, Landing Bills LB Tremaine Edmunds
The Chicago Bears have locked in 24-year-old linebacker Tremaine Edmunds to a four-year, $72 million contract with $50 million guaranteed, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
The deal makes Edmunds a top-four highest-paid linebacker in football. Chicago recently moved on from linebacker Roquan Smith during the 2022 season, who signed a five-year, $100 million extension with the Baltimore Ravens.
Edmunds spent the last five seasons with the Buffalo Bills, recording at least 100 tackles in each of his five seasons. Edmunds posted back-to-back seasons with 12 tackles for loss each. He also recorded a career-low 3.9 yards per target allowed on 60.0% completion percentage in coverage.
3:54 p.m. EST: Houston Texans Sign DE Chase Winovich
The Houston Texans have signed former Cleveland Browns defensive end Chase Winovich to a one-year, $2 million contract, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Winovich was traded from the New England Patriots to the Cleveland Browns during the 2022 offseason, eventually starting two of his seven appearances during the season. Winovich registered 19 tackles, one tackle for loss, and 1.0 sack over that stretch. Winovich recorded 66 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, 11.0 sacks, and 82 pressures during his first two seasons with the Patriots.
3:54 p.m. EST: Chicago Bears Sign Former Titans G Nate Davis
The Chicago Bears are bolstering their offensive line, securing former Tennessee Titans guard Nate Davis to a three-year deal, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Davis started 12 games for the Titans in 2022, allowing a career-low 14 blown blocks in 638 snaps. His 2.2% blown block rate is the second-lowest of his career. Davis excelled as a pass blocker in 2022, allowing two sacks and a 1.9% blown block rate on 359 passing snaps, according to Sports Info Solutions.
3:39 p.m. EST: Houston Texans Sign Former 49ers DT Hassan Ridgeway
San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Hassan Ridgeway is expected to sign a one-year, $4 million deal with the Houston Texans, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. $3 million of Ridgeway’s contract will be fully guaranteed.
Ridgeway played on a one-year deal with the 49ers in 2022, previously playing for the Indianapolis Colts and Philadelphia Eagles. Ridgeway posted a career-high 28 tackles, starting seven of his 12 appearances.
3:30 p.m. EST: Cleveland Browns Expected to Re-Sign C Ethan Pocic
The Cleveland Browns are expected to retain center Ethan Pocic, according to a report from CBS Sports’ Josina Anderson.
Pocic joined the Browns in 2022 after five years with the Seattle Seahawks. He allowed 10 blown blocks across 773 total snaps, good for a 1.3% blown block rate. Cleveland’s offensive line ranked 14th in adjusted line yards and 18th in adjusted sack rate in 2022.
3:21 p.m. EST: Carolina Panthers Land Bengals S Vonn Bell
The Carolina Panthers have landed a deal with former Cincinnati Bengals safety Vonn Bell, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Bell posted a career-high four interceptions in 2022 while allowing a 70.4% completion percentage. He logged 12 pass breakups and five interceptions in his three seasons with the Bengals, starting 48 games over that span.
The Carolina Panthers ranked 25th in total defensive DVOA and 27th in defensive passing DVOA.
3:04 p.m. EST: There Is NO News Regarding Aaron Rodgers’ 2023 Playing Status
Three hours into the unofficial start of the league year, and we have no new news about Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers. After a report from Trey Wingo claimed a deal between Rodgers and the Jets had been finalized, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport announced that there is no new update regarding Rodgers’ 2023 status. According to Rapoport, “nothing has happened” as of now.
Meanwhile, New York Jets rookies have been having fun by drumming up speculation on Twitter.
I can finally enjoy my vacay now.
— Garrett Wilson (@GarrettWilson_V) March 13, 2023
Y’all shud see this smile on me rn 😭
— Garrett Wilson (@GarrettWilson_V) March 13, 2023
Aye man, say mannnn @GarrettWilson_V & @BreeceH 😆😆😆😆😆😆🥲🥲🥲
— D’ROY GARDNER (@iamSauceGardner) March 13, 2023
The Cheese Head did it😂😂🧘🏾♂️ https://t.co/oor602QsTD
— Breece Hall (@BreeceH) March 13, 2023
2:58 p.m. EST: Minnesota Vikings Sign Former Ravens TE Josh Oliver
The Minnesota Vikings have signed former Baltimore Ravens tight end Josh Oliver to a three-year, $21 million deal with $10.75 million guaranteed, according to a report from NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.
Oliver posted a breakout season in his third year with the Ravens, recording 14 catches on 25 targets for 149 receiving yards and a pair of touchdowns. Oliver’s volume production in 2022 eclipses his first two seasons in the league combined. Oliver posted a -14 DYAR and -15.3% DVOA, good for 38th and 41st among 48 qualifying tight ends, respectively.
While Oliver’s offensive contributions are underwhelming, he was an elite run-blocking tight end in 2022. Oliver’s one blown block on 276 rushing snaps was second-best among tight ends this season, behind only Kansas City Chiefs tight end Noah Gray, according to Sports Info Solutions.
Minnesota acquired Detroit Lions tight end T.J. Hockenson at the trade deadline in 2022. He is currently listed with a cap hit of $9.3 million in 2023.
2:52 p.m. EST: Cincinnati Bengals Re-Sign LB Germaine Pratt to Three-Year Contract
The Cincinnati Bengals have re-signed linebacker Germaine Pratt to a three-year, $21 million deal, according to a report from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Pratt will get $10.35 million in his first year and $15.15 over the next two seasons, per Pelissero.
Pratt posted his first 100-tackle season in 2022, registering an additional seven tackles for loss and 1.0 sacks on five total pressures.
2:12 p.m. EST: Kansas City Chiefs Add Jaguars OT Jawaan Taylor on Four-Year Deal
The Kansas City Chiefs are set to sign former Jacksonville Jaguars tackle Jawaan Taylor to a four-year, $80 million deal with $60 million guaranteed, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Additional reporting from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport notes that the Chiefs will no longer pursue free-agent tackle Orlando Brown Jr. With right tackle Andrew Wylie agreeing to terms on a three-year deal with the Washington Commanders, the Chiefs will move on from both starting tackles from the 2022 season.
Taylor is coming off a career year with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Playing a career-high 1,039 snaps, Taylor allowed 14 blown blocks on a 1.3% blown block rate. Not only are both career-highs for the fourth-year tackle, his 14 blown blocks were tied for sixth-fewest among all linemen with at least 1,000 snaps in 2022, per Sports Info Solutions.
2:01 p.m. EST: Houston Texans Sign Case Keenum to Two-Year Deal
The Houston Texans have agreed to terms with quarterback Case Keenum, according to Gallery Sports’ John McClain.
Keenum spent the last season with the Bills backing up Josh Allen, joining Buffalo after two seasons with the Cleveland Browns. According to McClain, Keenum is set to backup whoever the Texans draft second overall in the 2023 Draft.
1:58 p.m. EST: Miami Dolphins Signs Former Jets Backup QB Mike White
The Miami Dolphins have agreed to a two-year deal with former New York Jets quarterback, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The deal is worth up to $16 million, per Schefter.
White was signed by he Jets in 2021 after being cut by the Dallas Cowboys. White came in as a replacement for Zach Wilson multiple times throughout his two years with the team, finishing 2-5 over two seasons. In 2022, White finished with a 68 DYAR and -0.9% DVOA through four starts.
1:56 p.m. EST: Buffalo Bills Sign Cowboys G Connor McGovern to Three-Year Deal
The Buffalo Bills have agreed to a three-year contract with former Dallas Cowboys guard Connor McGovern, according to a report from NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.
McGovern posted a 2.9% blown block rate on a career-high 862 snaps, allowing two sacks on 458 passing snaps. The Buffalo Bills ranked 13th in adjusted dline yards and 7th in adjusted sack rate in 2022.
1:55 p.m. EST: Washington Commanders Sign Chiefs RT Andrew Wylie
The Washington Commanders signed former Kansas City Chiefs right tackle Andrew Wylie to a three-year deal worth $24 million, according to a report from The 33rd Team’s Ari Meirov.
Wylie started all 17 games for the Chiefs in 2017 during their Super Bowl run. Wylie posted a career-high 4.4% blown block rate in 2022. His 45 blown blocks were second-most in the league behind Titans tackle Dennis Daley.
Washington ranked 30th in adjusted sack rate in 2022.
1:46 p.m. EST: Las Vegas Raiders Land 49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo
The Las Vegas Raiders are set to sign former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, according to a report from NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo. Additional reporting by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Garoppolo’s deal is three years for $67.5 million with $34 million in guaranteed money.
Check out our full write-up of the Garoppolo deal.
1:36 p.m. EST: Carolina Panthers Sign Saints DT Shy Tuttle to Three-Year Deal
The Carolina Panthers have agreed to a three-year, $19.5 million deal with former New Orleans Saints defensive tackle Shy Tuttle, according to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The deal includes $13 million guaranteed at signing.
Tuttle was signed as an undrafted free agent by the New Orleans Saints in 2019. In 2022, Tuttle posted a career-high 50 tackles and 2.0 sacks with the Saints.
1:30 p.m. EST: The Atlanta Falcons Re-Signed P Bradley Pinion to Three-Year Deal
The Atlanta Falcons and punter Bradley Pinion have agreed on a three-year, $8.65 million contract to keep Pinion in Atlanta, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Pinion gets $4.325 million guaranteed on the deal and $3.5 million in 2023, becoming the eighth highest-paid punter.
In 2022, Pinion ranked 18th in net yards per punt on 62 punts. His 23 punts inside the 20-yard-line ranked 19th in the league. Atlanta ranked fifth in the league in special teams DVOA, while their punting ranked 18th by Football Outsiders’ measurements.
1:30 p.m. EST: Detroit Lions Sign Former Steelers CB Cameron Sutton to Three-Year, $33M Contract
The Detroit Lions are signing former Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton to a three-year, $33 million contract with $22.5 million guaranteed, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Sutton allowed a 40.6% completion percentage and 5.0 yards per target on 64 targets, both career lows since becoming a starter. Sutton’s 12 pass breakups were tied for 14th-most in the league in 2022 while posting a career-best three interceptions.
The Detroit Lions ranked 28th in total defensive DVOA and 23rd in defensive passing DVOA. The Lions secondary allowed a 26th-ranked 13.2% DVOA to WR1s.
1:28 p.m. EST: Washington Commanders Sign Giants OL Nick Gates to Three-Year Deal
The Washington Commanders have agreed to a three-year, $16.5 million deal with New York Giants offensive lineman Nick Gates, according to a report from NFL Network’s Mike Garofolo.
Gates played 352 snaps in 2022, battling back from a left fibula break suffered against the Commanders in 2021. Gates allowed 10 blown blocks for a 2.8% blown block rate.
1:28 p.m. EST: Denver Broncos Sign 49ers RT Mike McGlinchey to Five-Year, $87.5M Deal
The Denver Broncos have signed another offensive lineman, landing former San Francisco 49ers right tackle Mike McGlinchey to a five-year, $87.5 million deal, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. The deal gives McGlinchey over $50 million in guarantees.
Check out our full write-up of the McGlinchey deal.
1:18 p.m. EST: Los Angeles Chargers Re-Sign Backup QB Easton Stick
The Los Angeles Chargers have re-signed quarterback Easton Stick to a one-year, $1.8 million contract, according to a report from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
Stic was selected by the Chargers in the fifth round of the 2019 draft. He has appeared in one game since joining Los Angeles, primarily serving as the third-string option behind Justin Herbert and Chase Daniel. Stick is expected to be the second-string option behind Herbert in 2023.
1:17 p.m. EST: New England Patriots Re-Sign LB Raekwon McMillan
The New England Patriots will bring back LB Raekwon McMillan on a one-year, $1.6 million deal worth up to $2.2 million, according to a report from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
1:16 p.m. EST: Washington Commanders Re-Sign CB Danny Johnson to Two-Year Deal
Cornerback Danny Johnson will return to the Washington Commanders on a two-year, $7 million deal with $2.75 million in guarantees, according to a report from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
Johnson started a career-high four games in 2022, allowing a career-low 53.1% completion and 4.5 yards per target while recording a career-high eight pass breakups and his first NFL interception. He finished tied for second on the Commanders in total passes defense despite appearing in just 11 games.
1:13 p.m. EST: New England Patriots Re-Sign DT Carl Davis to One-Year Deal
The New England Patriots will retain defensive tackle Carl Davis on a one-year deal, according to a report from the Boston Globe’s Andrew Callahan.
Davis has served as a depth defensive linemen for the Patriots the last three seasons. In 2022, Davis recorded 11 tackles, a pair of tackles for loss, and 1.0 sack on 213 defensive snaps.
1:12 p.m. EST: San Francisco 49ers sign Former Eagles DT Javon Hargrave to Four-Year, $84M Deal
The San Francisco 49ers have signed Eagles defensive tackle Javon Hargrave to a four-year, $84 million deal with $40 million guaranteed, according to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Check out our full write-up of the Hargrave deal.
1:07 p.m. EST: Denver Broncos Sign Raiders QB Jarrett Stidham to Two-Year Deal
The Denver Broncos are signing former Las Vegas Raiders backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham to a two-year deal worth $10 million, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Stidham’s deal will include $5 million in guarantees.
Stidham took over as starting quarterback for the Raiders after Las Vegas sent Derek Carr home. Stidham finished the two games 53-for-83 for 656 passing yards, four touchdowns and three interceptions with a 102 DYAR and -2.5% DVOA.
12:59 p.m. EST: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Will Release G Shaq Mason If No Trade Forms
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are looking to part ways with guard Shaq Mason, according to a report from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
Mason started all 17 games for a Buccaneers offensive line ravaged by injury. His 2.3% blown block rate and 26 blown blocks were both career highs for the guard. Mason is currently owed $8.5 million in 2023.
12:56 p.m. EST: Atlanta Falcons Sign Saints DT David Onyemata
The Atlanta Falcons have agreed to terms with former New Orleans Saints defensive tackle David Onyemata, according to a report from NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo. Additional reporting from ESPN’s Adam Schefter notes that Onyemata will receive $35 million with $24.5 million fully guaranteed.
In his seventh year with the Saints, Onyemata posted 5.0 sacks, the second most of his career. According to Sports Info Solutions, his 27 pressures from 2022 is tied for second-most in his career. Onyemata reunites with former Saints co-defensive coordinator Ryan Neilsen. He joins a Falcons defensive line that finished dead-last in adjusted sack rate in 2022.
12:55 p.m. EST: Houston Texans Sign Bronces FB/TE Andrew Beck
as first reported by FOX Sports’ Peter Schrager. Additional reporting from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport lists the contract at a two-year, $6.75 million deal with $4 million in guarantees.
Beck has recorded 14 receptions on 23 targets for 159 yards and a touchdown over four seasons with the Broncos. He has primarily served as a blocker and special teamer, playing 198 offensive snaps and 249 special teams snaps in 2022.
12:55 p.m. EST: Green Bay Packers Re-Sign CB/ST Keisean Nixon
The Green Bay Packers have re-signed All-Pro kick returner Keisean Nixon to a one-year contract worth a maximum of $6 million, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Nixon joined the Packers in 2022 after three seasons with the Raiders. In his first season returning kickoffs for Green Bay, Nixon led the league with 1,009 kick return yards and scored the longest kick return touchdown of the season (105 yds).
12:52 p.m. EST: Denver Broncos Sign Former Ravens G Ben Powers to Four-Year Deal
The Denver Broncos have signed Ravens guard Ben Powers to a four-year, $52 million deal, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Powers will get $28.5 million as part of the deal.
Powers played a career-high 1,033 snaps in 2022. His 1.2% blown block rate was seventh-lowest in the league among linemen with at least 500 snaps, according to Sports Info Solutions.
The Denver Broncos ranked 20th in adjusted line yards and 25th in adjusted sack rate in 2022.
12:37 p.m. EST: Philadelphia Eagles C Jason Kelce Returns for 2023
Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce has officially announced that he will return for the 2023 season.
I have put much thought into whether it makes sense to play another season. After talking it over with my wife and many other friends and family, I have decided to return for another year. Thank you to all my supporters and detractors for fueling me, I ain’t fucking done yet!
— Jason Kelce (@JasonKelce) March 13, 2023
Kelce allowed five blown blocks in 2022, the lowest among all linemen with at least 500 snaps, according to Sports Info Solutions.
12:36 p.m. EST: Baltimore Ravens Release DE Calais Campbell
The Baltimore Ravens have officially released veteran defensive end Calais Campbell, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Additional reporting from Ian Rapoport notes that Campbell could be back with the team.
Campbell posted 5.5 sacks with he Ravens in 2022, his most since 2019. His 29 pressures are the second-lowest total of his career, according to Sports Info Solutions.
12:26 p.m. EST: Los Angeles Chargers RB Austin Ekeler Asks for Permission to Seek Trade
Los Angeles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler has officially asked to speak with other teams about a potential trade, according to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Ekeler led the league with 18 total touchdowns and became the fifth player with at least 100 rushing attempts and 100 receptions. He finished 15th among running backs in rushing DYAR and DVOA; he posted a fifth-best 119 receiving DYAR among backs.
12:19 p.m. EST: Chicago Bears Sign Former Eagles LB T.J. Edwards to Three-Year Deal
The Chicago Bears and linebacker T.J. Edwards have agreed to a three-year deal, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
The deal is expected to be worth $19.5 million over three seasons, guaranteeing $12 million, according to Rapoport.
Edwards finished seventh in the league with a career-high 159 tackles in 2022. He also posted new highs in tackles for loss (17) and pressures (9) as a member of the league’s sixth-best defense by DVOA.
12:12 p.m. EST: Patriots Agree to Re-Sign Jonathan Jones to Two-Year Deal
The New England Patriots and cornerback Jonathan Jones have agreed to a two-year deal, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
According to Rapoport, Jackson’s deal is worth two years for $20 million with $13 million guaranteed.
Jones primarily played slot cornerback for the Patriots prior to 2022, pushed into an outside role by the departure of J.C. Jackson. Jones proceeded to allow a 47.9% completion percentage, his lowest since becoming a starter. His 6.7 yards per target were the second-lowest of his career, while his four interceptions were a career-high.
