NFL free agency officially begins today as players will be signed and traded all over the NFL. There are many big names on the market and many big trades are likely to be made. Many teams are very close to being Super Bowl contenders and this is their chance to establish themselves as a top tier team.
There have been some moves that have been already made. Star Bengals receiver Tee Higgins, who was supposed to become a free agent, was franchise tagged for the second year in a row, keeping him on the Bengals for another year.
Star Jets receiver Davante Adams was released and then signed with the Rams on a two year, 46 million contract. The Seahawks released franchise-great receiver Tyler Lockett. Josh Allen signed a record breaking six year, $330 million contract Star Eagles running back Saquon Barkley became the highest paid running back, getting a two year, $41.2 million contract.
“I think that Saquon changed the running back position and running backs will finally get the money they deserve,” freshman Eli Paul said.
Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith was traded to the Raiders for a third round pick. Right after Lockett was released, Seahawks star receiver DK Metcalf requested a trade. The Packers would have been a great fit for him, but the Steelers swooped in and took him for a second round pick and flipping picks in the sixth and seventh round.
The Seahawks have gotten rid of three offensive weapons and have only gotten draft picks and money in return. They will now have to get receiver depth and address offensive line issues.
“I would’ve been very excited if DK Metcalf came to the Packers,” freshman Bennett McNulty said.
In addition, 49ers receiver Deebo Samuel is being traded to the Commanders for a fifth round pick. Rams offensive lineman Jonah Jackson is being traded to the Bears for a sixth round pick. Chiefs star offensive lineman Joe Thuney is being traded to the Bears for a fourth round pick. The Bears also signed center Drew Dalman to a three year, $42 million contract. The Bears have made big moves to their offensive line which was the biggest problem during their season.
Sam Darnold has officially left the Vikings and signed with the Seahawks on a three year, $100 million contract. The Seahawks quickly replaced Smith after trading him.
“Lots of teams were fighting for Sam Darnnold and we will see if the signing was worth it for the Seahawks,” Paul said.
Some big names that are free agents are quarterbacks Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson, wide receiver Stefon Diggs, safety Justin Reid, and running back Rico Dowdle.
