The first wave of NFL free agency saw several big names change teams, making it one of the busiest starts in recent memory. Kirk Cousins signed with the Atlanta Falcons, Saquon Barkley joined the Philadelphia Eagles, Brian Burns was traded to the New York Giants, Josh Jacobs and Xavier McKinney headed to the Green Bay Packers, and Derrick Henry became a Baltimore Raven.
Following the legal tampering period, a number of top free agents remain without a deal. One player in particular generating interest is Stephon Gilmore, a 33-year-old cornerback who had an impressive season with the Dallas Cowboys. Despite his age, Gilmore showcased his skills with 68 tackles, 13 passes defended, and two interceptions. He allowed only four passing touchdowns and had a 60.3 passer rating when targeted. Gilmore’s experience and talent make him an intriguing prospect for teams in need of defensive help.
Another notable free agent is Jadeveon Clowney, an edge rusher who finished second on the Baltimore Ravens with 9.5 sacks last season. While the Ravens have expressed interest in bringing him back, negotiations may be complicated due to Clowney accepting a discounted rate in the previous season. The potential reunion between Clowney and the Ravens will depend on finding common ground in contract discussions.
Trent Brown, an offensive tackle who struggled with injuries last season, is also seeking a new team. Having spent the past three seasons with the New England Patriots, Brown’s health concerns raise questions regarding his ability to perform consistently. However, his experience and potential make him an attractive option for teams in search of offensive line reinforcements.
Another player drawing attention is Julian Blackmon, a safety who quickly became a starter for the Indianapolis Colts following being drafted in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft. With four interceptions and two fumble recoveries last season, Blackmon showcased his playmaking abilities. His potential for growth and impact on defense make him an exciting prospect for teams looking to bolster their secondary.
Mekhi Becton, an offensive tackle drafted by the New York Jets in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft, is looking for a fresh start following experiencing a tumultuous first four seasons in the league. While Becton has faced challenges, his size and athleticism make him an intriguing option for teams in need of offensive line talent.
Wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., who missed the entire 2022 season due to an ACL tear suffered while playing for the Los Angeles Rams in Super Bowl LVI, spent the following season with the Baltimore Ravens. Though his numbers were modest – 35 catches for 565 yards and three touchdowns – Beckham’s potential impact in the right offensive system cannot be overlooked.
Another wide receiver looking for a new team is Tyler Boyd, a former number one receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals. After posting consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons, Boyd’s production has decreased with the emergence of Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase. His experience and proven track record make him an appealing target for teams seeking a reliable receiver.
Steven Nelson, a veteran cornerback who played a crucial role in helping the Houston Texans win the AFC South last season, is also on the market. Nelson started in 16 of his 17 regular season games and displayed his ability to break up passes and create turnovers. His solid performance in coverage and leadership skills make him an attractive option for teams looking to strengthen their secondary.
Adoree’ Jackson, a 28-year-old cornerback, is another player generating interest. With a passer rating of 68.6 as the primary defender in coverage in 2023, Jackson’s ability to limit opposing quarterbacks is evident. While he may not be the highest-ranked free agent, his consistent performance and potential for improvement make him an intriguing prospect for teams in need of secondary help.
The final notable free agent on the list is Ryan Tannehill, a quarterback who was displaced as a starter by Will Levis last season. Tannehill, the 2019 NFL Comeback Player of the Year, offers experience and leadership as a backup quarterback. Similar to how Joe Flacco aided the Cleveland Browns’ playoff push last season, Tannehill might fulfill a similar role for a team seeking quarterback depth.
Potential Future Trends and Predictions
The first wave of NFL free agency has set the stage for potential future trends and developments in the league. With several big-name players finding new teams, it is evident that the landscape of the NFL is ever-changing. Here are a few predictions and recommendations for the industry based on the themes presented in the article:
1. Emphasis on Defensive Impact Players
The signings of Stephon Gilmore and Jadeveon Clowney highlight the importance of defensive impact players. Teams will continue to prioritize securing elite defensive players who can disrupt opposing offenses and create turnovers. As the game evolves, the need for versatile and dynamic defenders will only grow.
2. Value of Offensive Line Stability
Despite the injury concerns surrounding Trent Brown and Mekhi Becton, teams recognize the value of a stable and reliable offensive line. Protecting quarterbacks and creating running lanes are critical for offensive success. Look for teams to invest in offensive linemen who can provide consistency and stability to their respective units.
3. Reclamation Projects for Wide Receivers
The cases of Odell Beckham Jr. and Tyler Boyd demonstrate the potential value of reclamation projects for wide receivers. While their recent production may not have been elite, their past performances indicate the talent and ability is still there. Teams willing to take calculated risks may find themselves with highly productive receiving threats at a fraction of the cost.
4. Cornerback Market Demand
The availability of talented cornerbacks like Steven Nelson and Adoree’ Jackson highlights the demand for solid coverage players in the league. With offenses evolving and passing attacks becoming more potent, teams will seek cornerbacks who can neutralize top receivers and provide consistency in coverage. Expect the cornerback market to remain active as teams address their defensive needs.
5. Backup Quarterback Importance
The presence of experienced backup quarterbacks like Ryan Tannehill becomes increasingly valuable as teams strive for stability in their quarterback depth chart. Injuries happen, and having a reliable signal-caller to step in and maintain the team’s performance level can make all the difference in a competitive league. Teams should prioritize finding capable backups to mitigate the impact of potential quarterback injuries.
In conclusion, the first wave of NFL free agency has set the stage for potential future trends and developments in the league. As teams continue to shape their rosters, they must consider the implications of these signings and recognize the ongoing evolution of the game. Whether it’s prioritizing defensive impact players, investing in offensive line stability, or taking calculated risks on wide receivers, teams must adapt to the changing landscape to remain competitive in the NFL.
