It would be hard for to argue that this wasn’t one of the top free agencies this past decade. From quarterbacks, to wide receivers, to safeties, and the list goes on, this free agency had it on. Today we take a look at the 7 biggest and most impactful free agency moves in the mayhem of the NFL world
Honorable Mentions: Steffon Diggs to the Bills, Todd Gurley to the Falcons, DeForest Buckner to the Colts, Trai Turner to the Chargers
7. Eric Ebron to the Steelers
Steelers sign Eric Ebron to a 2 year, $12 million deal.
This signing by the Steelers has not been talked about enough. Eric Ebron didn’t get as much recognition as he deserved this past season, simply due to the lack of QB play.
In just 2 seasons with the Colts, Ebron racked up 16 touchdowns on just 97 catches. It is safe to say he was efficient. The Steelers have been struggling at the TE position, with just Vance McDonald, who has not proven much.
Eric Ebron has been far more productive and efficient, and can definitely provide a boost to this team that they need in order to make the playoffs.
Overall, this was a very underrated signing. There might have been better players signed, but this was one of the most valuable signings for a position in desperate need.
6. Cory Littleton to the Raiders
Cory Littleton signs a 3 year deal with the Raiders worth up to $36 million
It’s safe to say the Raiders are severely struggling at the linebacker position. Ever since the departure of All-Pro LB Khalil Mack, the Raiders have not been the same. The L.A. Raiders went from 31 sacks in 2017 (with Khalil Mack), to a mere 10 sacks this past season. The team is in need of pass rushers and coverage LBs, and Littleton is just that.
The best thing is, Littleton is in the midst of his prime. Entering this season at 26 years old, he is destined to do great things for the Raiders. After starting his first full season in 2018, Cory had an impressive 7.5 sacks along with 5 interceptions.
The Raiders will able to grab an upcoming great LB this offseason, and it just happens to be one of the best moves so far.
5. Darius Slay to the Eagles
Darius Slay was traded to the Eagles for a 2020 3rd round pick and a 2020 5th round pick.
Darius Slay is a stud. There is no questioning that. But just like Barry Sanders, Megatron, and Stafford, he was about to waste his whole career in Detroit without winning. Luckily for Slay, he found a new home.
The Eagles secondary is horrendous. In the 2019 regular season, the Eagles had 8 CBs consistently played snaps for the Eagles. All of them had a PFF grade below 70.0. The Eagles NEEDED Slay.
The Eagles are in desperation to get their 2nd Super Bowl, and Darius Slay is mighty helpful to help one of the worst secondaries in the league.
This trade was a win-win for both the Eagles and Slay, as the Eagles were able to improve their worst position group, and Slay got out of Detroit where a Super Bowl is far fetched.
4. Emmanuel Sanders to the Saints
Saints sign Emmanuel Sanders to a 2 year, $16 million deal.
Everyone knows that the Saints have All-Pro WR Micheal Thomas. However, it is not very popular to some people that the rest of their WR core isn’t too great. That is what makes this signing so significant.
Emmanuel Sanders was plain out a game-changer for the 49ers lat season. He showed out in the biggest games (He had 157 yards against the Saints in 2019). Sanders brings out new options for Drew Brees, which can make this team even more dynamic. This is a scary thought.
The Saints filled a major whole and come back as even stronger Super Bowl contenders. Sanders might be a little old compared to other WRs, but has not lost his game, and will be back next season better than ever,
You can count on big things from Drew Brees and his offense next season.
3. Byron Jones to the Dolphins
Byron Jones signed a 5 year, $82.5 million deal with the Dolphins
Byron Jones is an athletic freak. Whether it be speed, coverage, or jumping, this man can do it all. He is now the highest paid CB in the NFL. He might not be the best overall CB in the NFL, but he still can play at an All-Pro level.
The Dolphins needed Jones. According to PFF Rankings, the Dolphins were dead last (#32) in coverage defense during 2019’s regular season. They gave up 36 touchdown passes (2nd most in the league), and the 8th highest yards per reception.
The Dolphins played the 4th most man coverage defense in 2019, and if they wish to continue this, they need a player like Byron Jones. Overall, this has been one of the best signings this offseason, and Byron Jones will prove why he deserves top CB money!
2. DeAndre Hopkins to the Cardinals
DeAndre Hopkins is trade to the Cardinals in exchange for David Johnson, a 2020 2nd round pick, and a 2021 4th round pick
Out of every move from this free agency, this is no doubt the most shocking move. Bill O’Brien traded away one of the best WRs in the NFL for David Johnson, who has been on a major decline since 2015.
The Cardinals absolutely robbed the Texans. They just paired Hopkins, one of the league’s best receivers, with Kyler Murray. Add Kenyan Drake to his mix, and you have one scary offense.
Hopkins has had over 1,000 yards in 5 of his 7 seasons, along with 54 total TDs.
Kliff Kingsburg will work his magic with this new offense, and possibly take them to the playoffs. The NFC West could see 3 teams in the playoffs this year.
1. Tom Brady to the Buccaneers.
Tom Brady signs a 2 year, $50 million deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Tom Brady is surely not the same QB that he was 5 years ago, but he definitely hasn’t lost his game.
And if you think age is affecting him, remember that he won a Super Bowl just 2 years ago. Oh, and don’t forget he has one of the best offenses he’s ever had this season.
With Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, you can count on Brady to return to the same MVP level he was at a couple years ago. Add that with a coach like Bruce Arians, and this can be a top 3 offense.
The over/under for Tampa Bay is currently at 9.5 wins, but don’t be surprised to see them win 12-13, AND win the division.
The Super Bowl just happens to be in Tampa Bay this year, and we could see a team play in their home stadium in the Super Bowl for the first time ever.
Just like the NFC West, the NFC South is just as capable to send 3 teams to the playoffs. The Buccaneers are going to be a fun team to watch this season with the GOAT on their team.
