2016 NFL Free Agency

[Kingspoint]

From Rotoworld w/ Rotoworld comments:

NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reports the Dolphins' deal with free agent Mario Williams should be finalized on Tuesday, and will be worth $8 million per season.

It's expected to be a two-year deal. The offseason is the Dolphins' postseason. Their March dynasty is approaching Belichick-esque levels. Now 31, Williams was widely accused of quitting last season before being released by the Bills last week. Williams is one of the best pass rushers of his generation, and is well worth a flier, but it will be a risky deal for the perennially cap-strapped 'Fins. His addition will almost certainly mean the release of Cam Wake.

Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter


Eagles signed CB Leodis McKelvin, formerly of the Bills, to a two-year contract.

Per NFL.com's Ian Rapoport, it's worth "just over" $6 million. McKelvin was limited to sub-packages for the Bills down the stretch last season, and finished with just 404 snaps. Although he can play both inside and out, and the Eagles are completely remaking their secondary, McKelvin will probably be No. 3 or 4 on the depth chart for 2016. It's worth noting that he's reuniting with DC Jim Schwartz, who coordinated the Bills' defense in 2014. Injury limited McKelvin to 10 games and 551 snaps that season, though he picked off four passes.


Ravens agreed to terms with TE Ben Watson, formerly of the Saints.

Although Watson isn't one of the bigger names of free agency, it's one of the most surprising deals. The New Orleans media widely expected Watson to re-up with the Saints, while the Ravens already have young tight ends Crockett Gillmore and Maxx Williams in tow. That's not to mention a suspended Nick Boyle. The Ravens are clearly concerned about Gillmore's shoulder and back operations. Now 35, Watson had a renaissance 2015 in New Orleans, but caught only 39 passes from 2013-14. Watson was a legitimate TE1 last season, but figures to tumble back down the ranks in Baltimore.

Source: Jeff Zrebiec on Twitter


According to Raul Martinez of FOX 31 Denver, it "sounds like" the Bears have offered a four-year deal to free agent ILB Danny Trevathan.

The money is unknown, but it wouldn't be surprising if Trevathan pushed for $8 million annually. Inside linebacker was by far Chicago's biggest defensive weakness last season, and inside linebacker is a key position in Vic Fangio's 3-4 defense, where he had Patrick Willis and Navorro Bowman in San Francisco. The Bears look like the early front-runners to land Trevathan.

Source: Raul Martinez on Twitter


Jaguars agreed to terms with DL Malik Jackson, formerly of the Broncos, on a six-year, $90 million contract.

The deal includes a whopping $42 million guaranteed, making Jackson one of the highest paid defensive players in league history. He'll get $45 million over the first three years of the deal. Coming off a monster 2015, Jackson, who turned 26 last month, will be transitioning from a 3-4 attack to a 4-3 defense, but has the skills to collapse the pocket no matter the system. It's a huge get for the Jaguars, who desperately need to goose their pass rush in Year 4 of the Gus Bradley era.

Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter


Bills re-signed LG Richie Incognito to a three-year, $15.75 million contract.

The two sides appeared to be drifting apart at this time last week when it was reported the Bills were "frustrated" Incognito wouldn't take a "cut-rate deal" and give the team a discount. But it got done a day before the market opened, and Incognito will be back between franchise player LT Cordy Glenn and C Eric Wood after making the Pro Bowl this past season following his year away.

Source: Tyler Dunne on Twitter


Giants re-signed LE Jason Pierre-Paul to a one-year contract.

It's worth "up to $10.5 million." Pierre-Paul was seeking a long-term deal, and the Cardinals reportedly made a late push to sign him, but JPP is returning to New York to bank on himself having a bounce-back year and hitting the free-agent market again next March at 29 years old. He recorded just one sack in eight games last season, but still proved to be disruptive off the edge. Retaining Pierre-Paul shouldn't preclude GM Jerry Reese from adding more pass-rush help. It's a huge need still with DE Robert Ayers also a free agent.

Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter


Steelers re-signed CB William Gay to a three-year contract.

Gay started all 16 games for the Steelers last season, grading out as Pro Football Focus' No. 34 overall corner among 118 qualifiers. At 31 years old, he's probably best suited for a sub-package role at this stage of his career, but the Steelers need to find more bodies outside after whiffing on their extension with CB Cortez Allen. Cornerback is a position of need in Pittsburgh.

Source: Mark Kaboly on Twitter


Bears re-signed franchise player WR Alshon Jeffery to a one-year, $14.599 million contract.

Signing the deal guarantees Jeffery's $14.6 million salary, but the Bears are hopeful it eventually results in a long-term arrangement. Still only 26 years old, Jeffery's 2015 16-game pace stats were 96-1,435-7, though he missed seven games due to injury. Jeffery played full 16-game seasons in both 2013 and 2014, suggesting last year's injuries can largely be chalked up as bad luck.

Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter


NFL Network's Rand Getlin reports the Raiders and free agent G/T Kelechi Osemele have an agreement in principle on a five-year, $60 million deal.

This deal would dramatically reset the guard market, but it is likely the Raiders are signing Osemele to replace LT Donald Penn, who is expected to bolt in free agency. If Penn re-signs, Osemele would join LG Gabe Jackson and C Rodney Hudson in a stacked interior line. The deal is expected to be finalized when the new league year begins Wednesday afternoon.

Source: Rand Getlin on Twitter


Chargers re-signed RT Joe Barksdale to a four-year, $22.2 million contract with $10.5 million fully guaranteed.

Barksdale, 28, was the only Chargers' offensive lineman able to stay healthy last season, making all 16 starts while the rest of the line crumbled next to him. Barksdale had an up and down year, but received positive marks from PFF for his pass blocking on the right side. The Chargers will hope LT King Dunlap, LG Orlando Franklin, and RG D.J. Fluker can stay healthy in 2016.

Source: Michael Gehlken on Twitter


Colts re-signed TE Dwayne Allen to a four-year, $29.4 million contract.

Things took a 180-degree turn for Allen in Indianapolis. After the season ended, Allen seemed destined to get out of town with the Colts failing to use him whatsoever in the pass game last season, as he reeled in just 16 passes on a mere 26 targets. But the Colts really value Allen for his all-around game as a strong blocker at the point of attack and big red-zone presence. It remains to be seen if the Colts will also pony up to keep free agent Coby Fleener, but conventional wisdom suggests they'll move on. If Fleener is out of the picture, Allen will have a chance to really boost his offensive game in 2016 with a healthy Andrew Luck. Allen, of course, needs to stay healthy himself after missing 21 games the past three years.

Source: Profootballtalk on NBC Sports


The Eagles are "finalizing" a trade that will send DeMarco Murray to the Titans when the NFL's new league year opens Wednesday afternoon.

NFL observers should be impressed with Eagles GM Howie Roseman, who in a matter of days will be unloading a huge chunk of salary, and three players who were almost entirely ineffective in 2015. Kiko Alonso and Byron Maxwell are also headed out the door. Murray averaged 3.64 yards per carry last season, and his legs have appeared dead since the end of the 2014 campaign in Dallas, where Murray amassed nearly 500 all-purpose touches. In theory, Murray will give the Titans a bellcow running back and provide an upgrade on Antonio Andrews. Like Murray, however, Andrews also finished last season with a 3.64 YPC average. Murray, of course, is far more skilled in the passing game. Either way, this trade looks like a big win for Philadelphia and a potentially ugly one for Tennessee.

Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter


ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the Dolphins are expected to acquire LB Kiko Alonso and CB Byron Maxwell from the Eagles.

Appearing on NFL Live, Schefter reported Miami would get Alonso, Maxwell, and "draft pick compensation" in exchange for "draft pick compensation" that would obviously be better for the Eagles. Schefter stated the deal is "expected to get done." Alonso and Maxwell were both big-name players acquired last offseason by Chip Kelly. Both players flopped spectacularly in Philadelphia.

Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter


Jaguars signed restricted free agent DE Ryan Davis to a one-year, $2.553 million contract.

It's a nice raise for Davis after he played for less than $1 million last season. Although undersized, Davis has arguably been the Jaguars' best pass rusher the past two years. That's more of an indictment on the talent around him, but Davis has been a pleasant find for coach Gus Bradley.

 

[Kingspoint]

Here, you can track who signs who for 2016 NFL Future's contracts:

NFL Futures Deals - Rotoworld.com


This is a fairly complete version of 2016 Free Agents broken down by the all important designation of UFA or RFA:

2016 NFL Free Agents Tracker


Here is another source of 2016 NFL Free Agents with ProFootballFocus's grades of the players, including if they have been franchise-tagged or transitional-tagged:

2016 Free Agency Tracker | NFL | Pro Football Focus

 

[cincygrad]

Hmmmm. I see the Steelers are getting Gay on the corner.

Not there is anything wrong with it.

 

[Kingspoint]

Hmmmm. I see the Steelers are getting Gay on the corner.

Not there is anything wrong with it.

Last year was the first year he hasn't been a liability for them. I have my doubts on whether he can put together another good season.

 

[Kingspoint]

From Rotoworld w/ Rotoworld comments:

Panthers re-signed DE Charles Johnson to a one-year, $3 million contract.

It's surprisingly little money for the 29-year-old pass rusher, though he is coming off an injury-ruined, one-sack regular season. Johnson supposedly turned down $6 million elsewhere to stay home in Carolina. Johnson flirted with the Bucs and Giants over the last few days, visiting both clubs likely in an effort to drive up the Panthers' contract offer. One of the best players in Panthers history, Johnson showed he still has gas in the tank with a dominant postseason. Besides perhaps Kony Ealy, Johnson arguably had the best performance by a Carolina defender in Super Bowl 50. He piled up nine tackles, three sacks, and two forced fumbles in the Panthers' three playoff games.

Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter


Titans agreed to terms with C Ben Jones, formerly of the Texans, on a four-year contract.

Jones started his career as a guard, but made the switch to center last season, playing 1,274 snaps through knee and back issues. The Titans are making it a point to upgrade their offensive line, and Jones will replace Brian Schwenke at the pivot after Schwenke has yet been able to finish a 16-game season thanks to injuries and ineffectiveness. Jones was a league-average starter at best in Houston, finishing 2015 as Pro Football Focus' No. 22 center out of 40.

Source: Aaron Wilson on Twitter


Raiders agreed to terms with SLB Bruce Irvin, formerly of the Seahawks.

Being dubbed a "pass rusher" by the media, Irvin has just 22 career sacks in four full seasons. He's more of a strong-side linebacker and should improve that area of Oakland's defense. Irvin could also be asked to play "Leo" defensive end after Justin Tuck retired, Aldon Smith was suspended, and Mario Edwards suffered what's believed to be a potentially career-threatening neck injury as a 2015 rookie. Irvin's signing reunites him with DC Ken Norton, who coached LBs in Seattle through the 2014 season. The Raiders had a boatload of money to spend, and have now landed LT/OG Kelechi Osemele and Irvin.


Jaguars agreed to terms with RB Chris Ivory, formerly of the Jets.

This one comes out of left field. T.J. Yeldon was the 36th pick in last year's draft, but the Jaguars don't necessarily view him as a 20-plus touch-per-game back. Yeldon rarely got opportunities in the red zone as a rookie, with the Jaguars instead opting to go pass-heavy inside the 20-yard line or give looks to fringe RBs Toby Gerhart, Shoelace Robinson, and Jonas Gray. Ivory projects to now handle scoring-position work in a timeshare with Yeldon, who averaged 4.1 YPC as a rookie. Yeldon also battled a couple of nagging injuries, including a sprained MCL. Ivory hasn't had health on his side in his career, either, but is a downhill power runner for OC Greg Olson.

Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter


DeMarco Murray agreed to a revised contract with the Titans that has a base value of $25.5 million over four years.

That's a $6.34 million annual average, although Murray can earn up to $33 million via incentives. The deal contains $12.5 million guaranteed. The Titans now have Murray under control through his age-31 season. Including playoffs, Murray amassed 497 touches in 2014 with Dallas. He logged 237 more last year.

Source: Profootballtalk on NBC Sports


The Tampa Bay Times' Rick Stroud reports the Bucs are "nearing a deal" with free agent Doug Martin.

It's expected to come in around $6.85 million per year after Chris Ivory was able to somehow land $6 million-plus annually from the Jaguars, setting the market for running backs. The dominos are starting to fall with Ivory going to Jacksonville, Martin likely staying put, and Lamar Miller reportedly on his way to Houston. Keeping Martin made the most sense for the Bucs after he turned his career around in 2015 following a couple injury-plagued 2013 and 2014 seasons.

Source: Rick Stroud on Twitter

 

[futballiscool]

Philip Rivers has to face Von Miller, Kahlil Mack, Justin Houston, Demarcus Ware, Tamba Hali, and Bruce Irvin in his division games. That's murders row of edge rushers

As far as the Bengals go I think they have to let Marvin Jones walk. With AJ and Eifert on the team he'll never be more than a third option and he deserves to be paid like a borderline number one.

Iloka should be re-signed at a fair market deal

 

[DanBengalfan]

I see the Jaguars have been pressured by the NFL to spend money.

 

[Kingspoint]

From Rotoworld w/ Rotoworld comments:


Giants agreed to terms with NT Damon Harrison, formerly of the Jets, on a five-year, $46.25 million contract with $24 million guaranteed.

It's a big get for a Giants defense that couldn't stop the run last year. They'll now be able to line up "Snacks" Harrison (6'3/339) next to Johnathan Hankins (6'3/320) in an effort to fix those woes. Harrison, 27, finished last season as Pro Football Focus' No. 2 overall run-stopping defensive tackle. Harrison's price is awfully steep for a two-down player, of course. The Giants still need outside pass rush in a major way.

Source: Kim Jones on Twitter


Lions agreed to terms with WR Marvin Jones, formerly of the Bengals, on a five-year, $40 million contract.

The deal contains $17 million guaranteed. It's a nice chunk of change for Jones, who has big shoes to fill as Calvin Johnson's replacement as the new No. 1 receiver. It'll be a more collective effort to replace Megatron, but there are a ton of balls to be caught in OC Jim Bob Cooter's offense. Jones will be the preferred option in the red zone, along with third-year TE Eric Ebron, who the Lions hope will make a gigantic leap. Jones caught 10 touchdowns in 2013.

Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter


Buccaneers agreed to terms with RB Doug Martin on a five-year, $35.75 million contract, including $15 million guaranteed.

He can earn another $6.75 million through incentives. It became evident in recent days/hours that Martin's reported breakdown in talks with the Bucs was mere posturing in negotiations. A favorite of new head coach Dirk Koetter, Martin's best landing spot was always the team that drafted him in 2012. Martin, 27, finished the 2015 season with a 288-1,402-6 rushing line, averaging a career-best 4.87 yards per carry and ranking No. 2 in the NFL in rushing behind only Adrian Peterson. Charles Sims will continue to be a drain on Martin's 2016 PPR outlook, but he'll return as a clear-cut RB1 in fantasy football. With Chris Ivory in Jacksonville and Martin staying in Tampa Bay, Matt Forte, Lamar Miller, and Arian Foster are free agency's top-three running backs left.

Source: Roy Cummings on Twitter


Falcons signed C Alex Mack, formerly of the Browns, to a five-year contract.

MMQB's Peter King reports the deal is worth $9.5 million per year. Mack reportedly could have made more by staying in Cleveland, but the allure of Falcons OC Kyle Shanahan was a factor. Mack played for Shanahan in Cleveland and is a great fit in his blocking scheme. With Mack on board, the Falcons will turn their attention to the hole at right guard. They have been linked with J.R. Sweezy.

Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter


Eagles agreed to terms with S Rodney McLeod, formerly of the Rams, on a five-year, $37 million contract.

The deal includes $17 million guaranteed. It's a huge haul for someone who arguably wasn't even one of the three best safeties available. McLeod is coming off a breakout 2015, however, and is still only 26 (in June). He's forced 12 turnovers the past three seasons and was PFF's No. 10 overall safety last year. The Eagles needed to remake their secondary, and this is a good second step after dumping Byron Maxwell. McLeod will form an excellent tandem with Malcolm Jenkins.

Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter


Chargers agreed to terms with WR Travis Benjamin, formerly of the Browns, on a four-year, $24 million contract.

Benjamin was widely expected to remain with the Browns, but talks broke down on the verge of free agency. He replaces Malcom Floyd as the Chargers' go-to deep threat, and will be a legitimate No. 2 alongside Keenan Allen. Still only 26, Benjamin could retain WR3 value in fantasy for a team that loves to throw.

Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter


975 The Fanatic's Geoff Mosher reports the Eagles and Titans will swap fourth-round picks as the terms of the DeMarco Murray trade.

The exact terms haven't been established because compensatory picks will move the slots down, but it's obviously a minor price for Tennessee to pay. The Titans do have the No. 2 pick in round four, so the Eagles will move to the top of that round. The Titans move down 12 slots. The real reason Philadelphia dealt Murray was to get rid of his contract. That deal was revised upon his arrival in Nashville, and is now valued at $25.5 million over four years.

Source: Geoff Mosher on Twitter


Eagles agreed to terms with QB Chase Daniel, formerly of the Chiefs, on a three-year, $21 million contract with $12 million guaranteed.

Daniel was near the top of a typically thin quarterback market, but has had to settle for a clear No. 2 job instead of a competition elsewhere. It's still not a bad landing spot. Daniel is reuniting with ex-Chiefs OC Doug Pederson and will be backing up one of the league's shakiest and most injury prone starters in Sam Bradford. Daniel will probably make starts at some point during his deal. Daniel's addition means Mark Sanchez will be released. It's worth noting that Daniel's deal is longer than Bradford's.

Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter


Vikings agreed to terms with OG Alex Boone, formerly of the 49ers, on a four-year, $26.8 million contract.

It's an indication the Vikings expect to lose free agent Mike Harris. The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports Boone will slide in at left guard, kicking Brandon Fusco back to the right side. A starter in San Francisco each of the past four seasons, Boone has fallen off since a monster 2012, but is still better than replacement-level. Going on 29, he's also reasonably durable.

Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter


Dolphins acquired WLB Kiko Alonso, CB Byron Maxwell, and the No. 13 overall pick in the 2016 draft from the Eagles in exchange for the No. 8 overall pick in this year's draft.

Alonso was thrown into the deal as a way to sweeten the pot for the Dolphins to take on mega-bust, damaged goods CB Byron Maxwell and his disgusting six-year, $63 million contract. Alonso is coming off a 2014 torn ACL of his own and again partially tore the same ligament last season before returning for the final nine games of the season after missing seven weeks. When healthy, Alonso is an athletic, rangy linebacker, but he simply wasn't a good player last year.


Bengals re-signed S George Iloka to a five-year, $30 million contract.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the deal will pay out $18 million over the first three seasons. Iloka drew "serious interest" from several teams, but the Bengals smartly ponied up the money to keep the 25-year-old in town. With Reggie Nelson expected to hit the market, Cincinnati still has a hole to fill at safety, although they may view 2013 third-round pick Shawn Williams as the heir apparent to Nelson.


Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter


Giants agreed to terms with CB Janoris Jenkins, formerly of the Rams, on a five-year, $62.5 million contract.

The deal includes $29 million in fully guaranteed money. After turning down five years and $45 million from the Rams, Jenkins went on to hit it big as the No. 1 available corner. The $12.5 million per year places Jenkins as the league's seventh-highest paid corner in terms of annual average. The Giants better hope they're getting the 2015 version of Jenkins rather than the 2012-2014 one who got roasted routinely for big plays. Jenkins has allowed 22 touchdowns in his coverage across his four NFL seasons. The G-Men have a ton of money invested in cornerback with Jenkins and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. They now need to find safety help and some pass rushers.

Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter


Cowboys re-signed MLB Rolando McClain to a one-year, $5 million contract.

McClain had a big bounce-back year with Dallas in 2014 before re-signing last March on a one-year deal. He was then suspended the first four games of the year before reentering the starting lineup in Week 5. McClain graded out well in pass coverage, but didn't make as much of an impact in other areas. Injury-prone and a knucklehead, McClain is still a solid piece in the middle.

Source: Rand Getlin on Twitter


Steelers re-signed LG Ramon Foster to a three-year contract.

It's an underrated keep for a Steelers offensive line that has gelled well together under OC Todd Haley. Foster started all 18 games last season and didn't miss a single snap. He turned 30 in January and graded out very favorably in pass protection and as a run blocker last season.

Source: Mark Kaboly on Twitter


49ers re-signed NT Ian Williams to a five-year contract.

An overachiever at nose tackle in San Francisco's 3-4, Williams is a former UDFA out of Notre Dame. He enjoyed a breakout 2015 campaign, earning PFF's No. 6 overall run-defense grade among defensive tackles while logging 58 percent of the 49ers' defensive snaps. Retaining Williams is a rare wise move by GM Trent Baalke, on whose watch the 49ers' roster has otherwise gone in the gutter.

Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter


Redskins re-signed QB Colt McCoy to a three-year contract.

Jay Gruden has made a living coaching up talent-deficient but fundamentally-sound quarterbacks like Andy Dalton and Kirk Cousins, and McCoy fits that mold as a weak-armed passer with plus peripheral attributes. In spot duty the past two seasons under Gruden, McCoy has completed 70.5 percent of 139 throws for 1,185 yards (8.5 YPA) and a 5:3 TD-to-INT ratio. McCoy turns 30 in September.

Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter

 

[Kingspoint]

From Rotoworld w/ Rotoworld comments:


Cardinals signed S Tyvon Branch to a two-year, $10 million contract with $5 million guaranteed.

The Cardinals love stockpiling safeties for their dime packages, which essentially serve as DC James Bettcher's base defense. Branch, 29, figures to primarily be a sub-package safety in Arizona, upgrading on outgoing free agent Rashad Johnson. A cornerback at UConn, Branch clocked a blazing 4.31 forty coming out of college. Branch is coming off a 43-tackle season in Kansas City.

Source: Mike Garafolo on Twitter


Rams re-signed DE William Hayes to a three-year contract.

Despite being a 30-year-old rusher with zero seasons of more than seven sacks, Hayes was a hot name during the tampering window. The Rams were "intent" on keeping Hayes to replace the released Chris Long, however, and they paid up to keep their man. Hayes will bookend RE Robert Quinn.

Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter


Bears agreed to terms with ILB Danny Trevtahan, formerly of the Broncos.

Trevathan was a sixth-round pick back in 2012, but turned into a strong starter for the Super Bowl champions. Coach John Fox was in Denver when the team drafted Trevathan. In Chicago, he'll call the plays and be the new linchpin in the middle of DC Vic Fangio's 3-4 defense. Trevathan was PFF's No. 6 inside 'backer last season, getting plus marks for his run defense and coverage.

Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter


Bengals re-signed OT Eric Winston to a one-year, $1.09 million contract.

The 11-year veteran played 176 snaps as a reserve last season. His 2016 should unfold in similar fashion.

Source: Aaron Wilson on Twitter


Rams re-signed DE William Hayes to a three-year, $17.5 million contract.

The deal contains $10 million guaranteed and carries a maximum value of $21 million. Despite being a 30-year-old rusher with zero seasons of more than seven sacks, Hayes was a hot name during the tampering window. The Rams were "intent" on keeping Hayes to replace the released Chris Long, however, and they paid up to keep their man. Hayes will bookend RE Robert Quinn.

Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter


Texans signed G/T Jeff Allen, formerly of the Chiefs, to a four-year, $28 million contract.

Allen can play tackle, but he will likely play guard in Houston after Brandon Brooks bolted in free agency. With Brock Osweiler and Lamar Miller also coming to town, the Texans are completely remaking their offense. Allen should play a pivotal role in that transformation.

Source: Mike Garafolo on Twitter


Rams re-signed WLB Mark Barron to a five-year, $45 million contract.

It's a pretty penny for a player who only recently converted from safety. Per ESPN's Nick Wagoner, keeping Barron was the Rams' "top priority." Barron had a strong 2015 filling in for Alec Ogletree. Ogletree will man the middle in 2016. Barron is a playmaker, one the Rams are counting on to force fumbles and pick off passes in coverage. The No. 7 overall pick of the 2012 draft has bounced all the way back after it looked like he was going to be a bust.

Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter


Eagles agreed to terms with RG Brandon Brooks, formerly of the Texans, on a five-year, $40 million contract.

Brooks played right guard for the Texans last season, but he also has experience at left guard and right tackle. Look for him to play inside in Philadelphia, replacing Matt Tobin at right guard. Brooks was coveted by the Texans, but Houston had its attention elsewhere with Lamar Miller and Brock Osweiler. Brooks received strong marks for his pass protection from PFF last season. At nearly 340 pounds, 26-year-old Brooks also offers mauler potential in the run game.

Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter


Texans agreed to terms with RB Lamar Miller, formerly of the Dolphins, on a four-year, $26 million contract.

The deal includes $14 million guaranteed, and is worth an annual $6.5 million. It's more than fair for a 25-year-old back (in April) who owns a 4.6 career YPC, catches passes and rarely gets hurt. It's surprising the Dolphins were so willing to let Miller walk while handing out gobs of money to veteran defensive free agents. Miller could remain part of a committee in Houston, but will undoubtedly be chairman. His fantasy game might finally explode in 2016. He's a firm RB1.

Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter


Lions re-signed DT Haloti Ngata to a two-year contract.

Ngata has been expected to sign an extension since he was acquired in a trade on the first day of free agency last year, but it is just now getting done. Ngata was limited to 14 games last season, but he remained an effective player when on the field. Even on the decline, Ngata remains a force inside.


Texans agreed to terms with QB Brock Osweiler, formerly of the Broncos, on a four-year, $72 million contract.

The Houston Chronicle's John McClain had previously reported Osweiler was unlikely to go to the Texans. Osweiler called the Broncos' bluff, and will now team up with skilled QB tutor Bill O'Brien, who maximized the talents of Matt McGloin and Christian Hackenberg at Penn State, before doing the same with Ryan Fitzpatrick, Brian Hoyer, and even T.J. Yates and Brandon Weeden the past two years in Houston. Osweiler, 25, went 5-2 in seven starts for Denver last season. It's unclear whether he'll develop into a legitimate franchise quarterback, but he offers adequate arm strength and plus athleticism, and flashed the ability to move the Broncos' offense in a small sample size. He also had breakdowns in the second halves of games, tended to lock onto his primary read, was benched for washed-up Peyton Manning late in the year. The Broncos may now set their sets on trying to acquire Colin Kaepernick from San Francisco.

Source: Rand Getlin on Twitter


Jets agreed to terms with RB Matt Forte, formerly of the Bears.

The 30-year-old running back was also drawing interest from the Dolphins, who hired Forte's ex-OC Adam Gase as head coach. Forte takes the lead in a backfield that's lost Chris Ivory to the Jaguars, and will likely be watching Bilal Powell walk, as well. Forte has averaged just 4.0 yards per carry over the past two seasons, but remains one of the league's most versatile backs. He is an elite pass catcher out of the backfield. He'll likely be a part of a committee with another free agent or draft pick, but will undoubtedly be chairman. As long as he stays healthy, Forte will likely remain a top-18 fantasy back for 2016.

Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter


Raiders signed G/T Kelechi Osemele, formerly of the Ravens, to a five-year, $58.5 million contract.

Another $1.5 million is available through incentives. $12 million per year would be a lot to pay a guard, but Osemele is likely to take over at left tackle for departing free agent Donald Penn. With Osemele joining LG Gabe Jackson and C Rodney Hudson, the Raiders have the makings of a strong offensive line.

 

[Kingspoint]

From Rotoworld w/ Rotoworld comments:


Giants signed RE Olivier Vernon, formerly of the Dolphins.

Source: Mike Garafolo on Twitter


Dolphins agreed to terms with S Isa Abdul-Quddus, formerly of the Lions, on a three-year, $12.75 million contract.

Abdul-Quddus actually stepped in nicely as an eight-game starter for the Lions last season, grading out as Pro Football Focus' No. 1 overall safety from Week 10 on after replacing SS James Ihedigbo in the starting lineup. It's a good get for Miami, as at the very least, Abdul-Quddus will be an asset on special teams. He'll get the first crack at the starting gig next to SS Reshad Jones.

Source: Adam Caplan on Twitter


Vikings signed LB Emmanuel Lamur.

He also had interest from Miami and Detroit. Lamur played under Mike Zimmer for two seasons in Cincinnati and should compete for a weak-side role opposite Anthony Barr. Lamur's signing suggests the Vikings could move on from free agent Chad Greenway.

Source: Chris Tomasson on Twitter

 

[Kingspoint]

Nice to see Lamur gone, though I don't know what Zimmer sees in him given the quality of the Vikings' LB's. At best, I can't see Lamur getting more than 180 snaps for the Vikings next season. Perhaps with so few of snaps as a Bengal, he would be more effective. He was used way too much in Cincy.

 

[cincygrad]

Nice to see Lamur gone, though I don't know what Zimmer sees in him given the quality of the Vikings' LB's. At best, I can't see Lamur getting more than 180 snaps for the Vikings next season. Perhaps with so few of snaps as a Bengal, he would be more effective. He was used way too much in Cincy.

He was used a lot here because Zimmer really liked him.... I think he was Zimmer's project, got hurt in year one of Guenther and than did nothing in year 2 of Guenther. Maybe Zimmer thinks he can get something out of him that we haven't seen. Regardless - It hurts the depth a little, but I'm happy they are moving on. It would be nice to see them draft/sign an OLB that has some coverage skills.

 

[Kingspoint]

From Rotoworld w/ Rotoworld comments:


Titans agreed to terms with WR Rishard Matthews on a three-year contract.

He chose the Titans over the Patriots, almost certainly because Tennessee offered more money. Matthews, 26, caught 43 passes for 662 yards and four touchdowns in 11 games for the Dolphins last year, showing playmaking ability in the short and intermediate range. He is adept after the catch and has strong hands. In Tennessee, Matthews should provide a big upgrade on Harry Douglas in three-receiver sets alongside Dorial Green-Beckham and Kendall Wright. With Matthews, DeMarco Murray, and C Ben Jones added so far, the Titans' offense has a chance to take a big step forward in Marcus Mariota's second year

Source: Paul Kuharsky on Twitter


Steelers signed TE Ladarius Green, formerly of the Chargers, to a four-year, $20 million contract.

The match couldn't be more perfect on paper for both player and team. With Heath Miller's unexpected retirement following the season, the Steelers needed an all-around tight end, and Green fits the bill. Green first found his way onto the field in San Diego because he knew how to block. It's an added bonus because Green is already a gifted athlete at 6'6/240. He ran a 4.56 forty at the 2012 Combine with a 10-foot-4 broad jump. He's dripping with upside with Ben Roethlisberger in one of the game's top-three passing offenses and out of Antonio Gates' shadow.


Chiefs re-signed DT Jaye Howard to a two-year, $12 million contract.

The Chiefs are getting the band back together on defense with Howard, Tamba Hali and Derrick Johnson all agreeing to new contracts. Howard logged a career-high 5.5 sacks last season while playing all over the Chiefs' defensive line.

Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter


Falcons signed DE Derrick Shelby, formerly of the Dolphins, to a four-year, $18 million contract.

Shelby was one of the more underrated free agents on the market. After the Dolphins lost LE Cameron Wake to a torn Achilles' last season, Shelby stepped in as the starter opposite Olivier Vernon and graded out as Pro Football Focus' 10th-ranked 4-3 end, playing really well against the run. He's shown flashes of pass-rush juice over the past three seasons, and the Falcons are banking on him turning it up a notch as a full-time starter opposite Vic Beasley.

Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter


Chiefs re-signed ILB Derrick Johnson to a three-year, $21 million contract.

Johnson had a bounce-back year after missing most of 2014 to Achilles surgery, leading the Chiefs with 116 tackles and four sacks. He'll remain with the only organization he's ever played for. The $7 million AAV places Johnson in the top-12 among inside linebackers. Johnson's new deal keeps him signed through 2018, his age-36 season.


Bengals re-signed CB Adam Jones to a three-year contract.

"Pacman" was one of the 3-4 best cornerbacks left on the market. Jones made it clear he was seeking top dollar, but he's getting it from the team that helped save his career. He drew heavy interest during the "legal tampering" period. Going on 33, Jones was one of the league's best corners last season, though his devastating penalty in the Wild Card round helped send the Bengals home early. Even as a tenured veteran, Jones remains a high-risk, high-reward player.

Source: Mike Garafolo on Twitter


Jaguars signed FS Tashaun Gipson, formerly of the Browns, to a five-year, $35.5 million contract.

Jacksonville is not winning free agency at the level of the Giants or Dolphins, but they are throwing plenty of money around on defense. After signing Malik Jackson to a massive deal to upgrade the pass rush, the Jags are bringing in the ball-hawking Gipson to shore up the secondary. Gipson should be a big upgrade over Josh Evans and Sergio Brown, but Jacksonville still has some work to do on the back end. For Cleveland, they have now lost four top-tier players on the first day of free agency.

Source: Rand Getlin on Twitter


Saints signed TE Coby Fleener, formerly of the Colts, to a five-year, $36 million contract.

Fleener is a catch-first tight end, but has improved as a blocker. His Colts numbers were routinely held back by a timeshare with Dwayne Allen, but he's caught at least 50 passes each of the past three years. That will be his absolute floor in a Saints offense that heavily targets the tight end position. Fleener could easily catch 75 passes in 2016. His fantasy arrow is screaming upward.

Source: Mike Garafolo on Twitter


Buccaneers signed OG J.R. Sweezy, formerly of the Seahawks, to a five-year, $32.5 million contract.

Losing Sweezy, LB Bruce Irvin, and NT Brandon Mebane (so far), Seattle will be set up well in the compensatory draft pick process. Although Sweezy has a big name, he was a 16-game starter on one of the NFL's worst offensive lines last season, and graded out 69th among 82 qualifiers in PFF's guard grades. The 27-year-old (in April) will be tasked with replacing retired Logan Mankins.

Source: Rick Stroud on Twitter


Chiefs signed RT Mitchell Schwartz, formerly of the Browns, to a five-year deal.

The Browns foolishly played hardball with the best right tackle on the market and lost. Schwartz should play on the right side in Kansas City, but it is possible they experiment with him at left tackle, a position currently manned by first-round bust Eric Fisher. The Browns have lost two of the best offensive lineman in the league on the opening day of free agency.

Source: Rand Getlin on Twitter


Chargers signed DT Brandon Mebane, formerly of the Seahawks, to a three-year contract worth $13.5 million.

A run-stopping specialist, Mebane spent the first nine years of his career in Seattle. He'll be a body in the middle of a line that was routinely gashed by the run in 2015.


Bears signed RT Bobby Massie, formerly of the Cardinals, to a three-year, $18 million contract.

A fourth-round pick in 2012, Massie started 46 games at right tackle for the Cardinals over the last four seasons. Pro Football Focus gave him negative grades as a pass protector last season, but he has been a solid run blocker throughout his career. After struggling at right tackle, this signing should allow Kyle Long to move back to his natural guard spot.

Source: Jason Cole on Twitter


Giants signed RE Olivier Vernon, formerly of the Dolphins, to a five-year, $85 million contract.

The deal includes $40 million fully guaranteed and is a record-setting contract. The Giants came into the offseason needing to do something about their woeful pass rush. And they've done just that by first re-signing LE Jason Pierre-Paul and now going out and landing probably the biggest fish on the board in Vernon. Vernon was Pro Football Focus' No. 1 overall 4-3 end last season, recording 81 combined sacks, hits, and hurries, while also playing elite run defense. By adding Vernon and DT Damon Harrison on Wednesday, the Giants greatly boosted their defense.

Source: Mike Garafolo on Twitter

 

[Kingspoint]

From Rotoworld w/ Rotoworld comments:


Cowboys agreed to terms with DL Cedric Thornton, formerly of the Eagles, on a four-year, $18 million contract.

The deal includes $6 million fully guaranteed. A run-stopping extraordinaire, Thornton was a full-time starter each of the past three years for the Eagles. He was a defensive end in Philly's 3-4, but he should replace Nick Hayden as the one-technique in the Cowboys' 4-3. Thornton is a much-needed reinforcement for a Cowboys line that's been running dangerously low on bodies this offseason.

Source: Todd Archer on Twitter


Dolphins signed restricted free agent RB C.J. Anderson to a four-year, $18 million offer sheet.

The Broncos now have five days to match, or Anderson will reunite with new Dolphins coach Adam Gase and become Miami's bellcow back. Anderson can catch, pass block, and run inside, and he has system familiarity after playing in Gase's 2014 offense in Denver. If the Broncos fail to match Anderson's offer sheet, they will receive no compensation. Had the Broncos given Anderson a second-round tender instead of the "original-pick" tender, they would've received a second-round pick had this same scenario played out. (It wouldn't have.)

Source: Mike Klis on Twitter


Lions re-signed LB Tahir Whitehead to a two-year contract worth more than $8 million.

Although Whitehead lost his starting job to begin last season in Detroit, he retook the position beginning in Week 10 and excelled as a run defender in the Lions' final eight games. He also chipped in five special teams tackles. Whitehead turns 26 in April. Still ascending, he's a savvy re-signing by the Lions.

Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter

 

[Kingspoint]

Arizona is becoming Cicinnati West.

Frostee Rucker has become a defensive force for them the last two years.

CP was in the MVP race all year.

Gresham resigned this week.

Hall, Andre Smith and Mathis have visits this week.

 

[cincygrad]

Arizona is becoming Cicinnati West.

Frostee Rucker has become a defensive force for them the last two years.

CP was in the MVP race all year.

Gresham resigned this week.

Hall, Andre Smith and Mathis have visits this week.

And that performance against Carolina in the playoffs..... That was very Bengal-like.

 

[DanBengalfan]

Karlos Dansby released by Cleveland Browns

I wonder if he knows we have Rey Mauluga, you don't need any other line backers if you got Rey Motha truckin Mauluga, you can go in the nickle and dime package all day long.

 

[cincygrad]

Interesting.... Not sure why Dansby would mention the Bengals explicitly if he didn't have good reason to believe they were interested.

And it's the type of guy we like to sign..... A free agent that doesn't count as a free agent when computing the formula for compensation picks.

 

[alf8478]

We would sign Dansby 4 years after we should have

 

[DanBengalfan]

we'll wait for his price to go down first.