NFL Free Agency Period Opens With Fireworks
The Coronavirus has stripped sports fans everywhere of game action, but the NFL has used this period to dominate the headlines with many roster moves.
The NFL free agency period doesn’t begin officially until 4 p.m. eastern time on March 18, but teams have already made changes and announced some unofficial signings.
DeAndre Hopkins Traded to The Arizona Cardinals
This was the first blockbuster move of the NFL offseason. Many fans speculated why the Texans would make this move (that was even denied on Madden 20) and it could only be one reason; they didn’t want to pay him.
The Texans and Hopkins agreed to a five-year deal $81 million deal in 2017, with an average base salary of 16.5 million. Hopkins was due to receive $12.5 million for the 2020 season, but the trade clears that amount off the Texans cap. Ironically, the Texans gave wide receiver, Randall Cobb, $40 million, $17 of which is guaranteed.
Hopkins has been considered one of the best, if not the best, wide receiver in the NFL. He eclipsed 1,000 yards receiving and was named an All-Pro for the third consecutive season. Not to mention he will only be 28 by the time the NFL season starts.
Texans Head coach, Bill O’Brien, has not been afraid to trade away his best players. Prior to last season, he traded away Jadeveon Clowney after placing the franchise tag on him. O’Brien, who claimed full control of personnel a year ago, says any move the team makes is for the long-term. The long-term move for Hopkins seems to be acquiring picks and saving cap space for other players.
Tom Brady Era ends in New England
Tom Brady announced via social media he will not return to the New England Patriots for the 2020 season, becoming a free agent for the first time in his career.
His free agency didn’t last long.
According to sources, Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers agreed to terms on a one-year deal worth up to $30 million.
NFL Fans flocked to social media to share their “analysis” on the end of Brady’s reign in New England; they were equally excited for his arrival in Tampa Bay.
The Buccaneers have a wide receiver corps that has the size, speed, and power. Mike Evans leads the group, that includes Chris Godwin, O.J Howard (TE), and Breshard Perriman. For the first time in his career, Brady will have a prime group of top-notch receivers.
If everything goes right with Brady’s pre-signing procedures, the Buccaneers will have another question to answer; what to do with Jameis Winston? Winston led the league in passing yards (5,109), 2nd in passing touchdowns (33), and first in interceptions (30).
Indianapolis Colts and Phillip Rivers Agree to a One-Year $30 million
This could be a case of panic.
After Andrew Luck announced his abrupt retirement, the Colts were left with Jacoby Brissett, a career backup quarterback, to helm the ship. Brisset had flashes but failed to throw over 3,000 yards and 20+ touchdowns with a 7–8 record.
Phillip Rivers is 38-year olds, going into his 16th season. He threw for 23 touchdowns and 20 interceptions with 88.5 QB rating. His 15th season was mild and pedestrian to say the least.
Rivers is a gunslinger. He is fiery. A true competitor, but he is not worth $30 million at this point in his career. $30 million is the price for top-tier quarterbacks. Rivers’s 2020 salary would place him as one of the top-ten highest-paid quarterbacks; a list that features players in the prime of the careers.
Teddy Bridgewater to replace Cam Newton?
Teddy Bridgewater earned himself a payday this offseason after replacing Drew Brees for five games during the 2019 season. Bridgewater went 5–0 with nine touchdowns, and a 99.1 QB rating.
That success landed him a three-year deal worth $63 million with the Carolina Panthers, which leads to the question…
What does this mean for Cam Newton?
If there is any indication from Instagram, it means the former MVP talents will be used elsewhere.
Bridgewater isn’t making starting quarterback money, but the Panthers announced they are open to trade talks for Newton. Newton denied the claims he wanted to be traded and the new head coach, Matt Rhule, said he wants Newton to remain on the team.
Whether Bridgewater is the backup or the potential starter, we have a little quarterback drama in Carolina.
Viking Trade Stephon Diggs to Bills
Instead of examining why the Vikings decided to trade away one of their best playmakers, let’s look at what the trades do for the Bills.
Last season, Josh Allen threw for over 3,000 yards with his two best receivers shorter than six feet. It was impressive to see the young QB manage a receiving corps lacking a premier talent on the outside.
Now he has Stephon Diggs, one of the league’s top young talents. Diggs adds more speed and route running to the group, but most importantly, he adds the big play factor. Diggs can change a game in one play, just ask the New Orleans Saints.
The Bills had to give up four picks in the 2020 draft but the core of the team is young, and with the addition of Diggs, the offense has some real star power.
