After a hectic week in the NFL with multiple trades and signings, most players have now found a home. Many QBs went on the move, while other defensive players got record-breaking contracts. Here are the 3 biggest winners from the free agency period in the NFL.
Las Vegas Raiders
Notable FA Moves: Traded for QB Geno Smith, Extended DE Maxx Crosby, Signed S Jeremy Chinn
My first big winner of free agency is the Las Vegas Raiders. The Pete Carroll effect is real. Within just weeks, he has turned this roster from a bottom 7 team to a playoff contender. He brought in a familiar face, QB Geno Smith, who is an established top 10-15 QB in the league. The Raiders were also able to extend their best player on the roster in Maxx Crosby. With the free-agent additions of Jeremy Chinn, Eric Stokes, Raheem Mostert, Elandon Roberts, and a few others, the Raiders roster is starting to build some serious depth. Although the loss of Robert Spillane will hurt, the Raiders will have the depth to fill in his gap. If the Raiders can add a true WR1, I could see them sneaking into the playoffs in a loaded AFC.
Chicago Bears
Notable FA Moves: Signed C Drew Dalman, Signed DT Grady Jarrett, Signed DE Dayo Odeyingbo, Traded for G Joe Thuney, Traded for G Jonah Jackson
My second, and probably biggest, winner of free agency is the Chicago Bears. In a matter of days, Chicago's offensive line went from one of the worst units to one of the best in the league. Last year, Caleb Williams was running for his life. This year, he may not even have to leave the pocket. On the defensive side of the ball, Chicago's D-line has turned into an absolute unit. With Montez Sweat already there, the signings of Jarrett and Odeyingbo will be huge for Chicago. With first year head coach Ben Johnson, I expect Caleb Williams to take a massive leap and lead Chicago to a wild card spot.
JJ McCarthy
My final winner is Minnesota Vikings QB JJ McCarthy. After missing his rookie season due to injury, McCarthy was forced to watch from the sideline as Sam Darnold revived his career and had a fantastic season in Minnesota. Lucky for McCarthy, Sam Darnold signed with the Seahawks in free agency, leaving McCarthy as the clear QB in Minnesota. For a rookie QB, you can't ask for a situation better than the Vikings. McCarthy has two elite weapons in Jefferson and Addison, along with a mastermind coach in Kevin O'Connell. I expect McCarthy to have a very solid year as the starting QB of the Vikings, assuming they do not bring in Aaron Rodgers.
NFL Free Agency Winner?
Biggest Winner?
JJ McCarthy
Chicago Bears
Las Vegas Raiders
Other? (List in comments)
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