Sam Darnold Lands in Seattle

Quarterback Sam Darnold is set to join the Seattle Seahawks, signing a three-year contract worth $110.5 million, which includes $55 million in guaranteed money. Darnold, who previously played for the Minnesota Vikings, showcased his abilities in 2024 by completing 66.2% of his passes,accumulating 4,319 passing yards,and throwing for 35 touchdowns against 12 interceptions. His arrival in Seattle marks a meaningful change for the Seahawks’ quarterback room.

Darnold feels like a downgrade from Geno ⁢Smith, ‍whom the​ Seahawks traded to the Raiders. But the terms of Darnold’s deal make it a huge win for Seattle,especially considering⁢ he was the top quarterback on the free-agent market. ​Both his APY and guarantees are outside of the top-15 for passers.So to get a ⁢27-year-old Darnold,who can be an above-average⁤ starter in spurts (as evident by his ‌work with ​the Vikings),and the third-round pick from the Smith trade is strong business for the Seahawks.They ​can still pursue a ​long-term quarterback,too. What⁤ Darnold looks like outside of Kevin O’Connell’s system remains to be seen, but being reunited with klint Kubiak ⁣— whom ⁢he worked with⁤ in San Francisco — ‍is a plus.

Grade: B

Chris Godwin Stays in Tampa Bay

Wide receiver Chris Godwin has committed to remaining with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, signing a three-year, $66 million contract that includes $44 million in guaranteed funds. During the 2024 season, Godwin demonstrated his value by recording 50 receptions for 576 yards and five touchdowns in just seven games. His continued presence is a significant boost for the Buccaneers’ offense.

Tampa⁣ Bay was able to keep the biggest piece of its offseason⁢ puzzle, guaranteeing two years even tho Godwin is recovering from ⁤a dislocated ankle that cut short his 2024 season. Godwin‌ might not be ready for​ the start of the 2025⁣ season, but he’s back⁢ as ⁤a ⁢1-2 punch ⁤with mike Evans, getting slightly more than his last deal ($60⁣ million over three years) and slightly more than Evans got last year. It’s all about continuity⁤ for⁤ the Bucs, who also brought back starting left guard ⁣Ben Bredeson‍ on a three-year deal worth $22 million. Before Godwin injured his ⁤ankle, he was among the league ​leaders seven games into the season.

grade: A-

Zack Baun’s Unexpected Return to Philadelphia

Linebacker Zack Baun is set to continue his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, agreeing to a three-year, $51 million deal with $34 million guaranteed. baun’s performance in 2024 was notable, as he accumulated 151 tackles, 3.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, and one interception. His return to Philadelphia solidifies the Eagles’ defensive lineup.

the⁣ Eagles and the 28-year-old Baun⁢ have ​both defied the⁣ odds with this deal that kept him off the free-agent market.When Baun first signed with Philadelphia a year ago, for just one year and $3.5 million, no one expected him to emerge as a star player — not even Eagles GM Howie roseman. He thought he had landed⁤ a good rotational linebacker and special ⁤teams⁤ standout.Instead, the player he got emerged as one of his best defenders, who⁣ kept it going in the postseason and even had a notable interception in the Super Bowl. Baun became an All-Pro and even finished fifth in the defensive Player‌ of the Year voting. So in ‍an offseason where the Eagles weren’t expected to be overly‍ aggressive in free agency,Roseman knew he had​ to keep one of his best⁤ defensive players,even if it meant ⁤spending on a linebacker — something he’s rarely ⁢done. But Baun was a perfect fit in‍ the Vic‍ fangio defensive scheme and proved to be a big-time player who came through in big spots.

Grade: A-

Chargers Retain Khalil mack

Edge rusher Khalil Mack will remain with the Los angeles Chargers after signing a one-year, $18 million deal that is fully guaranteed. During the 2024 season, Mack recorded six sacks, forced two fumbles, and earned his ninth Pro Bowl selection. His continued presence provides veteran leadership and pass-rushing prowess to the Chargers’ defense.

We had Mack as the No. 6 overall free agent, ⁤so the only concern is ⁣paying this much to a 34-year-old who had contemplated retirement. While you might get 17‍ sacks and five forced fumbles,⁣ like he had in 2023, it’s more likely you’ll get⁤ six sacks, like in 2024, and after‍ releasing Joey Bosa, the Chargers are likely​ not as good on the other side. Learn the name Tuli Tuipulotu — he’s the third-year pro who had ⁣8.5 sacks for Los Angeles ⁣last year and has to step up even more​ in 2025. it was ‍smart for the ‍Chargers to keep a defensive leader and locker room presence, ‍but it’ll be hard to get $18 million in production from Mack at ‍his age.

Grade: B-

Chiefs Extend Nick Bolton’s Contract

Linebacker Nick bolton has agreed to a three-year, $45 million contract extension with the Kansas City chiefs. In 2024, Bolton showcased his all-around abilities by recording 106 tackles, three sacks, one interception, six pass breakups, and one forced fumble. His extension ensures that he will continue to be a key component of the Chiefs’ defense.

It’s a good‍ deal for⁢ the Chiefs.‍The only question is about positional value. Do you want‍ an inside ⁢linebacker to‍ be one of your highest-paid players? Maybe the​ Chiefs are seeing the ascendance of running backs⁢ (See: Barkley,saquon) and thinking‍ they’ll need Bolton more​ than ever in the years to‍ come. And the good news is that while he’s highly paid,he’s actually still taking a team-kind deal at three years and $45 million,roughly $3 million less annually than what Bears linebacker Tremaine edmunds got when he hit free agency in 2023. Bolton ​clearly wanted to stay with K.C., and that’s no doubt because the Chiefs‌ are in the Super Bowl almost every year.It’s ironic that a⁣ team like the Patriots, desperate for talent, would⁤ have had to pay ⁤Bolton millions more per year to get ​him to bolt. The Chiefs are getting discounts in a way that we realy haven’t seen ⁤since Tom Brady and Bill Belichick were running the show in New England.

Grade: B+

Josh Sweat Heads to Arizona

Defensive end Josh Sweat is set to join the Arizona Cardinals,signing a four-year contract worth $76.4 million, including $41 million in guaranteed money. During the 2024 season with the Eagles,Sweat recorded eight sacks,41 tackles,nine tackles for loss,and two passes deflected. His move to Arizona reunites him with a familiar face.

The 6-foot-4, 265-pound edge rusher will be reunited with Jonathan Gannon in Arizona, wich is significant because Sweat had his best NFL season when gannon was his⁢ defensive coordinator in Philadelphia.But his 11 ‌sacks that year, 2022, appear to be an outlier ⁣in his career. The 27-year-old ​has been a strong pass rusher, but not‌ a dominant one. He’s also struggled to find consistency at‌ times. The

Grade: C+

Colts Make a Splash with Charvarius Ward

The Indianapolis Colts have substantially bolstered their defense by signing cornerback Charvarius Ward to a three-year,$60 million contract,which includes $35 million guaranteed. Ward, coming off a season with seven pass breakups and 54 tackles in 2024 with the 49ers, represents a major investment for the Colts. This move signals a notable shift in strategy under Colts General Manager Chris Ballard, who is known for a more conservative approach in free agency.

The acquisition of Ward marks the largest financial commitment the Colts have made to an external free agent during Ballard’s tenure. This aggressive approach also includes the signing of ex-Vikings safety Cam Bynum to a four-year, $60 million deal, further emphasizing the Colts’ focus on improving their secondary. New defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo is expected to play a key role in maximizing the impact of these additions.

The Colts are betting that Ward’s consistent performance and availability will pay dividends. The $20 million signing bonus is a significant win for Ward, solidifying his value in the current market and reflecting the Colts’ belief in his ability to elevate their defense.

one analyst gave the Ward signing a grade of B+.

General manager Chris Ballard is operating fully differently this offseason than in previous years. the $60 million that Indianapolis is giving Ward is the most total money the franchise has given an external free agent in the Ballard era.

Davante Adams Joins the Los Angeles Rams

Wide receiver davante Adams is set to bring his talents to the West Coast, signing a two-year, $46 million deal with the Los Angeles Rams. Adams, who recorded 85 receptions, 1,063 receiving yards, and eight touchdowns in 2024 while playing for the Jets, is expected to fill a crucial role for the Rams. The team is looking to Adams to compensate for the absence of Cooper Kupp and complement the emerging star Puka Nacua.

Adams’ familiarity with the offensive system, stemming from his time with the Packers under former Rams Offensive Coordinator Matt LaFleur, is expected to facilitate a smooth transition. The Rams are optimistic that Adams, at 32, can revitalize his career in Los Angeles, mirroring the success they achieved with Odell Beckham Jr. during their Super Bowl-winning season.

the Rams are banking on Adams’ experience and skill set to provide a reliable target for their quarterback and significantly enhance their offensive firepower. His presence is anticipated to open up opportunities for other receivers and improve the overall efficiency of the Rams’ passing game.

One analyst gave the Adams signing a grade of B+.

Adams gives head coach Sean McVay a nice complement to No. 1 receiver Puka Nacua. adams, 32, also brings familiarity with the offense from his time in Green Bay playing in former Rams OC Matt lafleur’s system with the Packers.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Add Haason reddick to Defensive Front

Edge rusher Haason Reddick has signed a one-year, $12 million contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Reddick, who recorded one sack in 10 games in 2024 after holding out, previously played for the Jets. The Buccaneers are hoping Reddick can recapture his previous form,where he consistently recorded double-digit sacks,providing a much-needed boost to their pass rush.

The Buccaneers are aiming to improve their pass rush and generate more consistent pressure without relying heavily on blitzing. Defensive Coordinator Todd Bowles is seeking to increase takeaways, hoping Reddick can replicate his 2022 performance with the Eagles, where he had 16 sacks and five forced fumbles. This addition is seen as a key component in Bowles’ strategy to create a more aggressive and disruptive defense.

the Buccaneers are taking a calculated risk, hoping reddick’s struggles in 2024 were an anomaly and that he can return to being a dominant force on their defensive line. His performance will be crucial in determining the success of the Buccaneers’ defensive efforts in the upcoming season.

One analyst gave the Reddick signing a grade of B.

Can the Bucs get the Reddick who had double-digit sacks four years in a row from 2020-23? That’s the hope, as they make a major addition to their defensive front, hoping to get more consistent pressure without blitzing.

Aaron Jones Returns to the Minnesota Vikings

Running back Aaron Jones is returning to the Minnesota Vikings on a two-year, $20 million contract. Jones, who rushed for 1,138 yards and five touchdowns in 2024, while also adding 51 catches for 408 yards and two touchdowns, had a prosperous first season with the team after coming over from Green Bay. His return provides stability and experience to the Vikings’ ground game.

The vikings are bringing back Jones to provide stability and experience to their ground game,especially with potential changes at the quarterback position. Jones’ performance in 2024 justified his value to the team, and the Vikings are hoping he can continue to be a reliable offensive weapon. His versatility as both a runner and receiver makes him a valuable asset in the Vikings’ offense.

While Jones may not be in the same tier as Saquon Barkley or Derrick Henry,he proved to be a valuable free-agent addition for the Vikings in 2024. The contract structure allows the Vikings adaptability, as only $13 million is guaranteed, providing financial flexibility for the team.

One analyst gave the Jones signing a grade of B.

It made lots of sense to bring Jones back. His 1,138 rushing yards was a career high, and he fit in well after coming in from Green bay.

Justin fields Joins the new York Jets

Quarterback Justin Fields has signed a two-year, $40 million contract with the new York Jets, with $30 million guaranteed. Fields, who played for the Steelers in 2024, recorded 1,106 passing yards, five passing touchdowns, one interception, 289 rushing yards, and five rushing touchdowns in six starts and 10 games played. The Jets are hoping Fields can revitalize his career in New York.

After a challenging start to his career, Fields showed significant enhancement with the Steelers, particularly in reducing his interception percentage. Though, concerns remain about whether the Jets are the right habitat for him to thrive, given the franchise’s history with quarterbacks. The Jets are looking for Fields to provide stability and playmaking ability at the quarterback position.

The Jets are hoping that Fields can build on his progress and overcome the challenges that have plagued him in the past. The team is looking for him to provide stability and playmaking ability at the quarterback position, hoping he can finally unlock his full potential in a new environment.

one analyst gave the Fields signing a grade of C+.

After his year in Pittsburgh, Fields will have to prove what he couldn’t in Chicago: that he can rise above his circumstances. I like Fields. I don’t like the Jets for Fields. And forgive me for feeling like it’s not going to end well for anyone involved.

Zach Ertz Stays with the Washington Commanders

tight end Zach Ertz has re-signed with the Washington Commanders on a one-year, $6.25 million contract. Ertz, who had 66 catches, 654 yards, and seven touchdowns in 2024, bounced back after a challenging period in Arizona. His continued presence provides a reliable target for the Commanders’ passing game.

Ertz developed a strong connection with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, providing a reliable target in the passing game. The Commanders are looking for Ertz to continue to be a valuable asset,especially with the addition of Deebo Samuel,creating a perhaps dynamic offensive combination.

Ertz is approaching significant milestones, needing only 40 catches to pass Shannon Sharpe for fifth all-time among tight ends. Another productive season could also place him in the top 10 for touchdowns among tight ends, adding extra motivation for the veteran tight end.

One analyst gave the Ertz signing a grade of B+.

Ertz had a nice bounce-back year in 2024, getting seven touchdowns and clicking with rookie Jayden Daniels after totaling five scores in the previous two seasons. he looked close to retirement in Arizona, but found himself with the Commanders, and gives Daniels an easy fallback target with sure hands when the downfield options aren’t ther.

Marquise Brown Remains with the Kansas City Chiefs

Wide receiver Marquise Brown has re-signed with the Kansas City Chiefs on a one-year, $6.85 million contract, with $4 million in incentives. Brown’s 2024 season was limited by injury, as he recorded only nine catches for 91 yards in two regular-season games.The Chiefs are hoping he can stay healthy and contribute more significantly in the upcoming season.

the chiefs’ receiving corps has undergone significant changes,with injuries and off-field issues impacting several players.Brown’s role in the offense remains uncertain, especially with the emergence of Xavier Worthy and Rashee Rice. His ability to stay healthy and contribute consistently will be crucial in determining his impact on the team.

The Chiefs are hoping that Brown can stay healthy and contribute as a reliable target for their quarterback. His potential role as the no.3 receiver depends on the health and availability of Worthy and Rice,making his performance a key factor in the Chiefs’ offensive success.

One analyst gave the Brown signing a grade of B.

Kansas City’s receivers are a blur — injuries, off-field problems, a half-dozen free agents. the Chiefs made the Super bowl essentially without Brown, so he’s a forgotten presence in this offense.

Mike Gesicki Joins the Cincinnati Bengals

Tight end Mike Gesicki has signed a three-year, $25.5 million contract with the Cincinnati bengals. Gesicki,who had 65 catches for 665 yards and two touchdowns in 2024,is looking to make an impact with his new team

Hear’s a breakdown of the provided text,summarizing the key information and offering potential improvements:

Summary of the NFL Free Agency Article:

The article reports on several notable signings and contract extensions during the 2024 and 2025 NFL offseasons. Key highlights include:

2024:

Sam Darnold (Seahawks): Three-year, $110.5 million contract.Graded B. Seen as a possibly above-average starter but a downgrade from Geno Smith.

Chris Godwin (Buccaneers): Three-year, $66 million contract. Graded A-. Staying with Tampa Bay despite an ankle injury.

zack Baun (Eagles): Three-year, $51 million contract. Graded A-. Exceeded expectations in his previous year with the team.

Khalil Mack (Chargers): One-year, $18 million fully guaranteed contract. Graded B-. A veteran presence but at an age where production may decline.

Nick Bolton (Chiefs): Three-year, $45 million contract extension. Graded B+. A good deal for the Chiefs, considering his positional value.

Josh Sweat (Cardinals): Four-year, $76.4 million contract. Graded C+. Reunited with his former defensive coordinator but with inconsistent past performance.

2025:

Charvarius Ward (colts): Three-year, $60 million contract. Graded B+. A significant investment for the Colts, marking a shift in their free agency approach.

Davante Adams (Rams): Two-year, $46 million contract. Graded B+. Aims to fill a key role for the Rams’ offense.

Haason Reddick (Buccaneers): one-year, $12 million contract. Graded B. A gamble on Reddick returning to his previous high level of performance.

Aaron Jones (Vikings): Two-year,$20 million contract.Graded B. Returning to the Vikings after a successful first season.

Justin Fields (Jets): Two-year,$40 million contract. Partial information provided.

Clarity and Structure: while the article covers many signings,the institution could be improved. grouping players by position or team might enhance readability. A table summarizing the contracts would be beneficial.

Completeness: The details on justin Fields’ signing are incomplete. More information is needed for a thorough assessment.

Analysis Depth: While the quotes offer some insight, more in-depth analysis of the contracts’ value relative to the player’s performance and market value would strengthen the article. Comparing the contracts to similar players’ deals would provide context.

headings and Subheadings: More descriptive headings and subheadings would improve the article’s scannability and make it easier to find specific information.

Visuals: adding images of the players would enhance the article’s visual appeal and engagement.

* Consistency: The grades are inconsistently formatted (e.g., “B”, “A-“, “B+”). Standardize this.

By addressing these points, the article would become more informative, engaging, and easily digestible for readers.