March 1st: Matthew Stafford Restructures Contract with the Rams

The Los Angeles Rams and quarterback Matthew Stafford agreed to a restructured contract, effectively ending trade rumors. This move provides stability for the Rams, who are coming off a playoff appearance (10-6 record). Stafford, approaching his seventh year, is poised to reach the 400-touchdown milestone.

Analysis:

• The restructure likely involved converting a portion of Stafford’s salary into a signing bonus, spreading the cap hit over multiple years.
• This move signals the Rams’ commitment to Stafford as their long-term quarterback.
• The ending of trade talks removes a major question mark for the Rams.

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March 2nd: Deebo Samuel Traded to the Commanders

The San Francisco 49ers traded wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders. The Commanders, with ample cap space, are adding a dynamic playmaker to their offense.

Analysis:

• The Commanders incur a $5.206 million cap hit with this trade.
• With Samuel entering a contract year, this trade represents a calculated risk for the Commanders.
• The Commanders are betting on Samuel returning to his 2021 form.
• This trade frees up cap space for the 49ers.

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March 3rd: Bengals Place Franchise Tag on Tee Higgins

The Cincinnati Bengals placed the franchise tag on wide receiver Tee Higgins for the second consecutive year. This move provides the Bengals with more time to negotiate a long-term extension.

Analysis:

• Higgins will earn $26.2 million under the franchise tag, a 120% increase from his previous salary.
• While a long-term deal is desired by both sides, the franchise tag provides financial security for Higgins and flexibility for the Bengals.
• This move allows the Bengals to keep a key part of their offense intact.

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March 4th: Philadelphia Eagles’ Roster Moves

Darius Slay Jr. Released

The Philadelphia Eagles released veteran cornerback Darius Slay Jr. Although Slay expressed openness to a return, he now enters free agency.

Analysis:

• This move likely frees up significant cap space for the Eagles.
• Slay’s release creates a need for the Eagles to address their cornerback position.

Eagles Sign Saquon Barkley

The Philadelphia Eagles signed running back Saquon Barkley to a multi-year contract, making him one of the highest-paid running backs in the league.

Analysis:

• The contract includes a complex structure of option bonuses, base salaries, and incentives.
• The deal is heavily front-loaded with guaranteed money.
• The incentive package could add up to $1.5 million per year, with escalators based on performance.
• This move signals the Eagles’ commitment to a strong running game.

Vikings’ Decision on Sam Darnold

The Minnesota Vikings did not place the franchise tag on quarterback Sam Darnold.

Analysis:

• This raises questions regarding a long-term deal or whether he will leave the team.
• With J.J. McCarthy also in the quarterback room, the Vikings have a QB competition brewing.

Jets Release Davante Adams

The New York Jets released wide receiver Davante Adams.

Analysis:

• The Jets save $29.9 million in cap space with this move.

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March 5th: Cowboys Re-Sign Osa Odighizuwa

The Dallas Cowboys secured their defensive line by re-signing defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa to a four-year, $80 million contract.

Analysis:

• This significant investment underscores the Cowboys’ commitment to their defensive front.
• The contract structure will be crucial for the Cowboys’ cap management.
• Odighizuwa’s consistent improvement and strong 2024 performance justified the investment.
• His ability to rush the passer and defend the run makes him a valuable asset.

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March 6th-9th: Seattle Seahawks’ Wide Receiver Shakeup

Tyler Lockett Released

The Seahawks released longtime wide receiver Tyler Lockett.

Analysis:

• This move was primarily driven by cap space considerations.
• Lockett’s consistent production made him a valuable asset, but the Seahawks are prioritizing financial flexibility.
• This move signals a rebuild and a major shift in the Seahawks’ offensive identity.

DK Metcalf Traded to the Steelers

The Seahawks traded wide receiver DK Metcalf to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Analysis:

• This trade shows the Seahawks are willing to move on from a star player.
• The Steelers are adding a major weapon to their offense.
• The Seahawks will receive draft compensation, which will help them rebuild.

March 10th: Aaron Rodgers Emerging as QB Option for Steelers

Aaron Rodgers is emerging as a quarterback option for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Analysis:

• This shows the Steelers are looking to improve their quarterback position.
• This move would be a huge step for the Steelers.

March 10th: Broncos Nearing Deal to Retain DJ Jones

The Denver Broncos are nearing a deal to retain defensive tackle DJ Jones.

Analysis:

• This move provides the Broncos with stability on their defensive line.
• This shows the Broncos are trying to keep their defense strong.

March 10th: Falcons Release Grady Jarrett

The Atlanta Falcons released defensive tackle Grady Jarrett.

Analysis:

• This move was likely made to create cap space.
• This move opens up a spot on the Falcons’ defensive line.

March 10th: Buccaneers Re-Sign Chris Godwin

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers re-signed wide receiver Chris Godwin to a three-year deal.

Analysis:

• This move provides the Buccaneers with continuity in their receiving corps.
• This shows the Buccaneers are trying to keep their offense together.

March 10th: Chargers and Khalil Mack Agree to Deal

The Los Angeles Chargers and outside linebacker Khalil Mack agreed to a one-year, $18 million deal.

Analysis:

• This move retains a key pass rusher for the Chargers.
• This move shows the Chargers are trying to keep their defense strong.

March 10th: Chiefs Sign Jaylon Moore

The Kansas City Chiefs signed offensive lineman Jaylon Moore to a two-year, $30 million deal.

Analysis:

• This move improves the Chiefs’ offensive line.
• This move shows the Chiefs are trying to keep their offense strong.

March 10th: Buccaneers Sign Haason Reddick

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed defensive end Haason Reddick.

Analysis:

• This move improves the Buccaneers’ pass rush.
• This move shows the Buccaneers are trying to improve their defense.