Free Agency Grades: Week 1
NFL Free Agency kicked off this week with the “legal tampering” period on Monday and the official start of the league year on Wednesday. Some big contracts have been signed and star players have found new homes. Things are just getting started!
Today, we’ll take a look at how the Garden State NFL teams have fared across the opening days of free agency. Some moves are splashier than others, but they all have an impact in shaping the teams’ NFL Draft boards and their stories for the 2021 season.
New York Giants
Grade: A-
The New York Giants addressed their highest priority free agent with a franchise tag and subsequent contract for defensive tackle Leonard Williams. He was the star of their defensive line last season and the biggest reason for their success. New York also secured their offensive tackle situation with the retention and restructure of Nate Solder’s contract. He will partner with Andrew Thomas to anchor the offensive line. The Giants’ biggest remaining need is a starting possession receiver. As of the writing of this article, they have shown interest in Kenny Golladay, who could be a potential star in that role.
NYG Best Free Agency Move: RETAINING DT LEONARD WILLIAMS
NYG Worst Free Agency Move: LOSING RG KEVIN ZEITLER TO BALTIMORE
New York Jets
Grade: B-
The New York Jets retained the most productive member of their secondary by placing the franchise tag on free safety Marcus Maye. Despite a few bad plays that have been highlighted by some members of the media, Maye was a positive presence in that secondary and came down with some spectacular interceptions last year. The Jets also made a splash with the signing of wide receiver Corey Davis, who is coming off the most productive season of his career. It was also his first season as a team’s WR2. He also fits the same wide receiver mold as last year’s second round selection, Denzel Mims. The redundancy and will limit the productivity of both receivers unless Mims is able to make massive improvements going into his second season.
NYJ Best Free Agency Move: RETAINING FS MARCUS MAYE
NYJ Worst Free Agency Move: SIGNING WR COREY DAVIS
Philadelphia Eagles
Grade: D+
The Philadelphia Eagles faced an uphill battle entering free agency with over $50 million to clear just to get salary cap compliant. Eagles Executive Vice President/General Manager Howie Roseman put the team in a very difficult situation and continued to do so with multiple contract restructures that will continue to limit the team’s options in free agency over at least the next two seasons. While most of these moves are hindering, a diamond in the rough is the return of Jason Kelce for one more season. Kelce is one of the best centers in NFL history and a tremendous leader on the team. His wisdom and leadership will greatly help the transition to the new coaching staff in Philadelphia.
