The reigning NFL champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, are facing significant changes in their defense with two of their key players moving to new teams. Defensive tackle Milton Williams has inked a deal with New England valued at $26 million per year, while edge rusher Josh Sweat has signed a four-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals, totaling $76.4 million, according to sources familiar with the negotiations.
Williams and Sweat had substantial roles in the Eagles’ decisive 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl, combining for 4.5 sacks, four quarterback hits, four tackles for loss, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery.
As the NFL’s 52-hour legal tampering period commenced, a flurry of lucrative contracts emerged. Highlighting these was the league MVP, Josh Allen’s record-breaking $330 million contract extension, and Myles Garrett setting a monumental benchmark, becoming the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.
Significant movements in the quarterback roster have been stirring, as the Seattle Seahawks signed Sam Darnold to a three-year, $100.5 million deal after his comeback season in Minnesota. Concurrently, Justin Fields joined the New York Jets on a $40 million, two-year contract, stepping in for Aaron Rodgers.
These agreements come via sources familiar with the closed-door discussions, as teams typically refrain from disclosing contract specifics before official signing, expected to take place on Wednesday.
In other major transactions, the Carolina Panthers secured Jaycee Horn with a groundbreaking $100 million deal over four years, $70 million of which is guaranteed. The Panthers further strengthened their roster, agreeing on a $51 million, three-year contract with Tre’von Moehrig.
Alongside Williams, the Patriots welcomed several new faces, including linebacker Robert Spillane, cornerback Carlton Davis, and offensive tackle Morgan Moses.
Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders made headlines by finalizing agreements with Javon Kinlaw on a three-year, $45 million deal and acquiring offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil through a trade with the Houston Texans.
In a remarkable contract, Allen’s agreement includes a $250 million guarantee, setting a precedent across all positions in the NFL. Back in Cleveland, Garrett remains with the Browns on a four-year extension, ensuring his status as the highest-paid non-quarterback, with an eye-popping $122.8 million in guarantees and an average annual salary hitting $40 million.
The quarterback scene keeps evolving as Darnold leaves behind a 14-3 record in Minnesota after his late-season slump influenced the Vikings to let him pursue opportunities elsewhere. Their confidence now rests on J.J. McCarthy, drafted 10th overall last year.
In other quarterback news, Russell Wilson and Aaron Rodgers stand out. Although Rodgers is not a free agent, the Jets plan to release him shortly after an anticlimactic tenure. A brief run marred by a torn Achilles saw Rodgers’ 2023 season cut short. With ambitions for a return, Rodgers, like Wilson, hopes to revive their careers. Since joining Denver, Wilson has not met expectations, recording a 17-25 record after his Seattle departure.
Seattle’s acquisition of Darnold follows a transaction sending Geno Smith to the Raiders for a third-round pick. The Seahawks appear to be reshaping their offensive lineup, evidenced by trades involving D.K. Metcalf and Tyler Lockett.
Backups are also securing their spots, with Jarrett Stidham agreeing to a two-year, $12 million deal to remain at Denver, and Jimmy Garoppolo staying with the Rams.
Haason Reddick, a two-time Pro Bowler, finds a new home with Tampa Bay, signing for $14 million in 2025, with $12 million assured. Notably, Reddick’s impressive career saw him bounce across several teams, making the Buccaneers his fifth in nine years.
Elsewhere, Chris Godwin returns to the Buccaneers after a significant injury, committing to a $66 million, three-year contract. The Broncos, focused on enriching their defense, retained D.J. Jones and added safety Talanoa Hufanga.
The Seahawks re-signed tackle Jarran Reed, maintaining a valuable asset alongside his nine-season sack record. Green Bay seized a chance to enhance their defense, bringing in cornerback Nate Hobbs with a $48 million agreement.
Jacksonville was active with several strategic signings, including securing Tampa Bay center Robert Hainsey, alongside wide receiver Dyami Brown. The Jaguars also brought in cornerback Jourdan Lewis and tight end Luke Farrell, strengthening multiple positions. The Chargers, meanwhile, reinforced their squad by renewing contracts with center Bradley Bozeman and punter J.K. Scott.
