The Philadelphia Eagles are reshuffling their top-ranked defense, marking significant changes just a month after thwarting Patrick Mahomes’ quest to drive the Kansas City Chiefs to a third Super Bowl victory in consecutive seasons. Benefiting from roster amendments typical this time of year, the Eagles will exchange safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson for Texans guard Kenyon Green, alongside swapping some later draft picks.
Despite only being drafted in 2022, Green managed 23 starts for Houston, although a shoulder injury sidelined him throughout 2023. Meanwhile, in preparation for the upcoming season, the Texans are offloading several players, including left tackle Laremy Tunsil to Washington, signaling a recalibration of their offensive line which previously struggled to shield quarterback C.J. Stroud.
Moreover, as the free agency period kicks off, defensive options Milton Williams and Josh Sweat decided to part with Philadelphia. Williams has secured a $26 million annual contract with New England, while Sweat enters a lucrative four-year, $76.4 million deal with the Arizona Cardinals. These developments align with widespread speculation shrouded in secrecy typical of league business, with sources preferring anonymity until contracts are formally sanctioned.
Looking to enhance their ranks, the Buffalo Bills brought in experienced pass rusher Joey Bosa for $12.6 million over a year, filling the void left by Von Miller. In a similar vein, the Minnesota Vikings bolster their defensive and offensive lines, signing three significant contracts including defensive tackle Jonathan Allen and guard Will Fries. These acquisitions suggest a strategic focus on strengthening their interior lines as they anticipate quarterback J.J. McCarthy’s full return.
The Vikings’ reinvigoration with center Ryan Kelly could spell the end of Garrett Bradbury’s tenure. This decision follows a disappointing wild-card game against the Rams, underscoring their need for resilient interior protection. Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers introduce fiscal prudence amidst an infusion of new, younger talent following a 6-11 season. Left high and dry, edge rusher Leonard Floyd, who was cut, found a quick agreement with the Atlanta Falcons.
Seattle Seahawks have locked in linebacker Ernest Jones IV for a three-year tenure at $28.5 million. Jones played a pivotal role in Seattle’s defensive improvements this past season under new coach Mike Macdonald. Simultaneously, the New Orleans Saints bring back Louisiana-native cornerback Justin Reid, and concur on terms with tight end Juwan Johnson for a substantial contract.
Among other teams making moves, the Ravens have enlisted veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins from the Chiefs. In Indianapolis, the Colts will see Daniel Jones competing for starting quarterback against Anthony Richardson, hoping to regain his positioning as a starting QB after a transient stint as a backup for the Vikings.
More contracts surfaced, including the Commanders signing safety Will Harris, while the 49ers add ex-Atlanta safety Richie Grant. In building depth, Dallas Cowboys ensured the retention of defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa while reinforcing their defense with Solomon Thomas. The Dolphins and Falcons added offensive talents in Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and Divine Deablo, respectively. Meanwhile, the Chiefs make a strategic defensive bolster by signing cornerback Kristian Fulton.
Carolina parted ways with running back Miles Sanders, choosing a fresh leg in punter Sam Martin. As for special teams, the Denver Broncos secured long snapper Mitchell Fraboni on a multi-year agreement.
