Russell Wilson to Denver; Carson Wentz to Washington; Amari Cooper to Cleveland.
Chandler Jones to Las Vegas; Khalil Mack to the LA Chargers; J.C. Jackson and Brandon Scherff, to Jacksonville.
It doesn’t matter if it’s outdated news. This is some new news: Von Miller, the Super Bowl linebacker champion, will be leaving Los Angeles to go to Buffalo.
Julio Jones, a star receiver, is seeking work.
Teams could be open about the recent leaks that made these moves, and many others, common knowledge in the NFL on Wednesday.
The 2022 business year is officially underway.
Miller’s national move was Wednesday’s headline grab. Miller will be signing a six-year contract with the Bills. He will also pursue a third NFL championship with a third team. He won a ring in Denver in 2015, and a ring last season with the Rams.
Wideout Julio Jones from Tennessee was Wednesday’s biggest star. He was only able to play one season with the Titans due to injuries. Jones, 33 years old, will be released by the Titans after June 1, with the cap set until then.
Jones was traded to the Titans in June, but he only started 11 games (not counting the playoffs). Jones had a career-low 31 receptions for 434 yards and one touchdown.
Wilson’s move from the Seahawks into the Broncos is the most significant blockbuster, at least until Houston finds a quarterback Deshaun Watson team. Seattle will get, wait for it, two first-round draft selections, two second rounders, and three players: quarterback Drew Lock and tight end Noah Fant. Although all could be starters for the Seahawks, they would prefer a different No. 1 QB.
John Schneider, Seattle general manager, stated that Russell has been a great player, leader, as well as a member of the organization since 2012, when he was drafted in the third round. His tireless work ethic and dedication has made him one of the most successful quarterbacks in NFL history. We are grateful for all his contributions on and off the field.
We used the opportunity to explore the market after it became clear that Russell was interested to play elsewhere. This allowed us to acquire three high-quality players, great draft capital and created salary cap flexibility. This is a very exciting time for our company. We have a clear idea about the direction of the team.
Denver was able to fill its needs behind center. Tampa Bay also had Tom Brady end his 40-day retirement. Aaron Rodgers, who remained in Green Bay with a three year megadeal, continued to be there. However, many other teams are still trying desperately for their quarterback. Some of these teams, including New Orleans, Carolina and Cleveland, are in talks with Watson. Watson will not face criminal charges after 22 women accused him for sexual assault and harassment. Watson was not able to attend last season’s game and is still facing civil lawsuits and possibly an NFL suspension.
Pittsburgh, which hasn’t had a quarterback opening since Ben Roethlisberger’s 2004 draft, signed Mitchell Trubisky from Buffalo to compete for the spot.
After Frank Reich, Colts coach, brought Wentz aboard last year, Wentz seemed to have outgrown Indianapolis. He has another chance to prove his winning credentials with the Commanders. This is in the same division that his first professional team, the Eagles. It should be a thrilling match between these two teams.
Cleveland might throw Baker Mayfield to Cooper depending on where Watson lands. Jarvis Landry is another veteran receiver. Cooper has been a “consistent playmaker” in the league, according to Coach Kevin Stefanski. Cooper is a superb route-runner. His skills fit perfectly with our offensive goals. He is also a team player to his core. He is a true team player.”
A conference champion is one team that has quickly fixed its biggest weakness. In their search for pass protectors to keep Joe Burrow safe and sound, the Bengals added Tampa Bay guard Alex Cappa to their roster, along with Ted Karras from New England.
The team at the opposite end of the AFC spectrum was Jacksonville, which has been the busiest.
The Jaguars had lots of money and spent it. To help Trevor Lawrence, the second-year quarterback, they brought in two receivers in Christian Kirk from Arizona and Zay Jones in Las Vegas. Their best blocker is an ex-All-Pro Scherff, who has not yet suited up for the team. Foy Oluokun of Atlanta, a formidable tackler, cornerback Darious Williams from the Super Bowl champion Rams, and Foley Fatukasi were all part of the defense’s support.
Trent Baalke, general manager of Jags, stated that the Jags organization should not depend on free agency. “We rely on our drafts, and give second contracts to these guys.”
Don’t forget that they will have the top pick next month in the draft.
