Free Agency at a Glance

Wrapping Up Some of the Biggest Signings

Photo+Provided+by+Mike+Morbeck

Eddie Lacy

On March 9th, the new NFL season officially began. And with that, came the start of the 2017 free agency season. This year featured a number of pretty wild trades and signings, with little more to come in the upcoming weeks.

The real kick off to free agency in 2017 was the Brock Osweiler trade. Houston unloaded Osweiler (and his contract more importantly), giving Cleveland a 2nd round draft pick and an exchange of late round draft picks. This trade was not only a blockbuster, but it brought a “money ball” strategy to the NFL for the first time. The Cleveland Browns, who had the most cap space in the league at the time, essentially absorbed part of Osweiler’s contract for a draft pick. Whether or not he plays a down for the Browns is yet to be seen, but regardless this trade could set a huge precedent going forward.

Amidst rumors, star Saints receiver Brandin Cooks was traded to New England in exchange for the Patriots’ first round pick. Cooks reportedly wanted out of New Orleans, and Belichick and crew were happy to add him to an already lethal Patriots offense. Another stellar receiver, Brandon Marshall signed a two year deal, teaming up with Eli Manning and Odell Beckham Jr. to create a potentially deadly receiving corp. for the Giants next season. Marshall’s release from the Jets was a bit of a surprise, and even more so when it was revealed he would be staying in New York (albeit with a different team).

In terms of running backs, former Raiders running back Latavius Murray left the sunny bay area for chilly Minnesota, replacing Adrian Peterson. Eddie Lacy also left Green Bay to join the Seahawks, although Green Bay did make a rare splash free agency signing in picking up Martellus Bennett.

Dozens more signings and trades occurred, and a few more will occur throughout the upcoming weeks. This is just a taste of what free agency offers.