The NFL free agency window opened this week, and there have already been a lot of surprising moves. I can’t cover every move that has happened so far, but here are some of the key ones to note.
Packers release RB Aaron Jones
This move came as quite a shock to many football fans. Aaron Jones has played a vital role in Green Bay’s offense since he was drafted in 2017, and he was exactly the type of veteran leadership this young locker room needed. In the 2023 season, Jones rushed for 656 yards and two touchdowns, and during the postseason he put up a combined 226 yards and three touchdowns against the Cowboys and 49ers. I think this move was absolutely terrible. Although the Packers recently signed a good replacement in Las Vegas’ Josh Jacobs this week, I think they should have kept Jones for his leadership and knowledge of the offense. There was great chemistry on Green Bay’s offense this year, so next year it will be tough to replace what they had going this year. Jones quickly signed a one-year deal with the Vikings shortly after his release, so it’ll be interesting to see what he’ll do next season and beyond.
Buccaneers re-sign QB Baker Mayfield
I’m a big fan of this move. In my opinion, I think Baker should’ve gotten the Comeback Player of the Year award this year (sorry Joe) solely because of the Buccaneers’ projections when he signed with them. When Mayfield signed with the Bucs, he was recently released by the Los Angeles Rams. He signed on a one-year “prove-it” type deal, where if he played well and led the team to the playoffs he *might* have a shot at resigning on a bigger contract. Well, he did exactly that. Mayfield led the Buccaneers to a 9-8 record (first in the NFC South), where they played the Detroit Lions in the NFC Wild Card round. The Buccaneers ended up losing 23-31, but Baker certainly proved he still has what it takes to be a starting quarterback in the league. His contract is worth up to $115 million over three years, and he’s worth every penny.
Eagles sign RB Saquon Barkley
One of many instances of a player going to their divisional rivals, Barkley’s contract is worth up to $37.5 million over three years. He fills a hole in Philly’s offense following RB D’Andre Swift’s signing with the Bears, and I think he’ll fit in just fine with Sirianni. Last season, Barkley battled with multiple injuries with the Giants, but he still managed to finish the season with 962 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns. With his departure, New York’s offense has practically fallen off a cliff, even with signings like RB Devin Singletary and QB Drew Lock. New York will have to look to the draft to improve their situation, but I think it’s very expected that the Giants faithful will once again be disappointed by poor management and coaching. As someone who had this star on my fantasy team this year, I wish him the best on his new squad.
