Week three in free agency and the veterans are starting to make their rounds around the league. Some have already found homes, including the likes of Jared Allen and Shaun Phillips. As the draft inches closer the other veterans need to get a move on or they will be settling for teams that fail to take advantage of the draft.
Cardinals sign CB Antonio Cromartie (1 year, $3.25 million):
The Cardinals used the “prove it” deal to fix one of the major holes in their roster. Cromartie still have plenty in the tank and will excel playing across from Patrick Peterson in the Cardinal secondary. Considering the Giants gave Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie a monster deal, this deal is miles better.
Grade: A-
Bears sign DE Jared Allen (4 years, $32M; $15.5M guaranteed):
Allen is getting up there in age, but the Bears did get an upgrade from Julius Peppers. The Bears line has quickly became one of the strongest groups on the team and one of the better lines in the league. The money is about right, but is a stele considering what the Vikings game Everson Griffen
Grade: B+
Titans sign DE/OLB Shaun Phillips (2 years, $6M; $2.5M guaranteed):
The Titans remain committed to the 3-4 personal and get a great fit in Phillips. Phillips had 10 sacks last season and was out of his natural position of OLB. the Titans will plug him back into that spot, but he is getting old quick. the Titans hope to get the 2013 model.
Grade: B+
Dolphins sign RB Knowshon Moreno (1 year, $3 million):
Moreno is a stop gate until the Dolphins draft someone who isn't terrible. Moreno gets a solid deal, but the Dolphins win here. They didn't give up a pick to get Chris Johnson and they got a serviceable player coming off a hot 2013 for half the price. Lets see if Moreno can hold up.
Grade: B
Steelers sign RB LeGarrette Blount (2 years, $3.85M; $950K guaranteed):
I can't think of a better fit for a player and a team. Blount is the hard nosed power back the Steelers dream about. Blount will fight for time with Le'veon Bell, who emerged as a legitimate NFL running back. Bell is still the starter and the future in Pittsburgh, but Blount will help limit the hits Bell takes on a regular basis. Great deal for both sides.
Grade: B+
Other Moves:
Steelers sign WR Lance Moore (2 years, $3 million)
Texans sign S Chris Clemons (2 years, $2.7M; $450K guaranteed)
Patriots extend NT Vince Wilfork (3 years, $22.5M; $3M guaranteed)
Falcons sign KR Devin Hester (3 years, $9M; $3.5M guaranteed)
What do you think of the recent signings? Who is the top free agent still out there? Tell us @SportsWN
© 2023 Sportsworldnews.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
