The NFL's new year kicked off with a bang, marking the official start of free agency. While many of the blockbuster deals were hashed out during the legal tampering period, some significant moves still managed to shake things up. Let's dive into the day's biggest winners and losers.
Winner: DE Trey Hendrickson
Trey Hendrickson's patience proved fruitful. Holding firm on his demands during the initial days of the legal tampering period, the pass-rusher secured a hefty four-year, $112 million deal with the Baltimore Ravens, potentially reaching $120 million. This move came after the Ravens backed out of a trade for Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders.
Hendrickson's contract surpasses that of Denver Broncos LB Nik Bonitto, who inked a four-year, $106 million deal as a 2025 Defensive Player of the Year finalist. With this investment, Baltimore will expect Hendrickson to deliver top-tier performances.
In 2024, he dazzled as a first-team All-Pro with 17.5 sacks, but injuries hampered his output last season. A return to form could make him a game-changer for the Ravens.
Loser: Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles found themselves on the losing end of the Hendrickson sweepstakes. With Hendrickson opting for Baltimore, Philadelphia must now pivot to find another edge-rusher. Already stung by the loss of Jaelan Phillips to the Carolina Panthers, the Eagles are feeling the heat.
Phillips was a key contributor, tying for third in pressures on the team last season. The Eagles are reportedly eyeing Minnesota Vikings linebacker Jonathan Greenard, but it's uncertain if he would be a sufficient upgrade. With Greenard credited with 24 pressures in 12 games last season, Philly has some decisions to make.
Winner: Safety Kevin Byard
Kevin Byard's standout season with the Chicago Bears, where he led the league with seven interceptions, has earned him a lucrative payday. The New England Patriots have signed Byard to a one-year, $9 million deal, reuniting him with head coach Mike Vrabel.
Byard's move to New England keeps him in the hunt for a Super Bowl ring, as the Patriots remain a formidable contender after their recent Super Bowl appearance. Adding a three-time first-team All-Pro like Byard only strengthens their roster.
Loser: Chicago Bears Secondary
The Bears' secondary took a hit with the departures of Byard and cornerback Nahshon Wright, who signed with the New York Jets. Wright's five interceptions last season were second in the league, making his absence significant.
Chicago has brought in defensive back Coby Bryant on a three-year, $40 million deal, but the team might still look to the draft to bolster their secondary. With the draft approaching, the Bears could target a promising prospect like USC's Kamari Ramsey to fill the gaps.
Winner: QB Daniel Jones
Despite a late-season Achilles injury, Daniel Jones secured a lucrative two-year, $88 million deal with the potential to reach $100 million. Jones expressed optimism about a Week 1 return, aiming to make an impact for the Colts.
If he can stay healthy, Jones could be a pivotal player in the Colts' playoff aspirations. His performance last season, highlighted by a career-high 63 QBR, suggests he has the potential to lead the team to success.
Loser: Veteran QBs
Veteran quarterbacks like Russell Wilson, Carson Wentz, and Jimmy Garoppolo find themselves in limbo. With the Arizona Cardinals releasing Kyler Murray, teams in need of a quarterback are likely to prioritize him over the veteran trio.
Wilson and Wentz struggled with losing records last season, while Garoppolo saw limited action. As teams weigh their options, these seasoned QBs might have to wait for the right opportunity to return to the field.