Former All-Pro punt returner Gunner Olszewski is the latest former Patriots player to be on the move in free agency. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported Friday afternoon that the Steelers are signing the 25-year-old wide receiver to a two-year, $4.2 million contract.
As an restricted free agent, the Patriots had a chance to retain Olszewski earlier this offseason. However, they elected not to apply a tender to him, which would have cost them $2.4 million in 2022. He became an unrestricted free agent when the new league year began on Wednesday.
Olszewski joined the Patriots in 2018 as a UDFA and converted cornerback out of Division-II Bemidji State. After missing most of his rookie season due to injury, he set a franchise record of 17.3 yards per punt return in 2020 in his All-Pro season. He contributed mainly on special teams last year, playing just six percent of the Patriots’ offensive snaps.
The Patriots have now lost two key members of last year’s special teams unit in Olszewski and Brandon Bolden, who signed with the Raiders earlier this week. A third, Brandon King, remains a free agent. They’ve retained gunner Matthew Slater and kicker Nick Folk.
NFL Free Agent Tracker: Friday, March 18
Olszewski to the Steel City
Dec 6, 2020; Inglewood, California, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Gunner Olszewski (80) returns a punt return for a touchdown Los Angeles Chargers during the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
According to Ian Rapoport, the Pittsburgh Steelers are signing Gunner Olszewski to a two-year, $4.2 million contract. Olszewski spent the last three years with the Patriots and was an All-Pro punt returner in 2020.
JuJu Smith-Schuster headed to Chiefs
Wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster #19 of the Pittsburgh Steelers runs with the ball against the Las Vegas Raiders in the first half of the game at Heinz Field on September 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
Another receiver off the board for the Patriots: former Steelers wideout JuJu Smith-Schuster is signing a one-year, $10.75 million deal with the Chiefs, according to Ian Rapoport. Another dynamic weapon for Patrick Mahomes, who still has Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce in his arsenal.
Deshaun Watson headed to Browns
Deshaun Watson #4 of the Houston Texans in action against the Tennessee Titans during a game at NRG Stadium on January 03, 2021 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
Just when you thought Davante Adams would be the biggest trade-and-sign move of the week, Deshaun Watson and the Browns just dropped a whopper on Friday. Watson is headed to the Browns for three first-round picks and more, according to Ian Rapoport. The quarterback is also signing a five-year deal worth $230 million, fully guaranteed. That shatters the previous record for guaranteed money by $80 million.
No progress between Patriots and Jamie Collins
Jamie Collins #58 of the New England Patriots celebrates after causing Colt McCoy #12 of the Washington Redskins a to fumble the ball during the second half at FedExField on October 6, 2019 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
According to Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald, there’s been no progress on contract talks between the Patriots and linebacker Jamie Collins. It’s the latest signal that the Pats are aggressively getting younger at the linebacker position. They recently released Kyle Van Noy, while Dont’a Hightower remains a free agent as they’ve re-signed several other internal pieces.
Patriots re-signing Bentley
Ja’Whaun Bentley #8 of the New England Patriots celebrates after tackling Ezekiel Elliott #21 of the Dallas Cowboys in the second quarter at Gillette Stadium on October 17, 2021 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
According to Mike Reiss, the Patriots are “closing in” on a new contract with linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley. The 25-year-old is coming off a career year in his third NFL season, leading the Pats with 109 total tackles and forcing three fumbles.
The Patriots certainly value Bentley’s experience in the system compared to the rest of their linebacker depth chart, as the team moves toward a youth movement at the position. He’s one of the veterans of the group on a depth chart that includes Matthew Judon, Josh Uche, Raekwon McMillan, Anfernee Jennings, Ronnie Perkins, Cameron McGrone, and Jahlani Tavai.
Logan Ryan reuniting with Tom Brady
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) greets Tennessee Titans cornerback Logan Ryan (26) before the start of the preseason game at Nissan Stadium Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019 in Nashville, Tenn.
Tom Brady is getting yet another former teammate back in Tampa Bay. Veteran defensive back Logan Ryan confirmed himself via Twitter on Friday that he’s signing with the Buccaneers, bolstering their secondary depth and reuniting himself with his former Patriots teammate. Ryan and Brady last played together on the Patriots in 2016. He’s been durable throughout his career, with 140 of a possible 145 games played, and has made at least eight pass breakups in every season since 2015.
Davante Adams gets historic contract
Davante Adams #17 of the Green Bay Packers makes a catch for a touchdown while being guarded by M.J. Stewart Jr. #36 of the Cleveland Browns in the second quarter at Lambeau Field on December 25, 2021 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
The Raiders made what could go down as the biggest off-season splash of 2022 when they acquired wide receiver Davante Adams from the Packers, then signed him to a five-year deal worth up to $142.5 million. ESPN’s Field Yates noted that the deal is the largest ever for a non-quarterback in terms of average annual value ($28.5 million) and total value. According to Adam Schefter, the contract includes $67.5 million guaranteed.
Raiders making push for Gilmore?
Stephon Gilmore #24 of the New England Patriots looks on prior to the game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on December 20, 2020 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images)
The Raiders – led by a pair of former Patriots in head coach Josh McDaniels and GM Dave Ziegler – may still not be done adding to their roster. And they’re looking at a familiar face: according to Vincent Bonsignore at the Las Vegas Review-Journal, Las Vegas is “making a run” at cornerback Stephon Gilmore in free agency. So it sounds like Gilmore could get himself another nice contract, if multiple teams are competing for his services.
NFL Free Agent Tracker: Thursday, March 17
Fletcher Cox released
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – DECEMBER 26: Fletcher Cox #91 of the Philadelphia Eagles celebrates against the New York Giants at Lincoln Financial Field on December 26, 2021 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
Another star player is hitting the open market. The Eagles are releasing Fletcher Cox, according to Mike Garafolo. Cox was a four-time All-Pro in 10 seasons in Philly. The Eagles have three draft picks in the top 20, could they now be a landing spot for star Georgia DT Jordan Davis?
Giants release Logan Ryan
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – OCTOBER 24: Logan Ryan #23 of the New York Giants celebrates a safety during the first half in the game against the Carolina Panthers at MetLife Stadium on October 24, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
The New York Giants are parting ways with defensive back Logan Ryan, according to a tweet from Ryan himself. The 31-year-old was drafted by the Patriots in 2013 and played four seasons in New England. He was with Joe Judge in New York in 2020 as well. Given the Patriots’ needs in the secondary, he could be a candidate to return.
Za’Darius Smith changes his mind
Za’Darius Smith #55 of the Green Bay Packers reacts in the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Rams during the NFC Divisional Playoff game at Lambeau Field on January 16, 2021 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
Za’Darius Smith has become the latest free agent to change course after “agreeing” to a deal. According to Ian Rapoport, Smith is NOT signing with the Ravens. No new team yet, though. Smith is back on the open market.
Patriots signing RB Ty Montgomery
Running back Ty Montgomery #88 of the New Orleans Saints attempts to break a tackle from linebacker Shaq Thompson #54 of the Carolina Panthers during the second half of their game at Bank of America Stadium on January 03, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)
The Patriots are adding a pass-catching running back to their free-agent class. According to Josina Anderson, they’ve agreed to a two-year deal worth up to $4 million with RB Ty Montgomery.
Montgomery, 29 entered the league as a wide receiver, the position he played at Stanford, but by year two was getting more carries than targets. He hasn’t approached his career-high 121 touches in 2016 since that season, and had only 31 total touches in 14 games with the Saints in 2021.
However, Montgomery also has experience as a kick returner. He has 57 career kick returns with an average of 22.4 yards per return. The Patriots will be his fifth team, after the Packers, Jets, Ravens, and Saints.
Montgomery could be the Patriots’ primary choice on kick returns and provide insurance for the recently re-signed James White. Bill Belichick certainly must love his versatility.
Cowboys release La’El Collins
La’el Collins #71 of the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on October 06, 2019 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
The Dallas Cowboys could not find a trade partner for tackle La’El Collins, and will release him on Thursday, making him a free agent. Todd Archer reported it first on Twitter. New England was rumored to be exploring a possible trade for Collins, but according to Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald, there’s “zero” chance they will sign him off the open market.
Bills release Cole Beasley
BUFFALO, NEW YORK – JANUARY 15: Cole Beasley #11 of the Buffalo Bills runs the ball against Dont’a Hightower #54 of the New England Patriots during the third quarter in the AFC Wild Card playoff game at Highmark Stadium on January 15, 2022 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images)
You’d think the Von Miller signing would lead to some casualties on the Buffalo Bills’ roster. One of them is receiver Cole Beasley, who was released Thursday, according to Mike Garafolo. Beasley certainly seems like a fit for the Patriots as a traditional slot receiver.
Patriots interested in CB Justin Coleman
Justin Coleman #27 of the Miami Dolphins celebrates after recovering a blocked punt and scoring a touchdown during the first quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Hard Rock Stadium on November 28, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images)
The Patriots aren’t done looking at cornerbacks after the signing of Terrance Mitchell. According to Mark Daniels, they’re also showing interest in a former Patriot, cornerback Justin Coleman. This move would certainly make sense, since the Patriots could use a little familiarity along with veteran depth. Coleman played for the Patriots from 2015-16, and also with Matt Patricia in Detroit from 2019-20.
Patriots looking at positions of need
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – DECEMBER 18: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots looks on during pregame warm-ups prior to the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 18, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
According to Doug Kyed of Pro Football Focus, the Patriots are still looking at free agents at positions of need, and ones easy to predict: wide receivers, cornerbacks, and tackles. They’ve already signed journeyman CB Terrance Mitchell to a one-year deal, but Kyed reports that “their work isn’t done adding veteran players.”
At tackle, they’ve already been reported to be exploring a trade for the Cowboys’ La’El Collins. They’ve also been linked to Allen Robinson at receiver.
Dolphins sign former Niners receiver
Trent Sherfield #81 of the San Francisco 49ers warms up prior to a game against the Green Bay Packers at Levi’s Stadium on September 26, 2021 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel and receivers coach Wes Welker are reuniting with a familiar face: former 49ers wideout Trent Sherfield is headed to Miami on a one-year deal, as reported by Tom Pelissero.
Texans re-sign RB Royce Freeman
Oct 18, 2020; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Denver Broncos running back Royce Freeman (right) runs against New England Patriots cornerback Jason McCourty (30) during the first quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
According to Ian Rapoport, the Houston Texans are retaining running back Royce Freeman on a one-year deal. Freeman played seven games for the Texans in 2021 after being claimed off waivers.
NFL Free Agent Tracker: Wednesday, March 16
Godwin gets big new deal with Bucs
TAMPA, FLORIDA – SEPTEMBER 09: Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers carries the ball during the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at Raymond James Stadium on September 09, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
Chris Godwin has become the latest receiver to break $20 million annually. He and the Bucs have agreed to rip up his franchise tag in favor of a three-year, $60 million deal with $40 million guaranteed, according to Adam Schefter.
Von Miller gets megadeal from Bills
Von Miller #40 of the Los Angeles Rams looks on during the first half against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium on November 15, 2021 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
The off-season news just got rough for the Patriots, and the Dolphins and Jets and the rest of the AFC for that matter. Future Hall-of-Fame edge rusher Von Miller is signing with the Bills for a whopping six years and $120 million, according to Ian Rapoport.
Buffalo adds a still-excellent edge rusher and former Super Bowl MVP to an already-stacked offense with superstar quarterback Josh Allen. They’ll be among the top Super Bowl contenders for 2022.
The Bills are also signing former Bucs tight end O.J. Howard, per Adam Schefter. Big day in Orchard Park.
Raiders sign former Patriots fullback
Nov 28, 2021; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots fullback Jakob Johnson (47) during warm ups prior to a game against the Tennessee Titans at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
The Raiders under Josh McDaniels and Dave Ziegler are the ultimate “Patriots West,” and their latest move is proof. They’re signing fullback Jakob Johnson, according to Adam Schefter.
It’ll be interesting to see what direction the Patriots take at the fullback position, ie. whether they even have one. The Pats declined to tender Johnson, which made him an unrestricted free agent, in a sign that they were moving on from him.
Trent Brown visiting Seahawks
Aug 19, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; New England Patriots offensive tackle Trent Brown (77) against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Free-agent tackle Trent Brown is visiting the Seahawks, according to Adam Schefter. Brown played the 2021 season with the Patriots after coming over in a trade from the Raiders, and has often spoke highly of the organization publicly.
For that reason, it’s possible that Brown will test the market then give the Patriots a chance to match the best offer. So Brown isn’t on his way out of New England just yet.
Za’Darius Smith signs with Ravens
Za’Darius Smith #55 of the Green Bay Packers reacts in the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Rams during the NFC Divisional Playoff game at Lambeau Field on January 16, 2021 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
Baltimore has landed a big-time pass-rusher. They’re signing former Packers edge rusher Za’Darius Smith to a four-year, $35 million deal with the potential to be worth $50 million, as reported by Adam Schefter.
Patriots showing interest in WR Dede Westbrook
Dede Westbrook of the Jacksonville Jaguars runs for a 61-yard touchdown reception during the second half against the New England Patriots at TIAA Bank Field. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
According to Mark Daniels of the Providence Journal, the Patriots are showing interest in returner/receiver Dede Westbrook, formerly of the Jaguars and Vikings.
Westbrook played 15 games for the Vikings in 2021 and made only 10 catches on 15 targets on offense. However, he did have 22 punt returns for an average of 8.3 yards. The Pats may need a new punt returner after declining to tender restricted free agent Gunner Olszewski.
Titans release Julio Jones
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – SEPTEMBER 26: Julio Jones #2 of the Tennessee Titans against the Indianapolis Colts at Nissan Stadium on September 26, 2021 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
The Tennessee Titans are releasing five-time All Pro receiver Julio Jones, according to multiple reports. Jones spent just one season in Tennessee, after being acquired for second and fourth round picks last June.
Brandon Bolden joining Josh McDaniels
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – NOVEMBER 14: Brandon Bolden #25 of the New England Patriots is tackled by Denzel Ward #21 of the Cleveland Browns during the third quarter at Gillette Stadium on November 14, 2021 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Brandon Bolden is reuniting with former offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels in Las Vegas, according to Ian Rapoport. Bolden played a significant role for the Patriots as the third-down back last year with James White out.
Patriots not tendering Gunner Olszewski
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – NOVEMBER 07: Gunner Olszewski #80 of the New England Patriots returns a kickoff during the second quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on November 07, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
The Patriots will not tender RFA Gunner Olszewski, according to Mike Reiss. The minimum tender would have cost the Patriots $2.4 million. While this doesn’t rule out Olszewski, who was an All Pro punt returner in 2020, returning to the Patriots, it does mean he’ll become an unrestricted free agent at 4 p.m. when the new league year begins.
Chandler Jones headed to Vegas
Chandler Jones #55 of the Arizona Cardinals reacts against the Tennessee Titans during the first half at Nissan Stadium on September 12, 2021 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
Standout former Patriots and Cardinals pass-rusher Chandler Jones is “finalizing” a deal with the Las Vegas Raiders, according to Tom Pelissero.
McKissic Bails on Bills
J.D. McKissic #41 of the Washington Football Team carries the ball for a touchdown in the second quarter against the Seattle Seahawks at FedExField on November 29, 2021 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Todd Olszewski/Getty Images)
Free-agent running back J.D. McKissic agreed to a deal with the Bills – and then he didn’t. According to Adam Schefter, McKissic changed his mind when he heard the Commanders were willing to match the Bills’ offer, and decided to stay in Washington. McKissic pulls the same move that Randy Gregory just did, only the opposite – he spurned a new team in favor of his current one.
Raiders release Nassib
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 15: Carl Nassib #94 of the Las Vegas Raiders flexes while smiling during warmups before a game against the Denver Broncos at Allegiant Stadium on November 15, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
The Las Vegas Raiders are releasing defensive end Carl Nassib, according to Adam Schefter.
Patriots favorites to land La’El Collins
Trevon Diggs #7 of the Dallas Cowboys and La’el Collins #71 of the Dallas Cowboys react seconds after the San Francisco 49ers beat the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC Wild Card Playoff game at AT&T Stadium on January 16, 2022 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
According to Patrik Walker of CBS Sports, the Patriots are “emerging as a strong candidate” to trade for Cowboys tackle La’El Collins. This corroborates a previous report by Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald that the Patriots were exploring a possible deal with Dallas for Collins.
Patriots sign a cornerback
A.J. Dillon #28 of the Green Bay Packers runs with the football in the first half of a preseason game against Terrance Mitchell #39 of the Houston Texans at Lambeau Field on August 14, 2021 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images)
The Patriots have signed a player from outside the organization: according to Adam Schefter, they’ve agreed to a one-year deal for $3 million with cornerback Terrance Mitchell. The 29-year-old Mitchell started 13 games for Houston in 2021 and made one interception.
Jakeem Grant to Cleveland
Nov 21, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Jakeem Grant (17) runs with the ball during the first quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
One of the better hybrid receivers/returners available is off the market. Former Dolphins and Bears receiver Jakeem Grant is headed to the Browns on a three-year deal worth up to $13.8 million, per Tom Pelissero.
Marcus Maye heads to NFC
Oct 24, 2021; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New York Jets free safety Marcus Maye (20) tackles New England Patriots running back Damien Harris (37) during the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports
According to Jeff Howe, the New Orleans Saints are signing former Jets safety Marcus Maye to a three-year deal worth $28.5 million, including $15 million guaranteed. This comes on the heels of Marcus Williams leaving the Saints to join the Ravens.
Patriots looking into big trade for a tackle?
La’el Collins #71 of the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on October 06, 2019 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
This is interesting: according to Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald, the Patriots have considered a trade for Cowboys offensive tackle La’El Collins. The 28-year-old has started 71 of 74 career games in Dallas and started 10 of 12 at right tackle in 2021. He’s under contract for the next three seasons at $10 million annually.
NFL Free Agent Tracker: Tuesday, March 15
Patriots trading Shaq Mason to Bucs
Aug 19, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; New England Patriots offensive guard Shaq Mason (69) runs off the field against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Per Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald, the Patriots are trading guard Shaq Mason to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. According to Phil Perry, they’re getting a fifth-round pick in return.
The move clears about $7 million in cap space for the Patriots, so we’ll see if this is a precursor to a free-agent signing.
Patriots bringing back James White
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – SEPTEMBER 19: Running back James White #28 of the New England Patriots runs the ball against cornerback Michael Carter II #30 the New York Jets in the second quarter of the game at MetLife Stadium on September 19, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
The Patriots are bringing back RB James White, according to Tom Pelissero. His new deal is for two years and worth up to $2.5 million with $500,000 guaranteed.
White plays a crucial role in the Patriots’ offense as the team’s pass-catching back, and is also a multi-time captain. However, he played just three games last year before suffering a season-ending hip injury in September.
UPDATE: According to Josina Anderson, the max value of White’s deal with the Patriots is actually $7 million, if he meets certain undisclose dincentives.
Former Patriots linebacker staying in Miami
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 05: Elandon Roberts #52 of the Miami Dolphins celebrates after a defensive play against the New York Giants in the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium on December 05, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images)
Former Patriots linebacker Elandon Roberts is re-signing with the Dolphins on a one-year, $3.25 million contract per Adam Schefter. Roberts originally signed with Miami in the 2020 offseason after his rookie deal expired in New England. At the time, he was playing for former Patriots linebacker coach Brian Flores, who was let go by Miami earlier this offseason and replaced by an offensive-minded coach in Mike McDaniel.
Bills add pass-catching back
LANDOVER, MARYLAND – NOVEMBER 29: J.D. McKissic #41 of the Washington Football Team carries the ball against the Seattle Seahawks during the fourth quarter at FedExField on November 29, 2021 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
According to Adam Schefter, the Buffalo Bills are adding another weapon for Josh Allen in pass-catching running back J.D. McKissic. McKissic, who comes over from Washington, is expected to sign a two-year, $7 million deal.
Top free agent safety heading to Baltimore
Marcus Williams #43 of the New Orleans Saints reacts after intercepting a pass against the Green Bay Packers during the second half at TIAA Bank Field on September 12, 2021 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images)
Marcus Williams, the top safety on the market in free agency, has his new team. According to Jeremy Fowler, the 25-year-old has inked a five-year, $70 million deal with the Ravens. Williams had 74 tackles and eight pass breakups in 16 games for the Saints last year.
Randy Gregory changes course
ARLINGTON, TEXAS – JANUARY 02: Kyler Murray #1 of the Arizona Cardinals is hit by Randy Gregory #94 of the Dallas Cowboys during the third quarter at AT&T Stadium on January 02, 2022 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
Despite reports that he was returning to the Cowboys, Randy Gregory has apparently had a change of heart. According to Mike Garafolo, Gregory now has agreed to terms with the Denver Broncos. Now, another top-tier edge defender is heading to the AFC West. Gregory had six sacks in 12 games for Dallas last year.
Andrew Whitworth announces his retirement
Feb 16, 2022; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams tackle Andrew Whitworth holds the Vince Lombardi trophy during the Super Bowl LVI championship rally at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Via his Instagram, 40-year-old tackle Andrew Whitworth announced he’s retiring from the NFL. Whitworth, who won his first career Super Bowl with the Rams in February and was named Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, played 16 NFL seasons between the Cincinnati and Los Angeles.
Dolphins adding to offensive line
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 19: Connor Williams #52 of the Dallas Cowboys at SoFi Stadium on September 19, 2021 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
According to multiple report, the Dolphins have inked a deal with former Cowboys guard Connor Williams. Per Jeff Howe, Williams’ new contract is for two years and worth up to $14 million with $7.5 million guaranteed. The 24-year-old started 51 games in four season for Dallas.
Randy Gregory cashes in with Cowboys
Randy Gregory #94 of the Dallas Cowboys sacks Mac Jones #10 of the New England Patriots in the third quarter at Gillette Stadium on October 17, 2021 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
According to Adam Schefter, the Dallas Cowboys are locking up dynamic pass-rusher Randy Gregory with a five-year deal for $70 million. The deal includes $28 million guaranteed.
Patriots trade Winovich to Browns
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – DECEMBER 28: Chase Winovich #50 of the New England Patriots leaves the field after the second half against the Buffalo Bills at Gillette Stadium on December 28, 2020 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The Bills won 38-9. (Photo by Maddie Malhotra/Getty Images)
We have a Patriots trade! They are sending linebacker Chase Winovich to the Cleveland Browns in exchange for Mack Wilson, as reported by Tom Pelissero. More details coming…
D.J. Chark to sign with Lions
D.J. Chark #17 of the Jacksonville Jaguars makes a reception for a touchdown during the game against the Arizona Cardinals at TIAA Bank Field on September 26, 2021 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
According to Adam Schefter, former Jaguars wide receiver D.J. Chark has agreed to a one-year deal with the Detroit Lions. Chark can make up to $12 million. Another free-agent receiver comes off the board.
Patriots retain Nick Folk
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – NOVEMBER 18: Nick Folk #6 of the New England Patriots kicks a field goal against the Atlanta Falcons in the second quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on November 18, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
The Patriots are keeping veteran kicker Nick Folk in the fold for another year – or two. According to Tom Pelissero, it’s a two-year extension worth $5 million, including $2.19 million guaranteed. Folk can make up to $5.6M through incentives. The move buys the Patriots more time to develop young kicker Quinn Nordin, or otherwise keep looking for their kicker of the future.
Niners sign former Chiefs CB
Jan 12, 2020; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) faces Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Charvarius Ward (35) on the line of scrimmage during the AFC Divisional Round playoff football game at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
The San Francisco 49ers are signing former Chiefs cornerback Charvarius Ward to a three-year deal worth up to $42 million, including $26.7 million guaranteed. Adam Schefter had the details. Any time the Chiefs’ roster is weakened is good news for the rest of the AFC.
Frank Clark restructures with Chiefs
Frank Clark #55 of the Kansas City Chiefs prepares to sack Brian Hoyer #2 of the New England Patriots at Arrowhead Stadium on October 05, 2020 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
Defensive end Frank Clark has reworked his contract to stay with Kansas City and help the team free up cap space. According to Ian Rapoport, Clark’s new deal is for two years and a base value of $29 million, with a chance to make up to $36M.
Chiefs sign Justin Reid
Nelson Agholor #15 of the New England Patriots runs with the ball as Justin Reid #20 of the Houston Texans defends during the first half at NRG Stadium on October 10, 2021 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
As reported by Ian Rapoport, the Chiefs are signing safety Justin Reid. Additionally, Rapoport says this means Tyrann Mathieu will be signing elsewhere.
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Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.