NFL: In the realm of NFL free agency, bad contracts abound—agreements that prompt immediate skepticism from any reasonable observer. Nevertheless, these signings persist annually as general managers strive to maintain their positions, often enticed by the allure of surplus cap space.
Occasionally, amidst this sea of questionable deals, a gem emerges—a signing that not only enhances a team’s immediate prospects but also augments its long-term trajectory.
Below, we present the top 10 signings from the NFL 2024 free-agent class.
1.Kirk Cousins, QB, Atlanta Falcons
Despite concerns surrounding his age and recent injury, Cousins stands out as the Falcons’ most impactful signing. With an impressive track record, including multiple 4,200-yard passing seasons with the Vikings, Cousins’ arrival heralds a new era for the Falcons, albeit at a significant cost of $180 million over four years.
2.Mitch Morse, C, Jacksonville Jaguars
Morse, a seasoned veteran overcoming early career durability concerns, reunites with coach Doug Pederson in Jacksonville on a two-year deal. Addressing a pressing need to revamp the offensive line, Morse’s experience and reliability bode well for the Jaguars.
3.Bryce Huff, Edge, Philadelphia Eagles
Huff’s breakout season with the Jets earned him recognition, leading to a significant role with the Eagles on a one-year, $7 million deal. With 10 sacks despite limited playing time in 2023, Huff joins a formidable pass-rushing unit in Philadelphia.
4.Marquise Brown, WR, Kansas City Chiefs
Brown’s acquisition represents a shrewd move by the Chiefs, securing the dynamic receiver on a one-year, $7 million deal potentially worth $11 million with incentives. With a 1,000-yard season under his belt in 2021, Brown now looks to elevate his game further alongside quarterback Patrick Mahomes in Kansas City.
5.Kendall Fuller, CB, Miami Dolphins
Fuller’s arrival provides a silver lining for the Dolphins amid a flurry of departures. Signing a two-year, $16 million contract, the versatile cornerback brings experience and adaptability, capable of thriving in various roles within Miami’s talented secondary alongside Jalen Ramsey.
6.Christian Wilkins, DT, Las Vegas Raiders
In the wake of Chris Jones’ re-signing with the Kansas City Chiefs, Wilkins emerged as the premier defensive tackle in free agency, clinching a lucrative four-year, $110 million deal with the Raiders, including $84.75 million guaranteed. Teaming up with Maxx Crosby, Wilkins promises to fortify the Raiders’ defensive line, building on his impressive nine-sack performance with the Miami Dolphins in 2023.
7.Frankie Luvu, LB, Washington Commanders
Luvu, transitioning from a part-time role with the New York Jets to a standout performer with the Carolina Panthers, inked a three-year, $36 million deal with the Commanders. Recording over 100 tackles in each of the past two seasons, along with 12.5 sacks, Luvu strengthens Washington’s formidable front seven.
8.Andrew Van Ginkel, LB, Minnesota Vikings
Underrated but impactful, Van Ginkel joins the Vikings on a two-year, $20 million contract, bolstering their front seven alongside edge rusher Jonathan Greenard and linebacker Blake Cashman. Previously collaborating with coordinator Brian Flores in Miami, Van Ginkel’s versatility shone through with 69 tackles, 19 quarterback hits, six sacks, and an interception last season.
9.Xavier McKinney, S, Green Bay Packers
McKinney, the market’s top safety, secured a four-year, $68 million deal with the Packers, addressing a glaring weakness in their depth chart. Accumulating nine interceptions and 27 passes defensed during his tenure with the New York Giants, McKinney joins a formidable secondary alongside corners Jaire Alexander and Eric Stokes.
10.Derrick Henry, RB, Baltimore Ravens
Derrick Henry’s union with the Ravens appears tailor-made. However, his ranking at 10th is influenced by positional value and age. At 30, Henry remains one of the league’s premier running backs, earning a two-year, $20 million deal. Despite a foot injury limiting him to eight games in 2021, Henry has led the league in carries for two consecutive seasons, amassing 25 touchdowns and 2,705 yards rushing.
