This is the day that all NFL players and fans look forward to. The official NFL year is officially underway. Many teams took the time before to look at all the possible players that will hit the free agent market. Many players are looking for a change of scenery, or they want to join a team that is on the brink of being a championship contender. With the first day of the NFL year coming to an end, let's take a look at the big names who moved around on the first day.
Alshon Jeffrey
Former Bears receiver Alshon Jeffrey is moving to the city of brotherly love, as he has signed with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Jeffrey had a down year last year, only catching 52 passes and two touchdowns last year. He missed the last four games of last season due to a NFL substance abuse policy suspension. Jefferson was a pro-bowl selection in 2013 and is also one of the most productive Bears in team history, ranking second in most receiving yards per game.
The deal is a one year, $14 million deal Jeffrey told ESPN's Josina Anderson. This is win-win for both side because the Eagles get a talented receiver, but no long-term commitment if he doesn't perform well. The also get deep at receiver, which struggled most of last season. For Jeffrey, he is getting a decent salary and has a stable QB in Carson Wentz who he can start to build chemistry with right away.
Calais Campbell
Star defensive lineman Calais Campbell is heading down to Jacksonville, inking a deal with the Jaguars. Campbell was a force on Arizona's line, having over 50 tackles, 8 sacks, 3 fumble recoveries, 2 forced fumbles and 1 interception that he returned for a touchdown. He joins Malik Jackson, who was signed to the team last March.
Campbell's deal is four-year $60 million deal with $30 million of that in guaranteed money. Campbell like the hunger in the young defense as he told ESPN's Josina Anderson, "They are a young and hungry defense that I want to lead."(ESPN).
Desean Jackson
Desean Jackson is leaving the Redskins to join Famous Jameis and the Tampa Bay Bucs.
Jackson was one of the top receivers on the Redskins last year having another 1,000 yard season. Jackson gives Winston a deep threat in the passing game, as he has 21 touchdowns in his career that are 50+ yards. He joins Mike Evans, a proven star which gives the Buc that one-two punch they needed.
Jackson's deal is a three-year $35 million contract with 20 million guaranteed. Jackson still has the speed to burn you deep, so this is a great move for Tampa. On one side, you have a strong possession receiver in Evans, and on the other, you have a proven speedster in Desean Jackson.
QB Movement
Lots of QBs were on the move today so let's get into the big names:
- The Cowboys are now expected to trade QB Tony Romo to either the Broncos or Texans.
- QB Brian Hoyer signed with the San Francisco 49ers.
- Texans trade QB Brock Osweiler to Browns for draft picks. This probably opens up room for Houston to get Romo.
- Mike Glennon signs with the Chicago Bears.
- The Bears released Jay Cutler has gained interest from the New York Jets.
Lots of movement happened in the first day of the NFL Free Agency sweepstakes.
We can only expect it to get more crazy, as we enter day two of the new NFL year. Many more deals were made, but these were the big headliners in the NFL. Make sure you check back for more free agent news.
