As the NFL offseason kicks into high gear, one of the most exciting aspects for fans is the free agency period. This is the time when players whose contracts have expired become available to sign with any team in the league. The 2021 free agency class is particularly stacked with big names, and there are several key storylines to watch as teams look to improve their rosters for the upcoming season.
One of the biggest names on the market is quarterback Dak Prescott. The Dallas Cowboys signal-caller is coming off a season-ending ankle injury, but he was playing at an MVP level before going down. Prescott has been seeking a long-term contract from the Cowboys for the past two offseasons, but the two sides have been unable to come to an agreement. If Dallas can’t lock him up before free agency begins, there will be no shortage of suitors for the talented QB.
Another quarterback who could be on the move is Deshaun Watson. The Houston Texans star has requested a trade and has made it clear that he has no intention of playing for the team again. Watson is one of the best quarterbacks in the league and would instantly make any team he joins a contender. However, his contract makes him a difficult player to trade, and it remains to be seen where he will end up.
Wide receiver Allen Robinson is another big name to watch in free agency. The Chicago Bears’ top pass-catcher is set to hit the open market, and he should have no shortage of suitors. Robinson has been one of the most consistent receivers in the league over the past few seasons, and he would be a valuable addition to any team in need of a reliable target.
On the defensive side of the ball, edge rusher Shaquil Barrett is one of the most sought-after players in free agency. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers pass rusher was instrumental in the team’s Super Bowl run last season, and he could be in line for a big payday. Barrett has said that he wants to stay in Tampa Bay, but if the team can’t afford to keep him, there will be plenty of teams lining up to sign him.
Finally, safety Justin Simmons is another player to keep an eye on in free agency. The Denver Broncos’ star defender is coming off a Pro Bowl season and is widely regarded as one of the best safeties in the league. Simmons has said that he wants to stay in Denver, but if the two sides can’t come to an agreement on a long-term deal, he could be one of the most sought-after players on the market.
Overall, the 2021 NFL free agency period promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. With so many big names available, teams will be looking to make a splash and improve their rosters for the upcoming season. Whether it’s Dak Prescott, Deshaun Watson, Allen Robinson, Shaquil Barrett, or Justin Simmons, there will be plenty of storylines to follow as free agency gets underway.
