The NFL off-season is always an exciting time for football fans as teams look to improve their rosters through free agency. This year was no different, with several high-profile players changing teams and signing lucrative contracts. Here’s a look at some of the top free agent additions in the NFL off-season.
1. Tom Brady, QB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Perhaps the biggest free agent signing of the off-season was Tom Brady’s move to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. After 20 seasons with the New England Patriots, Brady signed a two-year, $50 million deal with the Bucs. The six-time Super Bowl champion brings a wealth of experience and leadership to Tampa Bay, and he’ll be looking to lead the team to its first playoff appearance since 2007.
2. DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals made a splash in free agency by acquiring wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins from the Houston Texans. Hopkins is widely regarded as one of the best receivers in the game, and he’ll provide a much-needed boost to Arizona’s offense. The Cardinals gave up running back David Johnson and a second-round pick to land Hopkins, but many believe it was a steal for Arizona.
3. Byron Jones, CB, Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins made a big investment in their defense by signing cornerback Byron Jones to a five-year, $82.5 million deal. Jones is one of the top cornerbacks in the league and will pair with Xavien Howard to form a formidable duo in Miami’s secondary. The Dolphins also added pass rusher Shaq Lawson and linebacker Kyle Van Noy to further bolster their defense.
4. Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers moved on from longtime quarterback Cam Newton and signed Teddy Bridgewater to a three-year, $63 million deal. Bridgewater played well in relief of Drew Brees last season with the New Orleans Saints, and he’ll be looking to prove himself as a starting quarterback in Carolina. The Panthers also added wide receiver Robby Anderson to give Bridgewater another weapon in the passing game.
5. Cory Littleton, LB, Las Vegas Raiders
The Las Vegas Raiders made several moves in free agency, but perhaps the most impactful was the signing of linebacker Cory Littleton. Littleton was one of the top linebackers available and signed a three-year, $36 million deal with the Raiders. He’ll provide a much-needed boost to Las Vegas’ defense, which struggled last season.
Overall, the 2020 NFL off-season saw several big-name players change teams and sign lucrative contracts. It will be interesting to see how these players perform with their new teams and whether they can help lead their respective franchises to success.
