NFL News

[whatever_gong82]

From yesterday's Athletic. 1st of 4 parts.

One key NFL free-agent target for every team: Where would Jimmy Garoppolo, others fit?

Mike Jones Mar 11, 2023


The past couple of weeks have been busy in the NFL, with the combine, franchise-tag action and quarterback musical chairs in full swing. But next week, things will really kick into high gear across the league as free agency opens.

The “legal tampering” window, when teams are permitted to begin negotiating with the representatives of free agents, opens Monday at noon ET. Then, starting at 4 p.m. ET Wednesday, players can begin signing new deals.


This time of year, hope springs eternal as every team adds what its officials view as difference-making pieces to the puzzle.

Here’s a look at one key free-agent target who would make sense for each of the NFL’s 32 teams as they try to upgrade their rosters and position themselves for success this fall.



Arizona Cardinals: Edge Marcus Davenport

The Cardinals badly need a lead pass rusher with J.J. Watt now retired and Markus Golden better suited as a second fiddle. Davenport generates a lot of pressure, but last season only managed half a sack. This isn’t a strong year for pass rushers, because teams don’t let top edge guys walk. But Davenport could potentially help Arizona.


Atlanta Falcons: DT Javon Hargrave

The Falcons’ needs are plentiful, but they couldn’t stop anybody last season. That’s why despite the uncertainty at quarterback, Atlanta has to invest in the defense. Hargrave is regarded as one of the league’s top interior linemen.


Baltimore Ravens: WR JuJu Smith-Schuster

If Lamar Jackson stays, the Ravens need to upgrade his supporting cast. Former divisional rival Smith-Schuster, who just came up big in the Super Bowl for Kansas City, could help fill a void.


Buffalo Bills: RB Kareem Hunt

Buffalo needs more balance on offense and should’ve swung a deal at last year’s trade deadline to bring Hunt into the mix. It didn’t, but now gets a shot at a do-over by signing him in free agency. An improved rushing attack will help ease pressure on Josh Allen and make the Bills less predictable.


Carolina Panthers: QB Jacoby Brissett

Frank Reich has turned to the steady veteran before, and it just might be time for the Panthers coach to do so again. Carolina is fully expected to use the top pick (acquired Friday via trade with Chicago) on a quarterback. But Brissett would fill a big need as insurance if that prized rookie isn’t ready for prime time, and as a valuable mentor.



Chicago Bears: Edge Yannick Ngakoue

The Bears certainly need to surround Justin Fields with more weapons. But they also need to bolster their defense so Fields and the offense are in more favorable positions. A top-flight pass rusher like Ngakoue could help with that.

Cincinnati Bengals: OT Jawaan Taylor

Protecting Joe Burrow is always priority No. 1. The Bengals last offseason invested in their line but still have a long way to go before that unit is as strong as it needs to be. Landing Taylor could help Cincinnati take another step forward.


Cleveland Browns: LB Bobby Wagner

The Browns’ defense didn’t perform up to standards last season and that prompted a change at defensive coordinator. Cleveland could use some additional playmakers with whom Jim Schwartz could work. Wagner is a tackling machine and would serve as a good tone-setter to go along with Myles Garrett.


Dallas Cowboys: WR Adam Thielen

The Cowboys need to get Dak Prescott another weapon opposite CeeDee Lamb. Thielen brings a valuable veteran presence and is dependable with his ability to move the chains.


Denver Broncos: DL David Onyemata

The Broncos need to bolster the interior of their defensive line, so Sean Payton could look to his past and recruit eighth-year veteran Onyemata, who is coming off one of his most productive seasons.

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Detroit Lions: CB Jamel Dean

After giving up a league-high 392.4 yards per game and ranking third-worst against the pass, the Lions must address their secondary. Enter Dean, who has recorded multiple interceptions in three of his first four seasons in the league.


Green Bay Packers: TE Dalton Schultz

An impactful tight end is an important element of the Mike Shanahan offense that has been passed down to Matt LaFleur. But the Packers have been lacking in this area, which is why Schultz would make a lot of sense.


Houston Texans: QB Mike White

The Texans will draft one of the top quarterbacks, and possibly the No. 1 passer available. But they need a veteran quarterback, and White, who last season played under former Kyle Shanahan disciple LaFleur, would have good familiarity with the system Bobby Slowik is bringing from San Francisco.


Indianapolis Colts: QB Gardner Minshew

The Colts very well could snatch up one of the top quarterbacks in the draft, but rookie head coach Shane Steichen could use a veteran to help him get things started on the right foot. Minshew was in Philly with Steichen and could be the right man for the job.


Jacksonville Jaguars: CB Cameron Sutton

With defensive back ranking high on the Jaguars’ offseason shopping list, the rising Sutton (three interceptions, 15 pass breakups last season) would be a nice get.


Kansas City Chiefs: WR Michael Thomas

As an anticipated cap cut, Thomas would hit free agency after a few injury-plagued seasons, and there are few destinations more attractive than Kansas City, where Patrick Mahomes could use another playmaker to keep this dynasty train rolling.


Las Vegas Raiders: QB Jimmy Garoppolo

With Derek Carr now in New Orleans, the Raiders need to find the right quarterback for Josh McDaniels. There’s no better free-agent option than Garoppolo, who knows McDaniels’ system well from his time in New England, and also should come at a price that allows the Raiders to continue to address other roster holes.


L.A. Chargers: LB Devin Bush

They have the guys on the edge in Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack. But with losses expected at the heart of the defense, Bush could be a good option.


L.A. Rams: OT Kaleb McGary

Coming off a sorely disappointing season in which Matthew Stafford was battered and bruised and eventually placed on injured reserve, the Rams must invest in their offensive line. McGary, a first-round pick in 2019, could be a key building block.


Miami Dolphins: OT Mike McGlinchey

Desperate to better protect Tua Tagovailoa, Mike McDaniel could look to lure McGlinchey away from his old boss Kyle Shanahan and the 49ers.


Minnesota Vikings: Edge Trey Flowers

The Vikings must make key additions, and with Za’Darius Smith reportedly asking for his release, pass rusher becomes an even greater priority. Flowers had some of his best years in New England under new Minnesota defensive coordinator Brian Flores, so a reunion could be in order.

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New England Patriots: WR Kenny Golladay

The Patriots need wide receiver help, especially with Jakobi Meyers expected to depart via free agency. Golladay failed to meet expectations in New York but does have the potential to be an impact wideout. A fresh start in New England could be just what he needs.


New Orleans Saints: DT Sheldon Rankins

Solid both against the run and the pass, Rankins could help fill a void along the interior of a Saints defense that needs to improve.


New York Giants: WR Odell Beckham Jr.

OBJ hasn’t lost his love for the Big Apple, and with Daniel Jones now locked up for the long term and Saquon Barkley retained on the franchise tag, the Giants need a playmaker on the perimeter.


New York Jets: WR Allen Lazard

If they swing this trade for Aaron Rodgers, adding another wide receiver opposite Garrett Wilson makes a lot of sense. Lazard knows Rodgers well and thus could follow him from Green Bay.


Philadelphia Eagles: CB Patrick Peterson

A talented veteran like Peterson could help bolster a retooled defense in Philadelphia, where many familiar faces may be departing.


Pittsburgh Steelers: S C.J. Gardner-Johnson

Mike Tomlin’s defense needs more playmakers on the back end and Gardner-Johnson could help take the unit to another level.


San Francisco 49ers: CB James Bradberry

Gone is DeMeco Ryans, in his place is Steve Wilks, and getting him a top-flight cornerback like Bradberry could help ensure this unit remains among the best in the league.


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Seattle Seahawks: DT Dalvin Tomlinson

The Seahawks ranked among the worst in the league against the run, so they’ll be in pursuit of disruptive players for the interior of their line. Tomlinson fits the bill and shouldn’t break the bank to land.


Tampa Bay Buccaneers: QB Baker Mayfield

The Bucs and Mayfield are both looking for fresh starts. After showing promise late last season with the Rams, perhaps the 2018 No. 1 pick can help Todd Bowles and new offensive coordinator Dave Canales begin the post-Tom Brady era.


Tennessee Titans: WR Jakobi Meyers

The Titans have to sort out their quarterback situation, but regardless of who’s under center, he will need improved receivers. Meyers would likely be attractive to coach Mike Vrabel, who played for the Patriots.


Washington Commanders: LB Tremaine Edmunds

Washington’s defense has a great line but really could use an upgrade at inside linebacker. Edmunds, a two-time Pro Bowl selection with great size and versatility, could certainly make an impact.



Mike Jones joined The Athletic as a national NFL writer in 2022 after five years at USA Today, where he covered the NFL, and eight years at The Washington Post, where he covered the Washington Commanders. He previously covered the Washington Wizards for The Washington Times. Mike is a native of Warrenton, Va.

[Cody_Russell]

For whatever it’s worth:

[Futureshock]

Austin Ekeler requests permission to seek a trade

Posted by Myles Simmons on March 13, 2023, 12:29 PM EDT

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Could Austin Ekeler be on his way out of Los Angeles?

Though he’s been one of the Chargers most productive offensive players for the last few seasons, he might be.

Ekeler has requested permission to speak with other teams about a trade, Ekeler’s agent Cameron Weiss told ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Ekeler is entering the last year of his contract and is set to make $6.25 million in base salary in 2023. Ekeler has been seeking a new contract but preliminary talks did not progress with L.A., which induced the trade request.

Entering the league as an undrafted free agent in 2017, Ekeler immediately displayed ability as a change-of-pace back behind Melvin Gordon. But in the last few seasons, he’s been the lead back and has been one of the most productive offensive players in the game.

Ekeler led the league with 20 touchdowns in 2021 and again led the league with 18 touchdowns in 2022. He caught a career-high 107 passes last year, though he tallied only 722 yards receiving. He also rushed for 915 yards, averaging 4.5 yards per carry.

The Chargers do not have to grant Ekeler’s request. But the club could do so to gauge the potential compensation it would get in exchange for the running back.

[Futureshock]

Report: Seahawks plan to release Shelby Harris

Posted by Myles Simmons on March 13, 2023, 12:03 PM EDT

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The Seahawks are going to move on from one of their veteran defensive players.

According to Mike Garafolo of NFL Media, Seattle plans to release defensive lineman Shelby Harris.

Cutting Harris will save the Seahawks $8.9 million against the cap. Seattle had tried to find a trade partner but one did not emerge.

Acquired from the Broncos in last year’s Russell Wilson trade, Harris started 15 games for Seattle in 2022. He recorded 44 total tackles, with five tackles for loss, six QB hits, four passes defensed, and 2.0 sacks.

Harris began his career as a Raiders seventh-round pick in 2014. But he didn’t become an impact player until he made his way to Denver for the 2017 season. He broke out that year with 5.5 sacks while playing 52 percent of the club’s defensive snaps.

In 98 total games, Harris has 24.5 sacks, 40 tackles for loss, and 52 QB hits.

[Futureshock]

Broncos could trade Courtland Sutton, Jerry Jeudy, or K.J. Hamler

Posted by Mike Florio on March 13, 2023, 1:07 PM EDT

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With new coach Sean Payton taking over in Denver, an established receiver could be taking off.

Dan Graziano of ESPN.com reports that the Broncos have had trade talks with other teams regarding receiver Courtland Sutton, Jerry Jeudy, and K.J. Hamler.

Per the report, the Broncos have high expectations as to any trade offers.

Jeudy is entering the fourth year of his rookie first-round deal. Hamler is entering the final year of his rookie contract. Sutton has three years left on his second contract; trading him before June 1 would result in a dead-money charge of $11.475 million.

The question for Payton becomes whether he believes the players will fit his system and approach, and whether players with whom he has experience would make for a better fit as he implements and adapts his offense for quarterback Russell Wilson.

[Futureshock]

Raiders, Texans are “expected to pursue” Jimmy Garoppolo

Posted by Mike Florio on March 13, 2023, 11:50 AM EDT

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We already know the Texans are considering quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, because offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik said so last week. In addition to the Texans, the Raiders reportedly are expected to pursue Garoppolo, too.

Here’s the tweet from Adam Schefter of ESPN.com, the likely product of a text from Garoppolo’s agent, Don Yee: “When the negotiating window for free agency opens in under an hour, the Texans and Raiders are expected to pursue former 49ers’ QB Jimmy Garoppolo, per league sources. Jets also could get in, but they’re in wait-and-see mode right now.”

The Jets are waiting because Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers still hasn’t said whether he’ll agree to accept a trade to the Jets. And this is a tangible example of how the delicate genius is holding the Jets (and the Packers) hostage with his delayed decision-making process.

Garoppolo’s contract, which surely will be characterized in initial reports as being worth more than it is, will say plenty about whether he’s a long-term option, a short-term bridge, or maybe even a temporary solution until a rookie gets up to speed.

It’s hard to imagine Garoppolo preferring that approach, given that he said after the 2021 season in San Francisco that he wouldn’t wish the experience on anyone.

Really, unless someone is going to give Garoppolo a major commitment on a multi-year deal, the better approach could be to go to Miami and serve as the No. 2 to Tua Tagovailoa. Garoppolo said last year that the Dolphins were in the mix to trade for him.

[Futureshock]

Falcons to acquire Jonnu Smith from Patriots

Posted by Myles Simmons on March 13, 2023, 11:26 AM EDT

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The Falcons are bringing in a player their head coach is plenty familiar with.

Per Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, Atlanta is acquiring tight end Jonnu Smith from New England in exchange for a seventh-round draft pick.

The trade cannot become official until the new league year begins on Wednesday.

Falcons head coach Arthur Smith was Jonnu Smith’s position coach for the tight end’s first two seasons. Then Arthur Smith became Tennessee’s offensive coordinator and called plays for the tight end’s next two seasons.

The same year Arthur Smith became the Falcons head coach, Jonnu Smith headed to New England as a free agent. In 14 games last season, smith caught 27 passes for 245 yards with no touchdowns.

Jonnu Smith’s most productive year with the Titans was in 2020 when he caught 41 passes for 448 yards with eight TDs.

In six seasons, Smith has 169 catches for 1,841 yards with 17 touchdowns.

By trading Smith, the Patriots will save $4.4 million against the cap.

Albert Breer of SI.com reports the Falcons will restructure Jonnu Smith’s contract.

[Futureshock]

The NFL should dump the two-day negotiating period

Posted by Mike Florio on March 13, 2023, 11:23 AM EDT

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A decade or so ago, in response to evidence of rampant tampering before the official start of free agency, the NFL adopted a two-day negotiating period for impending free agents.

And now, of course, the rampant tampering happens before the negotiating period begins.

Wait and see. Before the negotiation period (known in many circles as “legal tampering”) was adopted, free agents would have multi-million-dollar deals with new teams in place literally minutes after the market opened. It still happens now; the only difference is that the contracts aren’t enforceable until they’re officially submitted to the league after 4:00 p.m. ET on Wednesday, when the league year opens.

Thus, the negotiating period serves no purpose, other than to confuse fans as to when free agency begins. It begins at noon ET on Monday. Why not just begin free agency then?

As of noon, teams will start calling agents with specific deals and tight deadlines. Teams will have a list of preferred options at the positions they’ve targeted. They’ll want to know if the first option is ready to do a deal. If he isn’t, they’ll have to move on to the next one. And the next.

But some deals will be already done. They are already done. Those are the ones we’ll hear about quickly. And it will be further proof that, despite the two-day legal tampering window, illegal tampering still happens.

So get rid of legal tampering. It’s a waste of time. Go back to the old approach, accept that all teams tamper, and trust that they’ll be discreet about it.

[ghandi]

Garoppollo to the Raiders...Another potential trade down partner goes to the wayside....I was thinking more them them trading up to 3, not trading to 6.

[Futureshock]

Garoppollo to the Raiders...Another potential trade down partner goes to the wayside....I was thinking more them them trading up to 3, not trading to 6.

May not be over yet. Pretty Jimmy can't stay healthy so adding someone to develop may be a good place. Also, trading with the Lions offers them a lot les to give up then other teams since it is for 1 spot.
. Jimmy Garoppolo to sign with Raiders

Posted by Myles Simmons on March 13, 2023, 2:01 PM EDT

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The Raiders have found another quarterback.

Las Vegas is signing Jimmy Garoppolo, according to multiple reports.

Adam Schefter of ESPN reports the deal is for three years and worth $67.5 million with $34 million guaranteed.

After spending the last six seasons with the 49ers, Garoppolo will reunite with Josh McDaniels — his former offensive coordinator with the Patriots.

Garoppolo was widely expected to be traded or released before the 2022 season began. But his offseason shoulder surgery was one reason teams were not as interested as San Francisco might have wanted, as Garoppolo wasn’t fully cleared in time for the offseason program.

The 49ers and Garoppolo agreed to a re-worked contract for Garoppolo to be San Francisco’s backup and he ended up playing almost right away when Trey Lance suffered a fractured ankle in Week Two.

But Garoppolo suffered what ended up being a season-ending foot injury of his own in the Week 13 matchup against the Dolphins.

In 11 appearances last season, Garoppolo completed 67 percent of his passes for 2,437 yards with 16 touchdowns and four interceptions.

Garoppolo seems likely to begin the season as Las Vegas’ starter. But the Raiders also seem likely to target a quarterback at No. 7 overall in this year’s draft.

Garoppolo, 31, was a Patriots second-round pick in 2014 and spent his first three seasons with the club. He was traded to San Francisco midway through the 2017 campaign.

[Futureshock]

Signs are indeed pointing to Aaron Rodgers joining the Jets

Posted by Mike Florio on March 13, 2023, 4:09 PM EDT

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It’s not official yet, but it’s quickly moving that way.

Packers (for now) quarterback Aaron Rodgers is indeed moving toward accepting a trade that would send him out the land of the Cheesehead and into the Big Apple.

Trey Wingo (who was the first to indicate the Jets had spoken to Rodgers last week) has tweeted that the deal is “done.” We’ve heard the same thing, albeit not quite as definitively.

Meanwhile, various Jets players are dropping hints about it on Twitter, from cornerback Sauce Gardner to running back Breece Hall to receiver Garrett Wilson to tackle Mekhi Becton.

The evidence is largely circumstantial. It hit our radar screen because Rodgers is involved in trying to persuade one or more free agents to join the Jets. Gardner hinted at “package deals” last week, if Rodgers were to accept a trade to the Jets.

So stay tuned. While nothing is truly done until it’s officially done, something seems to be very close to getting done with the Packers, Jets, and Rodgers.

[ghandi]

Aaron Rodgers and the NY media? what can go wrong there?