Calvin Ridley has signed a four-year, $92 million contract with the Tennessee Titans, with $50 million guaranteed. This move marks the beginning of the official free agency period in the NFL, as teams aim to dethrone the reigning champion Kansas City Chiefs.
Ridley, who was expected to re-sign with the Jaguars, will provide a boost to the Titans' offense, offering support to young quarterback Will Levis. Despite missing significant time in previous seasons due to various reasons, Ridley's performance last season with the Jaguars showcased his potential, with 76 receptions for 1,016 yards and eight touchdowns.
In addition to Ridley, the Titans also secured Mason Rudolph on a one-year contract to bolster their quarterback depth.
Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders strengthened their defense by acquiring six-time Pro Bowl linebacker Bobby Wagner from the Seattle Seahawks. Wagner, who led the NFL in tackles last season, reunites with coach Dan Quinn, with whom he previously won a Super Bowl.
Elsewhere, the Houston Texans continued their upward trajectory by signing edge rusher Danielle Hunter to a two-year, $49 million deal. Hunter's standout performance last season, with 16 1/2 sacks, adds firepower to the Texans' defense.
Not to be outdone, the Baltimore Ravens made a significant move by bringing in running back Derrick Henry from the Titans. Henry, a two-time NFL rushing champion, joins forces with MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson to fortify the Ravens' ground game.
Despite these notable signings, the Kansas City Chiefs, the reigning champions, made key moves to retain core players. They secured All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones on a lucrative five-year contract and restructured Patrick Mahomes' deal to create salary cap space.
As teams across the league reshuffle their rosters, the landscape of the NFL is evolving with seasoned quarterbacks and veteran running backs finding new homes. The free agency frenzy has set the stage for an exciting 2024 season, with teams making strategic moves to enhance their competitiveness.
With the NFL offseason in full swing, fans can expect more player transactions and roster adjustments as teams gear up for the upcoming season.