With the work stoppage already a distant memory, all 32 teams around the NFL had the handcuffs taken off and have since begun their league year. Despite the fact that deals with other players can’t become official until Friday evening, some clubs are doing what’s permitted at the moment; and that’s retain talent for the long haul.
On Tuesday, the first post-lockout day of the offseason, teams were given the opportunity to negotiate with their own players and rookies. Although a flurry of deals took place — some of modest value, others that presently are undisclosed — two pacts stood out among the bunch.
Let it be known that Carolina’s Charles Johnson and Dallas’ Doug Free set the stage for what should be a wild free agency period.
Johnson agreed to a six-year, $76 million contact with a staggering $30 million signing bonus. The defense end will also receive $32 million in guaranteed money.
A definite top five free agent prospect, the Panthers made it their mission to re-sign the fifth-year pass-rushing extraordinaire. Though the argument could be made that they overpaid a bit, Johnson — who recorded 11.5 sacks in 2010 — was sought after by many teams, including the Atlanta Falcons, who contacted him earlier in the day.
Only 24-years-old, Johnson will continue to be a stud along the Cats’ defensive line as he enters his prime.
Free, the Cowboys’ starting left tackle from last season, didn’t earn an extension on par with Johnson’s, but it’s not exactly chump change either: four-years, $32 million, $17 million in guarantees.
On a day where Dallas cut bait with several key players, including running back Marion Barber and offensive lineman Leonard Davis, Free was one player that owner Jerry Jones was intent on keeping. As Flozell Adams’ replacement, Free demonstrated elite ability all season, shutting down Julius Peppers, Mario Williams, and other high profile pass rushers.
Signed through 2015, Free is now entrenched as Tony Romo’s blindside protector.
After many months of inactivity, the start of the NFL’s signing period was certainly a welcomed site to behold. Though, with the top commodities still left on the open market — Nnamdi Asomugha, Santonio Holmes, and Sidney Rice, anyone? — Tuesday’s happenings were just the tip of the impending transactions iceberg.
