NFL Football 24-Hour Briefing
×Offensive Line Restructuring
The Browns re-signed guard Teven Jenkins after their entire starting offensive line entered free agency, while also adding Elgton Jenkins on a two-year deal one day after he was released by the Packers. Houston bolstered their offensive line by reaching agreement with offensive tackle Braden Smith on a two-year, $25 million contract that includes $13.5 million fully guaranteed. The Patriots also bulk up their O-line by agreeing to a three-year deal with versatile lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker, though he comes with injury concerns from his previous stops.
Defensive Additions
The Commanders added to their defense with a reported three-year, $24.75 million deal for linebacker Leo Chenal, while the Kansas City Chiefs secured safety Alohi Gilman on a three-year, $24.75 million contract. The Saints reunited with linebacker Kaden Elliss on a three-year, $33 million deal, bringing back a player originally drafted by New Orleans. The Jets addressed their defensive needs by agreeing to a one-year contract with cornerback Nahshon Wright worth a maximum of $5.5 million, and the Giants addressed their cornerback need by signing Greg Newsome II to a one-year deal worth up to $10 million.
Wide Receiver & Skill Player Moves
The Patriots landed former Packers receiver Romeo Doubs on a four-year deal worth up to $80 million, while the Packers added Skyy Moore on a one-year deal to bolster their return game. The Lions signed running back Isiah Pacheco to pair with Jahmyr Gibbs, creating a new backfield combination, while the Jets traded for Raiders quarterback Geno Smith, reuniting the QB with the team that drafted him in 2013. The Chiefs agreed to a deal with wide receiver Tyquan Thornton on a two-year, $11 million contract with a maximum value of $14 million.
Special Teams & Kicker News
The Texans made Ka'imi Fairbairn the NFL's highest-paid kicker with a two-year, $13 million extension, while the Eagles struck a deal with cornerback Riq Woolen on a one-year contract worth up to $15 million to enhance their defensive backfield. The Steelers kept Cameron Heyward on a one-year extension, maintaining their longtime defensive captain, while the Ravens and Raiders continue to answer questions about their future after the failed Maxx Crosby trade fell through.
Roster Changes & Departures
The Lions watched wide receiver Kalif Raymond leave to join the Bears on a one-year contract, reuniting the receiver with Ben Johnson. The Bills managed to keep tight end Dawson Knox on a three-year contract despite a difficult salary cap situation, securing a key offensive piece. The Packers added Benjamin St-Juste to bolster their cornerback depth on a two-year, $10 million contract, while the Steelers signed running back Rico Dowdle to a two-year, $12.25 million deal to add depth to their backfield.
Player Returns & Personal News
Travis Kelce confirmed his returnREF:12