NFL Football 24-Hour Briefing
×Contract Extensions and Cap Moves
The Ravens restructured Lamar Jackson's deal to create nearly $40 million in salary cap space, a move that comes as they signed Trey Hendrickson to a high-priced contract after their canceled Maxx Crosby trade. Baltimore's aggressive approach continued with Patrick Ricard agreeing to join the Giants, reuniting with former coach John Harbaugh. Meanwhile, the Steelers locked up Cameron Heyward on a one-year extension, keeping their defensive captain in Pittsburgh.
Free Agency Signings
The Colts secured Daniel Jones on a two-year, $88 million deal that can reach $100 million, while the Texans landed Braden Smith on a two-year, $25 million contract. Houston also made Ka'imi Fairbairn the NFL's highest-paid kicker with a two-year, $13 million extension. The Patriots landed Romeo Doubs on a four-year, $80 million deal and released Anfernee Jennings to save $3.8 million in cap space. Washington added K'Lavon Chaisson on a one-year deal and signed Leo Chenal to a three-year, $24.75 million contract, bolstering their defense.
Veteran Returns and Reunions
The Jets traded for Geno Smith, bringing back their 2013 second-round pick before he hit free agency. The Lions signed Isiah Pacheco to pair with Jahmyr Gibbs in their backfield, while the Eagles added Riq Woolen on a one-year, $15 million deal. The Browns, after their entire starting offensive line entered free agency, re-signed Teven Jenkins and added Elgton Jenkins on a two-year deal. The Saints reunited with Kaden Elliss on a three-year, $33 million contract, bringing back the linebacker they originally drafted.
NFC East Moves
The Commanders continued their aggressive offseason with multiple additions, including Chaisson, and Ricard. The Eagles secured Woolen, while the Cowboys made no major moves in the past 24 hours. The Giants' addition of Ricard gives them another veteran presence in their backfield.
AFC West Activity
The Chargers re-signed Trey Pipkins III on a two-year, $10 million deal, bringing back their versatile offensive lineman. The Chiefs saw Travis Kelce announce his return for a 14th season, citing fiancée Taylor Swift as a significant influence on his decision. The Broncos and Raiders made no major announcements in the past 24 hours.
Special Teams and Depth
The Packers added Skyy Moore on a one-year deal, giving them a wide receiver/kick returner. The Jets signed Nahshon Wright to a one-year, $5.5 million contract, adding depth to their secondary. These moves highlight teams focusing on special teams and depth chart improvements as free agency continues.
Notable Deaths
The NFL community mourned the loss of Matt Snell, the three-time Pro Bowl fullback who scored the only touchdown in the Jets' Super Bowl III upset of the Colts. Snell died of natural causes at age, leaving behind a legacy as one of the franchise's most important players in its championship history.
Trade Market Developments
While no major trades were completed in the past 24 hours, the Ravens' aborted Crosby deal and subsequent Hendrickson signing highlighted the fluid nature of the trade market. Teams continue to explore options as they balance draft capital with immediate needs, with several potential moves still being discussed league-wide.