Analysis
2/22/23
46 min read
2023 NFL Free Agency Buzz: Updates on Player Signings, Restructures, Franchise Tags
Wednesday, March 8
Giants Negotiating Lawrence Extension
The New York Giants began negotiations with defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence on a potential long-term extension, New York general manager Joe Schoen told reporters on Wednesday.
Lawrence broke out in 2022, earning Second-team All-Pro honors at just 25 years old. With the market for interior defenders trending up in recent seasons, Lawrence could be in line for a lucrative new deal.
The Giants are fresh off signing quarterback Daniel Jones to a four-year extension and they just used the franchise tag to retain Saquon Barkley. It's possible the next step for Schoen and company is to lock up their young defensive star.
Bears Extend Blasingame
The Chicago Bears brought back fullback Khari Blasingame on a two-year deal, Blasingame's agency announced.
In his first year with the Bears and fourth total in the NFL, Blasingame did not receive an offensive touch, but did play a career-high 174 offensive and 215 special teams snaps.
Jets Restructure Uzomah
The New York Jets are restructuring tight end C.J. Uzomah's contract to create $3.6 million in cap space, NFL Media reported.
The Jets could be making an attempt to clear extra cap space as they pursue an Aaron Rodgers trade.
Texans Grab QB Perry Off Waivers
The Houston Texans have claimed quarterback EJ Perry off of waivers from the Jaguars, ESPN reported.
Perry spent the entire 2022 season on Jacksonville's practice squad.
Jaguars release CB Griffin
The Jacksonville Jaguars have released cornerback Shaquill Griffin, the team announced.
The move will clear $13 million of salary cap room.
Cardinals release WR Anderson
The Arizona Cardinals released wide receiver Chosen Robbie Anderson, the team announced, after a disappointing half-season following a trade from Carolina.
Cutting Anderson clears $12 million of salary cap space for the team.
Tuesday, March 7
Donovan Smith Hits the Market
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are leasing long-time starting left tackle Donovan Smith, ESPN reported. The move will save Tampa Bay nearly $10 million against its salary cap.
Smith was the Buccaneers' starting left tackle for eight seasons and could earn a decent payday in free agency this year.
Dolphins Cut Byron Jones
The Miami Dolphins informed cornerback Byron Jones he will be released at the start of the new league year on March 15, ESPN reported. Miami will save $13.6 million against its salary cap.
Jones missed the entire 2022 season recovering from Achilles' surgery. He also recently tweeted about he couldn't "run or jump anymore," taking aim at the NFL's treatment of players.
Patriots Won't Tag CB Jones
The New England Patriots won't place the franchise tag on standout cornerback Jonathan Jones, NFL Media reported. New England is still interested in bringing him back.
This past season, Jones had 69 tackles (56 solo) and four interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown.
Falcons Make Pair of Moves
Free agent pass-rusher Lorenzo Carter is set to return to the Atlanta Falcons on a two-year deal, NFL Media reported.
In his fifth season in the league - his first with Atlanta after four with the New York Giants - the linebacker had 58 tackles (29 solo), one interception (for a touchdown) and one fumble recovered.
Also, the team will not apply the franchise tag to right tackle Kaleb McGary, ESPN reported, making him available for free agency.
