Sports chick: Early free agency frenzy moves

Judging by the amount of excitement generated by the Playoffs and Super Bowl, Bermuda certainly has a large contingent of hardcore NFL fans.

As such, you will probably want to stay updated on all the free agency moves that are going on in the NFL. We have you covered.

From March 11 to May 2, free agents (FA) around the league are up for grabs if their current team decides not to resign them.  

This is known as free agency frenzy. The name is extremely fitting, especially when multiple teams are interested in the same FA. 

Some compare it to an auction of sorts, given many players agree to a contract with the team who offers the highest bid. 

For the teams bidding, they are looking for that key player to fill a vital position on the field, even if  it means sacrificing a huge name on their roster.

This year, there have been significant moves in the league. 

While some make perfect sense for the team acquiring them, others have left NFL fans and gurus scratching their heads.

To keep you in the loop of all the movements…so far, here’s a brief breakdown of all the notable FA signings. 

They are broken down into who the NFL experts at ESPN see as winners and losers. But you are the ultimate judge on whether these teams made a massive touchdown or a huge fumble in their attempts to beef up their rosters.

Winners

Denver Broncos

After a complete meltdown in the Super Bowl, John Elway has made several outstanding dream signings a reality. 

He spent $110 million in contracts and $60 million in guarantees for defensive end DeMarcus Ware, cornerback Aqib Talib and safety T.J. Ward. 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Bucs invested a whopping $125.5 million in contracts for six players: quarterback Josh McCown, defensive end Michael Johnson, left tackle Anthony Collins, cornerback Alterraun Verner, tight end Brandon Myers and defensive tackle Clinton McDonald.

Atlanta Falcons

The Falcons knew they had to beef up their O and D lines.  As a result, they signed star return guy Devin Hester along with Paul Soliai and Tyson Jackson to the defensive line and Jon Asamoah at guard.

Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles put up $3.5 million for Darren Sproles, who will now play alongside LeSean McCoy. They also snagged safety Malcolm Jenkins and cornerback Nolan Carroll.

Losers

Oakland Raiders

Despite signing Justin Tuck and LaMarr Woodley, they lost Jared Veldhee and LaMarr Houston. Their roster seems to be getting older rather than younger.

Dallas Cowboys

Jerry Jones will definitely be scrambling after losing Ware and Jason Hatcher and playing the waiting game with Anthony Spencer.

The massive loss overshadows the signing of QB Brandon Weeden and signed DT Henry Melton.

Carolina Panthers

Cutting Steve Smith could be the worst mistake the Panthers make. They also said goodbye to Ted Ginn Jr. and Domenik Hixon, while Brandon LaFell is a FA. They also lost a lot of strength in their secondary.

Shockers

New York Giants

The Gmen snag RB Rashad Jennings and CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie but lose Justin Tuck and Hakeem Nicks in the process.

New York Jets

Michael Vick and Eric Decker jet to New York, while Mark Sanchez waits by the phone.

New England Patriots

The Pats reached agreement with CB Darrelle Revis, added Brandon LaFelland and resigned Julian Edelman to a four-year $17 million and $6 million guaranteed deal,

Seattle Seahawks

Part with Golden Boy Tate, who will now be roaring with the Detroit Lions.

Green Bay Packers

The newest cheese head is Julius Peppers.

Baltimore Ravens 

Ravens signed five time pro-bowler Steve Smith.

Chicago Bears: Snag Jared Allen from the Vikings for what could be a $32 million with $15.5 million guaranteed deal.

There you have it. The deadline is not until May 2, though, so it’s definitely  going to be interesting to see what goes down between now and then. 

Follow Bobbi Singh on Twitter @sportschickca.