Best NFL Free Agency Signings

Author: Jack Casabonne

Editor: Aaron Mesco

The NFL free agency period is always an exciting time, with teams and fans alike convinced that a few signings can put them in contention for the Lombardi Trophy. The 2021 free agency period has been no different, which will result in many players sporting new colors next season. I want to look at what I consider the three best contracts handed out during the 2021 NFL free agency period. I’ve judged these signings based upon scheme fit, contract details, and upside potential.

New York Jets sign Carl Lawson to 3 year, $45 million contract:

The Jets were expected to be active in free agency this offseason, and one of their biggest moves was signing former Cincinnati Bengals DE Carl Lawson. New head coach Robert Saleh knows the importance of a strong defensive line. While working as the defensive coordinator in San Francisco, Saleh coached a line consisting of Nick Bosa, Arik Armstead, DeForest Buckner, and Dee Ford. With the addition of Lawson, Saleh now has an edge presence to team up with Quinnen Williams on the interior. Lawson’s sack numbers are not necessarily eye-opening, with 20 career sacks in 51 games. However, this has more to do with the lack of help elsewhere on the defensive line in Cincinnati. Lawson did finish second in quarterback hits in 2020, and was rated the 13th best defensive end by Pro Football Focus. Turning 26 in June, Lawson is still an incredibly young player with tremendous upside. I think having another solid pass rusher in Williams will help reduce the number of double teams Lawson will see, and should result in better statistical output. The Jets found a very impressive edge defender who should continue to grow and evolve as he reaches his prime.

Cleveland Browns sign John Johnson III to 3 year, $33.75 million contract:

Browns general manager Andrew Berry continues to make smart decisions since entering the role in 2020. Signing the best free agent safety to a deal below market value certainly adds to the list. Johnson spent his first four years of his career playing for the Rams, where he became one of the best players at his position. Not only is Johnson an extremely talented player, but he is also a leader, something that is needed in the young Cleveland secondary. Johnson was one of three captains of the Rams’ top-tier defense in 2020, demonstrating his importance in the locker room. Pro Football Focus gave Johnson an 83.5 grade for the 2020 season, which ranks 3rd among all safeties. He isn’t just a one year wonder, however. Outside of his injury-shortened 2019 season, Johnson has earned a PFF coverage grade over 80 since he joined the league in 2017. This signing will give Cleveland a true deep presence, as Johnson was responsible for LA allowing the least amount of 40 yard+ competitions in 2020. Johnson is still only 25, leaving room for growth alongside the rest of the young Cleveland defense as they make a push to dethrone the Chiefs in the AFC.

Washington Football Team signs Curtis Samuel to 3 year, $34.5 million contract:

One of Washington’s biggest priorities this offseason was to get a number two receiver to pair with Terry McLaurin. The signing of former Carolina Panther Curtis Samuel fills this role perfectly by giving the Football Team a dangerous weapon. Coming out of Ohio State, Samuel was an intriguing prospect, with the ability to be utilized as both a runner and a pass catcher. 2020 was a true breakout year for Samuel, as Joe Brady was able to perfectly utilize him in his offensive scheme. Samuel finished the season with career highs in catches, receiving yards, and rushing yards. Despite Teddy Bridgewater’s mediocre first season in Carolina, Samuel posted 851 receiving yards as he became a key player in the offense. Pairing up with his former Ohio State teammate in McLaurin, Samuel should fit right in as the number two receiver in Washington. With steady improvement every year since he was drafted, this contract could turn out to be a steal. Samuel will be 25 at the start of the season, and will look to record his first 1,000 receiving yard season in Washington.

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