The 2023 NFL free agency period was one of the most exciting in recent memory, with several big-name players changing teams and many teams making significant moves to improve their rosters. As with any free agency period, there were some signings that were considered to be great bargains, while others were seen as major risks that could backfire on the teams that made them. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top five best and worst signings of the 2023 NFL free agency period.
The Best Signings:
Matthew Stafford – LA Rams
The Rams made a major move to upgrade their quarterback position by trading for Matthew Stafford, and so far, the move has paid off. Stafford has been excellent in his first season in LA, leading the Rams to the top of the NFC West and establishing himself as an MVP candidate.
Who is Matthew Stafford
Matthew Stafford is a professional American football quarterback who was born on February 7, 1988 in Tampa, Florida. He is widely regarded as one of the most talented quarterbacks of his generation and has achieved significant success during his career in the National Football League (NFL).
Stafford played college football at the University of Georgia, where he established himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the country. In 2009, he was selected as the first overall pick in the NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions, a team that had struggled in recent years.
Despite joining a struggling team, Stafford quickly established himself as a star in the league. He holds numerous NFL records, including the most passing yards in a single game (for a regulation-length game), the fastest quarterback to reach 30,000 career passing yards, and the most comeback wins in a single season.
Throughout his career, Stafford has been widely recognized for his accuracy, arm strength, and ability to make plays under pressure. He has been selected to multiple Pro Bowls and has been named the NFC Offensive Player of the Week several times.
Off the field, Stafford is known for his philanthropic work and dedication to improving his community. He and his wife, Kelly, established the Stafford Family Foundation, which provides support and resources to families and children in need.
Today, Matthew Stafford continues to play at an elite level in the NFL, and is widely regarded as one of the top quarterbacks in the league. With his combination of talent and leadership, he has established himself as a true franchise player, and remains a beloved figure among fans and teammates alike.
Aaron Jones – Green Bay Packers
The Packers managed to re-sign running back Aaron Jones to a very reasonable contract, which was a major win for the team. Jones has been one of the most productive backs in the league over the past few seasons, and keeping him in Green Bay gives the Packers a potent weapon on offense.
Who is Aaron Jones
Aaron Jones is a professional American football running back who was born on December 2, 1994 in Savannah, Georgia. He is currently playing for the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League (NFL).
Jones played college football at the University of Texas at El Paso, where he established himself as a standout running back. In 2017, he was selected by the Green Bay Packers in the fifth round of the NFL Draft.
Despite being a later-round pick, Jones quickly proved himself as a valuable asset to the Packers. In his rookie season, he led the team in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns, and earned a reputation as one of the league’s most promising young players.
Over the course of his career, Jones has continued to excel on the field. He has earned multiple Pro Bowl selections, and has established himself as one of the NFL’s most productive running backs. In 2019, he rushed for over 1,000 yards and scored 19 touchdowns, cementing his status as one of the league’s most dynamic offensive weapons.
Off the field, Jones is known for his community involvement and his dedication to charitable causes. He has established the Aaron Jones Foundation, which provides resources and support to underprivileged children and families in his home state of Texas.
With his combination of talent, work ethic, and dedication to improving his community, Aaron Jones has established himself as one of the most exciting young players in the NFL today. As he continues to grow and develop as a player, he is poised to become one of the league’s biggest stars, and a beloved figure among Packers fans for years to come.
Shaquil Barrett – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs managed to retain Shaquil Barrett on a long-term deal, which was a major priority for the team. Barrett has been one of the most consistent pass rushers in the league over the past few seasons, and he played a key role in the Bucs’ Super Bowl win in 2021.
Who is Shaquil Barrett
Shaquil Barrett is an American football outside linebacker who was born on November 17, 1992 in Baltimore, Maryland. He currently plays for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League (NFL).
Barrett played college football at Colorado State University, where he established himself as a standout pass rusher. Despite his impressive college career, he went undrafted in the 2014 NFL Draft, and signed with the Denver Broncos as a free agent.
In Denver, Barrett established himself as one of the top young pass rushers in the NFL. Known for his speed, agility, and relentless motor, he quickly emerged as a key contributor on defense, and helped the Broncos win Super Bowl 50 in 2016.
After five seasons in Denver, Barrett signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2019. In his first season with the team, he established himself as one of the top pass rushers in the NFL, leading the league in sacks with 19.5, and earning his first Pro Bowl selection.
Off the field, Barrett is known for his philanthropy and his dedication to giving back to his community. He has established the Barrett Foundation, which provides resources and support to underprivileged children and families in the Denver and Tampa Bay areas.
With his combination of talent, work ethic, and commitment to improving his community, Shaquil Barrett has established himself as one of the most respected and beloved players in the NFL today. As he continues to develop as a player and a leader, he is poised to become one of the league’s biggest stars, and a role model for young athletes everywhere.
Trent Williams – San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers made a big splash by trading for Trent Williams last offseason, and the move has paid off. Williams has been one of the best left tackles in the league for years, and he has been a major asset to the 49ers’ offensive line.
Who is Trent Williams
Trent Williams is an American football offensive tackle who was born on July 19, 1988 in Longview, Texas. He currently plays for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League (NFL).
Williams played college football at the University of Oklahoma, where he established himself as one of the top offensive linemen in the country. In 2010, he was selected by the Washington Football Team (formerly known as the Washington Redskins) in the first round of the NFL Draft.
Throughout his career, Williams has established himself as one of the NFL’s premier offensive tackles. Known for his strength, athleticism, and technique, he has earned a reputation as one of the league’s most dominant blockers, and has been selected to multiple Pro Bowls.
In addition to his success on the field, Williams has also faced significant challenges off the field. In 2019, he held out of training camp and missed the entire season due to a dispute with the Washington Football Team over his medical treatment. In 2020, he was traded to the San Francisco 49ers, where he has continued to excel on the field.
Off the field, Williams is known for his philanthropy and his dedication to giving back to his community. He has established the Trent Williams Foundation, which provides resources and support to underprivileged children and families in his home state of Texas.
With his combination of talent, determination, and commitment to improving his community, Trent Williams has established himself as one of the most respected and beloved players in the NFL today. As he continues to grow and develop as a player, he is poised to become one of the league’s biggest stars, and a role model for young athletes everywhere.
Corey Linsley – Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers made a major upgrade to their offensive line by signing Corey Linsley to a long-term deal. Linsley has been one of the best centers in the league over the past few seasons, and he has been a major asset to the Chargers’ offense.
Who is Corey Linsley
Corey Linsley is a professional American football center who was born on July 27, 1991 in Youngstown, Ohio. He is currently playing for the Los Angeles Chargers of the National Football League (NFL).
Linsley played college football at Ohio State University, where he established himself as one of the top offensive linemen in the country. In 2014, he was selected by the Green Bay Packers in the fifth round of the NFL Draft.
Throughout his career, Linsley has established himself as one of the NFL’s most talented and reliable centers. Known for his strength, technique, and intelligence, he has earned a reputation as one of the league’s most effective blockers, and has helped lead his teams to multiple playoff appearances.
In 2021, Linsley signed with the Los Angeles Chargers, where he has continued to excel on the field. He has played a key role in the team’s success, helping to protect their quarterback and open up holes for their running backs.
Off the field, Linsley is known for his community involvement and his dedication to charitable causes. He has established the Linsley Family Foundation, which provides resources and support to underprivileged children and families in his home state of Ohio.
With his combination of talent, work ethic, and dedication to improving his community, Corey Linsley has established himself as one of the most respected and beloved players in the NFL today. As he continues to grow and develop as a player, he is poised to become one of the league’s biggest stars, and a role model for young athletes everywhere.
The Worst Signings:
Jimmy Garoppolo – Detroit Lions
The Lions made a major gamble by signing Jimmy Garoppolo to a huge contract, and so far, the move has not paid off. Garoppolo has been inconsistent and injury-prone, and the Lions have struggled to win games with him at quarterback.
Who is Jimmy Garoppolo
Jimmy Garoppolo is a professional American football quarterback who was born on November 2, 1991 in Arlington Heights, Illinois. He is currently playing for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League (NFL).
Garoppolo played college football at Eastern Illinois University, where he established himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the country. In 2014, he was selected by the New England Patriots in the second round of the NFL Draft.
Throughout his career, Garoppolo has established himself as one of the NFL’s most talented and promising quarterbacks. Known for his accuracy, quick release, and decision-making, he has earned a reputation as one of the league’s most efficient passers, and has helped lead his teams to multiple playoff appearances.
In 2017, Garoppolo was traded to the San Francisco 49ers, where he quickly became the team’s starting quarterback. In his first five games with the team, he led them to five straight victories, helping to turn around a struggling franchise and leading them to the playoffs in 2019.
Off the field, Garoppolo is known for his community involvement and his dedication to charitable causes. He has established the Jimmy Garoppolo Foundation, which provides resources and support to underprivileged children and families in his home state of Illinois.
With his combination of talent, work ethic, and dedication to improving his community, Jimmy Garoppolo has established himself as one of the most exciting young quarterbacks in the NFL today. As he continues to grow and develop as a player, he is poised to become one of the league’s biggest stars, and a beloved figure among fans and teammates alike.
Kyle Fuller – Indianapolis Colts
The Colts signed Kyle Fuller to a big contract in free agency, but he has been a major disappointment so far. Fuller has struggled with injuries and has not been the shutdown corner that the Colts were hoping for.
Who is Kyle Fuller
Kyle Fuller is a professional American football cornerback who was born on February 16, 1992 in Baltimore, Maryland. He is currently playing for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League (NFL).
Fuller played college football at Virginia Tech, where he established himself as one of the top defensive backs in the country. In 2014, he was selected by the Chicago Bears in the first round of the NFL Draft.
Throughout his career, Fuller has established himself as one of the NFL’s most talented and reliable cornerbacks. Known for his speed, agility, and coverage skills, he has earned a reputation as one of the league’s most consistent defenders, and has been selected to multiple Pro Bowls.
In 2021, Fuller signed with the Denver Broncos, where he has continued to excel on the field. He has played a key role in the team’s success, helping lead them to the playoffs in his first season with the team.
Off the field, Fuller is known for his community involvement and his dedication to charitable causes. He has established the Fuller Family Foundation, which provides resources and support to underprivileged children and families in his home state of Maryland.
With his combination of talent, work ethic, and dedication to improving his community, Kyle Fuller has established himself as one of the most exciting young players in the NFL today. As he continues to grow and develop as a player, he is poised to become one of the league’s biggest stars, and a beloved figure among fans and teammates alike.
Kwon Alexander – New Orleans Saints
The Saints signed Kwon Alexander to a big contract in free agency, but he has been a major disappointment so far. Alexander has struggled with injuries and has not been the impact player that the Saints were hoping for.
Who is Kwon Alexander
Kwon Alexander is a professional American football linebacker who was born on August 3, 1994 in Anniston, Alabama. He is currently playing for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League (NFL).
Alexander played college football at Louisiana State University, where he established himself as one of the top linebackers in the country. In 2015, he was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fourth round of the NFL Draft.
Throughout his career, Alexander has established himself as one of the NFL’s most dynamic and versatile linebackers. Known for his speed, agility, and power, he has earned a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable tacklers, and has been selected to multiple Pro Bowls.
In 2019, Alexander signed with the San Francisco 49ers, where he has continued to excel on the field. He has played a key role in the team’s success, helping lead them to the Super Bowl in his first season with the team.
Off the field, Alexander is known for his community involvement and his dedication to charitable causes. He has established the Kwon Alexander Foundation, which provides resources and support to underprivileged children and families in his home state of Alabama.
With his combination of talent, work ethic, and dedication to improving his community, Kwon Alexander has established himself as one of the most exciting young players in the NFL today. As he continues to grow and develop as a player, he is poised to become one of the league’s biggest stars, and a beloved figure among fans and teammates alike.
Leonard Floyd – Chicago Bears
The Bears signed Leonard Floyd to a big contract in free agency, but he has not lived up to expectations so far. Floyd has been inconsistent and has not been the dominant pass rusher that the Bears were hoping for.
Who is Leonard Floyd
Leonard Floyd is a professional American football linebacker who was born on September 8, 1992 in Eastman, Georgia. He is currently playing for the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League (NFL).
Floyd played college football at the University of Georgia, where he established himself as a dominant defensive player. In 2016, he was selected by the Chicago Bears in the first round of the NFL Draft.
Over the course of his career, Floyd has established himself as one of the NFL’s most dynamic linebackers. Known for his speed, agility, and power, he has earned a reputation as one of the league’s most disruptive pass rushers, and has been selected to multiple Pro Bowls.
In 2020, Floyd signed with the Los Angeles Rams, where he has continued to excel on the field. He has played a key role in the team’s success, helping lead them to the playoffs in his first season with the team.
Off the field, Floyd is known for his community involvement and his dedication to charitable causes. He has established the Leonard Floyd Foundation, which provides resources and support to underprivileged children and families in his home state of Georgia.
With his combination of talent, work ethic, and dedication to improving his community, Leonard Floyd has established himself as one of the most exciting young players in the NFL today. As he continues to grow and develop as a player, he is poised to become one of the league’s biggest stars, and a beloved figure among fans and teammates alike.
Jadeveon Clowney – Cleveland Browns
The Browns signed Jadeveon Clowney to a big contract in free agency, but he has not lived up to expectations. Clowney has struggled to stay healthy and has not been the impact player that the Browns were hoping for.
Who is Jadeveon Clowney
Jadeveon Clowney is a professional American football defensive end who was born on February 14, 1993 in Rock Hill, South Carolina. He is currently playing for the Cleveland Browns of the National Football League (NFL).
Clowney played college football at the University of South Carolina, where he established himself as one of the most dominant defensive players in the country. In 2014, he was selected as the first overall pick in the NFL Draft by the Houston Texans.
Throughout his career, Clowney has established himself as one of the most talented and feared defensive players in the NFL. Known for his size, speed, and strength, he has earned a reputation as one of the league’s most disruptive pass rushers, and has been selected to multiple Pro Bowls.
Off the field, Clowney is known for his philanthropic work and his dedication to giving back to his community. He has established the Jadeveon Clowney Help In Time Foundation, which provides resources and support to underprivileged children and families in his home state of South Carolina.
Despite facing injuries and setbacks over the course of his career, Clowney has remained a dominant force on the field, and continues to be one of the NFL’s most exciting and dynamic players. As he continues to grow and develop as a player, he is poised to become one of the league’s biggest stars, and a beloved figure among fans and teammates alike.
Conclusion:
Overall, the 2023 NFL free agency period was full of surprises and big moves. While some signings have paid off for teams, others have been major disappointments. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how these signings continue to play out and which teams come out on top.
FAQ:
Matthew Stafford to the LA Rams was considered the best signing of the period.
Jimmy Garoppolo to the Detroit Lions was considered the worst signing of the period.
Yes, the Packers re-signed running back Aaron Jones to a very reasonable contract, which was considered a major win for the team.
The Cleveland Browns signed Jadeveon Clowney in 2023, but he has not lived up to expectations so far.