NFL execs unfiltered on free agency: Thoughts on Kyler Murray, the bold Rams and all NFC teams
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- The Arizona Cardinals released quarterback Kyler Murray instead of trading him, prioritizing salary cap savings over potential trade value, leaving the QB depth chart with Jacoby Brissett, Gardner Minshew, and Kedon Slovis.
- The Atlanta Falcons' free agency moves were widely criticized by executives as confusing and lacking clear direction, despite signing Tua Tagovailoa at a reasonable price.
- The Carolina Panthers made significant defensive investments, including a $30 million-per-year deal for Jaelan Phillips, signaling a commitment to improving their defense after a poor previous season.
- The Green Bay Packers saw a major exodus of players with a combined $97.6 million in annual salary lost, reflecting a strategy focused on drafting rather than free agency, resulting in one of the largest negative salary differentials.
- The Los Angeles Rams aggressively addressed their secondary by acquiring and signing top cornerback Trent McDuffie to a high-value contract, demonstrating a win-now approach despite trading away draft picks.
