fb-pixelNFL free agency: Patriots moves, how the week unfolded Skip to main content
Live Updates

How the first days of NFL free agency unfolded

Calvin Ridley is signing with the Titans.John Raoux/Associated Press

NFL free agency is finally cooling down. Here’s a look at how the flurry of transactions unfolded.

What moves have the Patriots made?

WATCH: The Pats lost a majority of last season's games. NFL writer Ben Volin offers the keys to a winning season in New England.

NFL free agency 2024: Patriots news and rumors

Click here to refresh | Click here to sign up for Point After, our Patriots newsletter

Falcons send QB Desmond Ridder to Arizona for Rondale Moore — 1:25 p.m.

With Kirk Cousins locked in at quarterback for the Falcons, Atlanta no longer has a need for Desmond Ridder, who just completed his second NFL season.

The Falcons traded Ridder to Arizona in exchange for wide receiver Rondale Moore. Moore had 40 catches for 352 yards and one touchdown last season, his third in the league.

QB Joe Flacco heads to the Colts — 8:45 p.m.

Joe Flacco is heading to the Indianapolis Colts after helping the Cleveland Browns reach the playoffs and winning the AP Comeback Player of the Year Award. Flacco and the Colts agreed on a one-year deal for $4.5 million guaranteed, a person familiar with the terms told The Associated Press on Wednesday.

FEATURED VIDEO

Flacco, a former Super Bowl MVP with Baltimore, was home in New Jersey with his family when Cleveland called him in November. He went 4-1 in five starts and passed for over 300 yards in four straight games with 13 touchdown passes.

He wanted to stay in Cleveland to back up Deshaun Watson but the Browns didn’t make him an offer, agent Joe Linta told the AP. Instead, the Browns are bringing in Jameis Winston to serve as Watson’s backup.

LB Eric Kendricks switches from Niners to Cowboys — 8:13 p.m.

Free agent linebacker Eric Kendricks has agreed to join the Dallas Cowboys after initially choosing the San Francisco 49ers, a person with knowledge of the deal said Wednesday night.

Kendricks will have a reunion with new Dallas defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, who was the 32-year-old’s head coach in Minnesota for his first seven years in the NFL. Kendricks spent nine seasons with the Vikings before playing for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023.

Advertisement

Commanders signing LB Bobby Wagner — 6:25 p.m.

Six-time All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner is heading to Washington to join the Commanders on a one-year deal worth up to $8.5 million. Wagner, who turns 34 this summer, led the NFL with 183 tackles last season.

Patriots signing defensive lineman Armon Watts — 6:00 p.m.

By Christopher Price

The Patriots added defensive tackle depth on Wednesday with the signing of Armon Watts, according to his agents.

Watts, 6 feet 5 inches and 307 pounds, has played five seasons in the league: three with Minnesota, one with Chicago, and one with Pittsburgh. Last year with the Steelers, the 27-year-old played in 15 games and finished with six solo tackles.

A former sixth-round pick out of Arkansas in 2019, Watts projects to serve as a backup for the likes of Christian Barmore along the interior of the defensive line.

Nick Folk going to Titans — 5:45 p.m.

Former Patriots kicker Nick Folk is joining Ridley with the Titans.

Folk spent four seasons with New England, making 89.3 percent of his kicks for the Patriots.

Calvin Ridley signing with Titans, not Patriots — 5:30 p.m.

By Christopher Price

The Patriots’ decision to pursue veteran wide receiver Calvin Ridley has apparently come up short.

New England was reportedly in the mix for the free-agent receiver, but instead, he’s decided to sign with the Titans on a four-year, $92 million deal, according to reports.

The 6-foot-1, 190-pound Ridley was a first-round pick of the Falcons in 2018, and has spent five seasons in the league. Last year, the 29-year-old had 76 catches for 1,016 yards and eight touchdowns for the Jaguars. In his career, he has 324 career receptions for 4,358 yards and 36 scores.

The Patriots, who have agreed to deals that will see wide receivers Kendrick Bourne and Jalen Reagor return, are likely still on the lookout for additions at the position. Cincinnati’s Tee Higgins has reportedly requested a trade, while Marquise Brown, Tyler Boyd, and Odell Beckham Jr. are among the free agents still on the market.

Advertisement

Raiders release QB Garoppolo, Dolphins release CB Howard — 5:00 p.m.

The Las Vegas Raiders kicked off the start of the new league year by releasing quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and receiver Hunter Renfrow to give the new regime more room to operate under the salary cap.

The Raiders also released backup quarterback Brian Hoyer and defensive tackle Jerry Tillery on Wednesday, just minutes after the start of the 2024 league year.

The Miami Dolphins released cornerback Xavien Howard on Wednesday, parting with their longest-tenured player.

Howard had 331 tackles and 95 passes deflected in eight seasons with the Dolphins, who selected him at No. 38 in the 2016 NFL draft.

Chiefs restructuring Patrick Mahomes’s contract — 2:30 p.m.

The Kansas City Chiefs have restructured quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ contract, giving the Super Bowl champions some much-needed salary cap space.

By restructuring the contract, which would have counted more than $58 million against the cap for the upcoming season, the Chiefs created more than $21 million to use elsewhere. That could include a much-publicized pursuit of help at wide receiver, their need for a new left tackle to protect Mahomes’ blind side, or in re-signing their own free agents.

Chargers release receiver Mike Williams, restructure Khalil Mack’s contract — 2:15 p.m.

On Wednesday afternoon, the Chargers found themselves nearly $25 million over the salary cap for next season.

To help alleviate that crunch, the Chargers released wide receiver Mike Williams, saving $20 million in cap space and making Williams a free agent. The Chargers became cap compliant with the move and will not have to make any more cost-cutting decisions, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Williams appeared in just three games this season. The former first-round draft pick tore his ACL in Week 3 against the Vikings. Across the first three games of the season, Williams made 19 catches for 249 yards. He’s recorded two 1,000-yard seasons in his seven-year career, in 2019 and 2021.

Advertisement

Los Angeles also restructured the contract of linebacker Khalil Mack. Mack — who was fourth in the league last season with a career-high 17 sacks — had a cap number of $38.1 million before agreeing to restructure. He set the Chargers’ single-game mark with six against Las Vegas on Oct. 1.

Eagles and kicker Jake Elliott agree on historic contract extension — 1:15 p.m.

Jake Elliott made 93.8% (30 out of 32) of his field goal attempts this year, and the Eagles have rewarded him with a major contract extension. He also converted on all but one extra point attempt (45 out of 46).

The four-year, $24 million deal ties Elliott with Justin Tucker for the highest-paid kicker in NFL history.

WR Mack Hollins heads to Buffalo — 10:30 a.m.

Expect ex-BC RB AJ Dillon to leave Green Bay — 9:45 a.m.

The Chargers need to move on from some players for cap reasons — 9:20 a.m.

The LA Chargers have a cap-space problem. They’re tracking to be over by $25 million, according to ESPN.

With players like Khalil Mack, Joey Bosa, Mike Williams, and Keenan Allen all on contracts that would be a hit of more than $30 million to the Chargers’ cap, expect one of those players gone by the end of the day.

Anfernee Jennings is staying with the Patriots — 8:00 a.m.

By Christopher Price

The Patriots and Anfernee Jennings have reportedly agreed to terms on a three-year deal which allows the linebacker to return to New England.

Jennings, who will turn 27 in May, was a third-round pick of the Patriots in 2020. In 14 games last season, he had 66 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and a fumble recovery.

According to NFL Media, the deal is worth $12 million and can reach as high as $24 million with incentives.

Jennings is the latest in what is becoming a long line of players from last year’s 4-13 team to agree to deals that bring them back for the 2024 season prior to the official start of free agency Wednesday afternoon. It’s a group that includes outside linebacker Josh Uche, wide receivers Jalen Reagor and Kendrick Bourne, as well as tight end Hunter Henry, and offensive lineman Mike Onwenu. In addition, safety Kyle Dugger was hit with the transition tag, which will bring him back as well.

Advertisement

Rating the Patriots’ moves so far — 7:00 a.m.

Through the two-day negotiating period ahead of the new league year, the Patriots’ roster has started to take shape under de facto general manager Eliot Wolf and coach Jerod Mayo.

Let’s take a look at their moves. Read more here.

Pharaoh Brown signs with the Seahawks — 10:57 p.m.

The 29-year-old was a strong candidate to return, given his versatility and affordability. But the tight end found a better situation in Seattle, where he will likely have a larger role in the passing game. — Nicole Yang

Patriots add tight end Austin Hooper — 10:39 p.m.

New England offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt gets to work again with a tight end whom he coached for two seasons in Cleveland.

Josh Uche paid a price to stay in New England — 9:32 p.m.

NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that Josh Uche turned down more money to return to the Patriots.

Dolphins get linebacking help with Shaquil Barrett — 8:05 p.m.

The Dolphins agreed to terms with veteran Shaquil Barrett on a one-year contract worth up to $9 million, his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, confirmed.

Barrett, 31, spent the past five seasons with the Buccaneers, where he had 45 sacks, 15 forced fumbles and three interceptions. The inside linebacker fills an immediate need at the position, as pass rushers Bradley Chubb (ACL) and Jaelan Phillips (Achilles’ tendon) could miss time early in the season as they work their way back from serious injuries — though the team hopes to have them back in time. — Associated Press

Patrick Mahomes restructures contract — 7:53 p.m.

Quarterback Patrick Mahomes helped out the Chiefs by amending the terms of his contract, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, meaning Kansas City could become more active in free agency.

Diontae Johnson, Donte Jackson get traded for each other — 7:29 p.m.

This isn’t a free agent signing, but it’s still players changing teams.

The Steelers reportedly sent Johnson, a wide receiver who caught 51 passes last season for 717 yards and five touchdowns, to the Panthers for Jackson, a cornerback who failed to register an interception last year after tallying 14 in his first five seasons.

Advertisement

Chauncey Gardner-Johnson back with Eagles — 7:24 p.m.

The 26-year-old nickelback/safety returns to Philadelphia after spending last season with the Lions.

In his lone season with the Eagles, Gardner-Johnson helped the team reach the Super Bowl.

What’s next for Jimmy Garoppolo? — 7:00 p.m.

Former Patriots quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo may be looking for a job.

The signal-caller is expected to be cut by the Las Vegas Raiders, according to The Athletic. It comes on the heels of Garoppolo getting suspended for the first two games of the 2024 season for violating the performance-enhancing substances policy, which also voided any guaranteed money on his three-year deal.

Former Chiefs LB Willie Gay signs deal with Saints — 6:42 p.m.

DE Danielle Hunter signs two-year deal with Texans — 6:40 p.m.

Jordan Poyer leaves one AFC East team for another — 6:37 p.m.

Jordan Poyer, who has played for the Bills since 2017, is moving on. But he’ll still see plenty of his old teammates.

The safety is signing a one-year deal to join the Dolphins, per ESPN.

Kenny Moore becomes NFL’s highest-paid nickel CB — 6:35 p.m.

The Colts and cornerback Kenny Moore II agreed to a three-year deal worth $30 million. Instead of becoming a free agent Wednesday, Moore becomes the NFL’s highest-paid nickel cornerback.

He entered the league as an undrafted rookie with New England in 2017, but has become a fixture in Indy’s defense since being claimed off waivers in 2017. — Associated Press

Where will Calvin Ridley land? — 6:30 p.m.

The Patriots reportedly remain in the mix for a proven No. 1 wide receiver in free agency, but New England might need to pony up plenty of cash if it wants to “swing big” and get Calvin Ridley to put pen to paper on a contract.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Patriots are “pushing to sign” Ridley, but sources believe Ridley currently prefers to return to his previous team the Jacksonville Jaguars and has been discussing a deal with them. — Conor Ryan

Raekwon Davis signs with Colts — 6:05 p.m.

Simone Biles’s husband heads to Chicago — 6:00 p.m.

Jonathan Owens, a defensive back who broke out in his only season with the Packers, is signing a two-year deal with the Bears.

His wife, superstar gymnast Simone Biles, might enjoy visits to Chicago over trips to Green Bay.

Patriots safety Jalen Mills leaving for Giants — 5:45 p.m.

New England is losing a piece of its secondary, with Jalen Mills reportedly signing a one-year deal with the Giants.

Mills played multiple roles in the Patriots secondary in recent seasons, deployed mostly as a cornerback over his first two years in New England but playing safety at times in 2023. His playing time was significantly reduced this past season, as he played just 40 percent of the Patriots’ defensive snaps.

LB Lavonte David staying in Tampa Bay — 5:40 p.m.

Patriots re-sign three players — 4:15 p.m.

The Patriots announced that they’re re-signing a trio of players: linebacker Christian Elliss, quarterback Nathan Rourke, and offensive lineman Tyrone Wheatley Jr.

Elliss played the most significant role of the three in 2023, playing nearly 75 percent of New England’s special teams snaps after he was claimed off waivers in December.

DeVante Parker is headed to the Eagles — 3:55 p.m.

The Eagles and DeVante Parker agreed to a one-year, $4.69 million fully guaranteed contract.

The Patriots, for whom Parker played the past two seasons, will pay all but $1.2 million of that salary. Parker posted 33 catches and 394 yards in 13 games for New England last season.

Josh Uche is staying with the Patriots — 3:45 p.m.

By Christopher Price

Another familiar face is back with the Patriots.

A day after offensive lineman Mike Onwenu agreed to a deal that would keep him in Foxborough, outside linebacker Josh Uche has agreed to a new deal with New England, according to a league source.

Uche, 25, has spent four seasons in the NFL, all of them with the Patriots. The Michigan product has 18.5 career sacks in his career, including 11.5 in 2022.

Drew Lock is headed to the New York Giants — 2:10 p.m.

The Giants secured a candidate to back up Daniel Jones, signing former Seahawks quarterback Drew Lock to a one-year, guaranteed $5 million deal.

Baltimore makes a splash by signing Derrick Henry — 12:45 p.m.

The Ravens signed coveted free agent running back Derrick Henry to a two-year, $16 million deal, which includes $9 million fully guaranteed in the first year.

Henry, 30, has spent his entire eight-year career with the Titans and is a four-time Pro Bowler. He was the 2020 Offensive Player of the Year, has 90 career rushing touchdowns, 9,502 career rushing yards, and was the NFL rushing yards leader and rushing touchdowns leader in 2019 and 2020.

The Ravens desperately needed help in the running back room, as starter Gus Edwards agreed to terms with the Chargers on Monday. J.K. Dobbins is also a free agent and played in just nine games over the past three seasons because of different lower-body injuries.

Darnell Mooney will join Kirk Cousins in Atlanta — 11:50 a.m.

One day after signing quarterback Kirk Cousins, the Falcons have added a new receiver for him to target.

Darnell Mooney, who has spent his four-year career in Chicago, has reportedly agreed to a three-year, $39 million contract ($26 million guaranteed) with the Falcons. Mooney had 414 yards and 1 touchdown on 31 receptions for the Bears this season.

Mooney’s strongest statistical season came in 2021, his second year in the NFL, when he recorded 1,055 yards and 4 touchdowns on 81 receptions.

RB Nyheim Hines is headed to Cleveland — 11:35 a.m.

The Browns beefed up their running back room with the addition of Buffalo’s Nyheim Hines. He’ll join Nick Chubb, who was out for most of the 2023 season with a knee injury, and Jerome Ford in Cleveland.

Former Patriot Mike Gesicki signs with Cincinnati — 11:10 a.m.

The tight end spent last season with New England, totaling 244 yards and two touchdowns on 29 catches. Gesicki, 29, reportedly signed a one-year deal with the Bengals worth up to $3.25 million.

His time in New England marked a significant drop off from his production with Miami, where he spent the first five seasons of his career. He set career highs in targets (112), receptions (73), and receiving yards (780) in 2021, and he averaged 11.3 yards per catch in 2022.

Marcus Mariota signs with Washington — 10:45 a.m.

It’s a one-year deal for the quarterback, who spent last season with the Eagles.

The Commanders also have Sam Howell on the roster, and could add another QB through the draft — they hold the No. 2 pick.

Will Zeke come back? — 10:00 a.m.

Per a league source, the Patriots have not had conversations with running back Zeke Elliott about bringing him back for 2024. That could change in the future — the free agent landscape can change very quickly.

But right now, that’s where the two sides stand. — Christopher Price

No offer for Uche: Source — 9:45 a.m.

Per a league source, the Patriots have not made a contract offer to OLB Josh Uche in advance of free agency. — Christopher Price

Volin’s analysis: Patriots minimize fireworks, and it’s absolutely the right course of action — 9:15 a.m.

By Ben Volin

The Patriots didn’t launch many fireworks on the first day of NFL free agency under Eliot Wolf and Jerod Mayo.

It was a sign that the Patriots’ new bosses might know what they’re doing.

While the Falcons doled out $100 million to Kirk Cousins, and the Eagles added Saquon Barkley, and the Steelers got Russell Wilson, the Patriots didn’t aim too high. They re-signed a few of their own players, and added modest free agents like quarterback Jacoby Brissett, running back Antonio Gibson, and right tackle Chukwuma Okorafor.

It’s absolutely the right course for the 2024 Patriots. They have cash to burn, as Mayo said earlier this offseason, but there’s no need to go through all of it now.

Read the rest here.

A day after being cut by GB, Aaron Jones stays in NFC North — 8:55 a.m.

Former Packers running back Aaron Jones will sign with the Vikings, according to multiple reports.

It’s a one-year deal.

Bills re-up with DT — 7:45 a.m.

Sam Darnold to sign with Vikings — 1:30 a.m.

With Kirk Cousins getting the bag to sign with Atlanta, the Vikings are in need of a quarterback.

Enter Sam Darnold.

The former Jets and Panthers signal-caller who spent the 2023 season with the 49ers will sign a one-year deal to join Minnesota.

Titans add LB Murray — 11:55 p.m.

Another 2020 first-round pick is on the move as the Titans agree to terms on a two-year, deal with former Chargers linebacker Kenneth Murray. The contract is worth between $15.5 and $18 million, according to the NFL Network.

Murray was selected 23rd overall out of Oklahoma and has started 53 games over the last four seasons, including 31 over the past two years. He had 107 tackles (79 solo), 7 tackles for a loss, 4 passes defensed, 3 sacks, and an interception while playing 94 percent of Los Angeles’s snaps last season.

Jets find Rodgers’s backup — 11:45 p.m.

As the first day of NFL free agency wound down, the Jets signed a veteran backup for Aaron Rodgers, agreeing to terms with journeyman Tyrod Taylor.

Taylor started five games for the Giants last season, throwing for 1,341 yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions with a 64.4 completion percentage. He’s played for the Ravens, Bills, Browns, Chargers, and Texans, making 58 starts during a 13-year career.

Panthers add G Lewis on 4-year deal — 10:45 p.m.

Left guard Damien Lewis, the Seahawks’ longest tenured starting offensive lineman, is trading coasts, agreeing to a four-year, $53 million deal with the Panthers, according to Bleacher Report.

Lewis was a four-year starter in Seattle, the last three at left guard. He committed just four penalties and posted a 97.2 pass-block efficiency rating last season while starting 16 of 17 games.

Dolphins replace Williams with Brewer at center — 10:30 p.m.

The Dolphins agreed to sign former Titans center Aaron Brewer to a three-year deal worth $21 million, a person familiar with the negotiations told the Associated Press.

Brewer will likely replace Connor Williams, Miami’s starting center for the past two seasons who is now a free agent. Williams was Pro Football Focus’s top-rated center in 2023 before suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament in December.

Brewer, 26, started every game the past two seasons and has experience at center and guard. He entered the NFL in 2020 as an undrafted free agent out of Texas State.

Bengals will release RB Mixon — 10:10 p.m.

After seven seasons in Cincinnati, the Bengals are moving on from running back Joe Mixon. Mixon had four 1,000-yard seasons and 49 touchdowns for the Bengals, helping them reach a Super Bowl in 2022.

Former Colts and Bills running back Zack Moss is signing a two-year, $8 million deal with the Bengals, while Mixon hits free agency at age 27.

Texans sign Chiefs kicker Townsend — 9:50 p.m.

Former Chiefs kicker Tommy Townsend has agreed to a two-year, $6 million deal with the Texans, leaving Matt Araiza as the only punter on Kansas City’s roster.

No talks with Elliott so far — 9:45 p.m.

According to Christopher Price, the Patriots have not had conversations about bringing back running back Ezekiel Elliott in 2024.

Elliott, a three-time Pro Bowler and one-time All-Pro with the Cowboys, ran for 642 yards and three touchdowns on 184 carries in his one season with the Patriots. The 28-year-old also caught 51 balls for 313 yards and two scores. He started the final five games after starter Rhamondre Stevenson went down a high ankle sprain in Week 13.

So far in free agency, the Patriots reached an agreement with former Commanders running back Antonio Gibson. Stevenson is entering the final year of his contract.

WR Reagor returning to Patriots — 9:30 p.m.

After earlier coming to an agreement with Kendrick Bourne on Sunday, the Patriots are reportedly bringing back another member of their 2023 receiving corps, Jalen Reagor, on a one-year deal.

The former first-round pick of the Eagles caught seven passes for 138 yards in 11 games (one start) for the Patriots after being signed in August after he was waived by the Vikings.

Reagor, taken 21st overall in the 2020 NFL Draft, also served as a kick returner for New England, bringing one back 98 yards against the Bills.

Patriots reportedly add another former Brown — 9:00 p.m.

The Patriots have reportedly agreed to a deal with former Browns reserve linebacker Sione Takitaki to a two-year, $6.5 million contract that maxes out at $10 million with incentives.

Takitaki was a third-round pick by the Browns out of BYU in 2019, but the 28-year-old has never started more than 12 games in his five-year career, making seven starts in 15 appearances in 2023. He played 61 percent of the Browns’ defensive snaps last year, down from a career-high 65 percent in 2022. He also has experience on special teams.

He made 65 tackles (45 solo) with two sacks and one interception last year, giving him 268 tackles (157 solo), four sacks, and two picks in 72 career games (36 starts).

Patriots bring back old friend Jacoby Brissett — 8:25 p.m.

The Patriots are bringing back one of their former draft picks, agreeing to sign Jacoby Brissett, who started two games as a rookie in 2016 after New England selected him in the third round of the NFL Draft.

According to Ben Volin it’s a one-year deal worth between $8 million and $12 million.

Brissett was traded to the Colts in 2017 for wide receiver Phillip Dorsett, then has bounced around to Cleveland, Miami, and Washington. Last year he appeared in just three games with the Commanders, completing 18 of 23 passes for 224 yards, three touchdowns, and no picks. He started 11 games for the Browns in 2022, going 4-7.

He’s 18-30 as a starter over his eight-year career and has 10,574 passing yards, 51 touchdowns, 23 interceptions, and a 61.3 completion percentage.

Brissett, 31, could serve as a bridge quarterback if the Patriots select a signal-caller with the No. 3 pick in next month’s draft.

Seahawks re-sign Fant for two years — 7:55 p.m.

After losing Will Dissly to a free agency agreement earlier in the day, the Seahawks locked down tight end Noah Fant with a two-year, $21 million contract. The 26-year-old caught 32 passes for 414 yards last year. He has 2,805 receiving yards and 14 TD passes in five seasons with the Broncos and Seahawks. He was acquired by Seattle in the Russell Wilson trade.

Allen helps Bills open up cap space — 7:50 p.m.

Josh Allen reworked his contract with the Bills, reducing his 2024 cap charge to $30.56 million and opening up $16.7 million in cap space for Buffalo, according to ESPN.

Patriots re-sign OL Michael Onwenu — 7:30 p.m.

Offensive lineman Michael Onwenu, who was a major priority for the Patriots this offseason, is staying in New England.

NFL Network reports he is signing a three-year, $57 million deal that includes $38 million in guaranteed money.

Onwenu will also get a $22.5 million signing bonus. The 26-year-old handled his own negotiations after firing his agent.

“It’s no secret we want to try to keep Mike,” de facto GM Eliot Wolf at the NFL Scouting Combine. “Mike’s really smart. He’s introspective and he’s thoughtful. He knows what he wants, which is always good when you’re dealing with a player. And he’s certainly someone that we view as a cornerstone for us.”

Lions bring in DE Davenport — 7:25 p.m.

The former first-round pick of the Saints, who spent last season with the Vikings, is headed to Detroit on a one-year deal worth at least $6.5 million and up to $10.5 million.

RB Ekeler to Commanders on 2-year deal — 7:00 p.m.

After seven years with the Chargers, running back Austin Ekeler is headed to Washington on a two-year deal worth up to $11.43 million, according to reports. He scored 38 touchdowns over the 2021-22 seasons.

The Commanders had an opening for a third-down back behind after Antonio Gibson signed with the Patriots.

Titans give CB Awuzie $23m guaranteed — 6:50 p.m.

The Titans have inked former Bengals cornerback Chidobe Awukie to a three-year, $36 million contract, $23 million of which is guaranteed. He will join former Bengals offensive coordinator Brian Callahan in Tennessee, where he was hired as head coach.

Trade: Brian Burns heads to Giants — 6:30 p.m.

Brian Burns will become the second-highest paid defensive end in the league after the Panthers trade him to the Giants, who will give him a five-year deal worth $150 million, according to the NFL Network.

In five seasons in the league, Burns has developed into a top pass rusher. He’s totaled 46 sacks and 246 combined tackles en route to two Pro Bowl appearances.

G Jermaine Eluemunor signs with Giants — 6:30 p.m.

Former Raiders guard Jermaine Eluemunor will sign a two-year, $14 million deal with the Giants, according to ESPN.

CB Davis traded from Bucs — 6:15 p.m.

Cornerback Carlton Davis, who won a Super Bowl alongside Tom Brady in Tampa Bay in 2021, will be sent to the Detroit Lions.

The Buccaneers are also sending two picks, their 2024 and 2025 sixth-rounders, in the deal. The Lions are sending this year’s third-round pick.

DE Marcus Davenport signs one-year deal with Lions — 6:00 p.m.

Marcus Davenport, who signed with the Vikings last year and played just four games before suffering a high-ankle sprain and going on IR, will remain in the NFC North.

The defensive end is signing a one-year deal with the Lions, according to NFL Network.

Browns keeping LB Smith — 5:45 p.m.

Za’Darius Smith, in his first season with the Browns, recorded 27 tackles and 5½ sacks. He’s back with Cleveland on a two-year deal.

Former Patriots linebacker Mack Wilson signs with Arizona — 5:40 p.m.

Mack Wilson, who spent the past two seasons with the Patriots, is joining the Arizona Cardinals.

Wilson, who appeared in all 17 games in both seasons in New England, totaled 39 solo tackles and five sacks during his tenure.

Panthers LB Frankie Luvu signs 3-year deal with Washington — 5:30 p.m.

Chargers sign Seahawks TE Will Dissly — 5:30 p.m.

Will Dissly, who was released by Seattle last week, has found a new home.

The Los Angeles Chargers will sign the 27-year-old to a three-year deal, per the NFL Network.

Linemen get locked up — 5:20 p.m.

Wait, never mind: K Lutz to stay with Broncos — 5:05 p.m.

Broncos kicker Wil Lutz had agreed to join the Jaguars earlier Monday. Now, he’s changed his mind, according to multiple reports, and will remain in Denver.

QB Gardner Minshew heads to Las Vegas — 4:50 p.m.

The Raiders have a quarterback battle shaping up. Gardner Minshew, most recently with the Colts, will sign a two-year with the Raiders. Aidan O’Connell and Anthony Brown are the only QBs already on the roster.

Details on Josh Jacobs’s Packers deal — 4:45 p.m.

NFL Network reports the running back is signing a four-year, $48 million deal.

Ravens FA safety Geno Stone to sign with Bengals — 4:35 p.m.

Geno Stone, who was drafted by Baltimore in the seventh round in 2020, is getting paid.

The 24-year-old had seven picks last season, and had expressed interest in finding a team that would give him a contract he felt he deserved.

“At the end of the day, Baltimore is always home, but business is business,” he told NFL Network last month. “You know that being in this league this long. I’ve been through it all, especially my rookie year. I just want to be somewhere I’m appreciated, you know, who wants me and for me to be a starter, whatever it may be. I just want my value to be there.”

Patriots releasing WR DeVante Parker — 4:30 p.m.

The Patriots are releasing wide receiver DeVante Parker, according to his agent Jimmy Gould.

The 31-year-old Parker had two years remaining on his contract.

Cutting Parker before June 1 creates $6.32 million in dead money, with just $143,332 in additional salary cap space. The numbers are not favorable, but the Patriots couldn’t find any willing trade partners and decided to cut bait sooner rather than later. Read more from Nicole Yang.

Packers signing safety Xavier McKinney — 4:00 p.m.

The Packers made another big move, with Green Bay signing safety Xavier McKinney away from the Giants on a four-year, $68 million deal according to reports.

Panthers giving G Robert Hunt $100 million deal — 3:30 p.m.

The Panthers are making a big investment to protect young quarterback Bryce Young, reportedly signing free agent guard Robert Hunt to five-year, $100 million contract to poach him from the Dolphins.

Young was sacked 62 times this season, tied for the sixth-most in NFL history.

Cardinals, Vikings add on defense — 3:20 p.m.

The Vikings went back to Houston for another defensive player, adding linebacker Blake Cashman to a three-year deal according to NFL Network.

The Raiders added Christian Wilkins but lost DT Bilal Nichols to the Cardinals on a three-year deal, per ESPN.

Patriots signing RB Antonio Gibson — 2:45 p.m.

By Christopher Price

The Patriots are signing running back Antonio Gibson.

The 6-foot-2, 220-pounder out of Memphis has been in the league four seasons, all with Washington. The 25-year-old had his best season in 2021, when he rushed for 1,037 yards and seven touchdowns on 258 carries, while adding 42 catches for 294 yards and three receiving touchdowns.

Gibson joins a crowded backfield in New England, with veteran Rhamondre Stevenson leading the way and youngster Kevin Harris working as a backup. Ezekiel Elliott, who is slated to be a free agent, could also figure into the mix again in 2024 if he returns.

Giants RB Saquon Barkley jumps to rival Eagles — 2:45 p.m.

After years of unsuccessful extension attempts, the Giants lost running back Saquon Barkley to the rival Eagles, according to reports.

Barkley will head to Philadelphia on a three-year, $37.75 million contract that could be worth up to $46.75 million and includes $26 million guaranteed.

Barkley, the No. 2 pick in 2018, made two Pro Bowls and was the 2018 Offensive Rookie of the Year, but an ACL tear in 2020 hampered his development. He had a bounce back 2022 with 1,312 rushing yards in 10 touchdowns, but had a down 2023 with the rest of New York’s offense.

Philadelphia moved quickly to replace D’Andre Swift, who bolted to the Bears on Monday.

QB Kirk Cousins signing with Falcons — 2:30 p.m.

One of the biggest free agency dominoes appears to have fallen, with Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins reportedly joining the Atlanta Falcons.

Cousins was the quarterback on the market as a four-time Pro Bowler, but will turn 36 before the season and is coming off an Achilles’ tear at the end of last season.

ESPN is reporting a four-year deal for Cousins worth $180 million. Cousins threw for 2,331 yards and 18 touchdowns in eight games last season before going down with injury.

Cousins will be surrounded with plenty of talent in the Falcons offense with Atlanta’s recent first-round draft picks, including running back Bijan Robinson, tight end Kyle Pitts, and wide receiver Drake London.

Eagles add pass rusher Bryce Huff, Rams signing TE Colby Parkinson — 2:00 p.m.

Two significant moves dropped right at 2 p.m., with the Eagles reportedly adding Jets pass rusher Bryce Huff — who had a career-high 10 sacks last season — and the Rams nabbing tight end Colby Parkinson from the division rival Seahawks.

Huff will sign a three-year, $51 million deal, making him the highest non-QB undrafted free agent in NFL history.

Parkinson will get $22.5 million over three years from Los Angeles.

Ex-Patriot Gunner Olszewski stays with Giants — 1:45 p.m.

Former Patriots special teamer Gunner Olszewski will stay with the Giants on a one-year deal, according to reports.

Jaguars signing WR Gabe Davis, a Patriots target — 1:40 p.m.

The Jaguars are reportedly signing wide receiver Gabe Davis to a three-year deal. Davis caught 45 passes for 746 yards and seven touchdowns last season.

According to Fox Sports’ Henry McKenna, the Patriots were one of the teams interested in Davis’s services in free agency.

DT Christian Wilkins signing huge deal with Raiders — 1:30 p.m.

The Raiders made a big splash to bolster their defensive line, as Las Vegas is signing Dolphins defensive tackle Christian Wilkins to a four-year, $110 million deal — with nearly $85 million guaranteed — according to ESPN.

Wilkins was getting plenty of buzz this week as a possibility for one of the biggest free agent deals as an interior disruptor who has a career-high nine sacks this season.

Titans add RB Tony Pollard — 1:00 p.m.

Another speedy back is on the move with the Titans reportedly signing Cowboys running back Tony Pollard to a three-year, $24 million deal that mirrors the contract the Bears are giving D’Andre Swift.

Pollard rushed for over 1,000 yards for a second consecutive season in Dallas as he took over for Ezekiel Elliott as the Cowboys’ lead back.

Vikings signing pass rusher Jonathan Greenard to big deal — 1:00 p.m.

The Vikings made a big move to bolster their pass rush, poaching Jonathan Greenard away from the Texans on a four-year, $76 million deal. Greenard had an excellent 2023, leading Houston’s defense with a career-high 12 ½ sacks.

It’s unclear whether Minnesota will look to retain its own star pass rusher, Danielle Hunter, who is a free agent after another Pro Bowl year with 16 ½ sacks.

Bills re-sign star tackle Dion Dawkins — 12:25 p.m.

The Bills are keeping hold of Pro Bowl left tackle Dion Dawkins, re-signing their star lineman to a three-year, $60.5 million contract to protect star quarterback Josh Allen.

Dawkins has made three consecutive Pro Bowls as a crucial piece of Buffalo’s offensive line.

Bears sign RB D’Andre Swift from Eagles — 12:15 p.m.

The Bears agreed to the first significant deal after the noon negotiating window opened, reportedly adding Eagles running back D’Andre Swift on a three-year, $24 million deal.

Swift put up a career-best 1,049 yards in his lone season in Philadelphia, having joined the Eagles in a trade from Detroit last April.

A name to keep an eye on: Jacoby Brissett —11:20 a.m.

By Ben Volin

We have already used a lot of ink on the Patriots’ quarterback situation, so no need to rehash it all. In all likelihood, and with Mac Jones being traded to the Jaguars, they will draft a quarterback with the No. 3 pick and sign a veteran bridge option. The only real question is if they keep Bailey Zappe or Nathan Rourke as the third QB.

For the veteran, the Patriots have many options — Kirk Cousins, Justin Fields, Jimmy Garoppolo, and Ryan Tannehill are among the top names available — but one former Brown fits in nicely.

A league source said the Patriots have shown real interest in Jacoby Brissett, who started 11 games for the Browns in 2022. Van Pelt loved coaching Brissett, per the source, and the Patriots view Brissett as a hard worker who can be a good role model for the rookie and help establish a positive culture in the locker room. Brissett may not be the most talented quarterback available, but he’s going to put football first, and he’s not going to pout if he gets benched for a rookie, two important traits for that role.

If Brissett doesn’t come to New England, then Garoppolo, Tannehill, or Fields, who has to be acquired by trade, could be fall-back options. Josh Dobbs, who spent last training offseason and training camp with the Browns, is another option.

Bucs K, Eagles OT sticking around — 11:05 a.m.

QBs aside, the Patriots have options — 10:30 a.m.

The Patriots’ offense was ghastly for much of last season, as a mixture of ineffective play, health issues, and poor matchups combined to create a mess. So how to fix things for 2024?

If the Patriots choose to go the free agent route, here are 10 non-quarterbacks for them to consider, ranked by potential scheme fit, cap considerations, and intangibles.

WR Tee Higgins wants out of Cincinnati — 10:10 a.m.

ESPN reports Bengals star receiver Tee Higgins is requesting a trade.

What has changed since Bill Belichick left? Collaboration is the new ‘Patriot Way.’ — 10:00 a.m.

By Nicole Yang

The same word keeps popping up about the new setup in Foxborough.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft used it when discussing the hierarchical structure for personnel decisions. Coach Jerod Mayo used it when describing his plan for hiring coordinators. And de facto general manager Eliot Wolf used it when explaining the revamped grading system for draft prospects.

In the past two months, the Patriots have made something clear: They’re all about collaboration.

What deals are already done? — 9:45 a.m.

While the negotiation window doesn’t start until Monday for free agency, some teams have already locked up key players — or dealt away some surplus options — ahead of time.

The biggest deal of the offseason thus far saw the Chiefs lock up All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones on a massive five-year, $160 million deal to retain the centerpiece of their Super Bowl-winning defense.

The Buccaneers managed to hang on to star receiver Mike Evans, who inked a two-year, $52 million contract to stay in Tampa.

New England re-signed tight end Hunter Henry, one of the lone bright spots on a woeful 2023 offense, to a three-year deal.

A pair of significant trades will also be completed at the start of the league year Wednesday, headlined by the Patriots flipping quarterback Mac Jones to the Jaguars for a late-round pick.

The Broncos decided to punt on a former No. 15 pick of their own, sending wide receiver Jerry Jeudy to the Browns to cut costs after Jeudy’s underwhelming start in Denver.

Report: Pats special teamer Chris Board out — 9:40 a.m.

What to expect in NFL free agency — 9:30 a.m.

The beginning of free agency Monday will launch an exciting week in the NFL. Dozens of players will join new teams, and hundreds of millions of dollars will be awarded.

But there’s a downside to free agency. Before dozens of players can be added, dozens of players were released this past week, with more than $350 million in salary cut as of Thursday morning, including more than $100 million at safety.

The belt tightening isn’t done. Teams don’t need to be compliant with the salary cap until Wednesday at 4 p.m., and as of Friday morning, the Dolphins, Chargers, Bills, Ravens, Broncos, and Saints were over the cap.

The deals will start Monday at noon. Here’s what you need to know.

Amin Touri can be reached at amin.touri@globe.com. Katie McInerney can be reached at katie.mcinerney@globe.com. Follow her on Instagram at @katiemac.sports. Nicole Yang can be reached at nicole.yang@globe.com.Follow her @nicolecyang. Christopher Price can be reached at christopher.price@globe.com. Follow him on Bluesky at christopherprice.bsky.social. Emma Healy can be reached at emma.healy@globe.com or on X @ByEmmaHealy.