The Tennessee Titans made a splash by leapfrogging over the rest of the NFL when they landed Calvin Ridley, signing him to a four-year, $92 million deal. Throughout the entire legal tampering period, Tennessee wasn’t officially linked with star receivers, but it managed to enhance its firepower against allegations, particularly against the strong arm of Lewis. Ridley, one of its key signings, gives the Titans an extra boost and places Lewis as one of the prime winners. While his signing had been hinted at the start of last year, the Titans’ front office wasn’t assured they’d secure him for the second year. Instead, they’ve assembled a potent collection of skill-position players, with Ridley as a pivotal addition, alongside Tony Pollard, who they acquired earlier from the tampering window. With Lewis leading an offense stacked with Ridley, Pollard, DeAndre Hopkins, Tyja Spears, and Tralon Banks, he’s set his young quarterback up for success.
Hunter Renfrow’s journey seems somewhat peculiar, as he was cut as a winner for being a mere contributor for the Raiders in previous seasons. However, I believe it’s applicable here. The 28-year-old receiver had been gradually phased out of the Raiders’ offense over the past few years, and his departure was directly facilitated by Jacoby Meyers’ emergence last season. Renfrow is now free to join a team eager to assign him a significant role among its passing arsenal. Renfrow has shown an ability to open windows and could be a beautiful security blanket for some quarterbacks in the league. His signing might not make headlines like some of the bigger names, but it represents an upgrade for certain quarterback-needy teams.
Hollins had agreed to terms with the Buffalo Bills, initially seeming like he’d play a significant role in their offense, especially as a replacement for Gabriel Davis, who they let walk to free agency. The clear path to Williams’ departure was premature, yet understandable. Hollins doesn’t merely aim to share target shares, but as mentioned, he’s receiving a significant upgrade as a quarterback with the potential to deliver a career year. Even with subpar QB play, Hollins found a way to produce in 2022, where he racked up 57 catches for 690 yards and delivered Derek Carr and Justin Fields some much-needed reliability. Paired alongside Allen, Hollins should have an enjoyable time in Orchard Park.
The New York Jets found themselves amidst one of the worst offensive lines in the NFL last season, allowing a league-leading 64 sacks (the third-most in NFL history). If you’re 40-year-old Aaron Rodgers returning from a season-ending Achilles injury in 2023, it’s a downright terrifying situation. However, the Jets have taken steps to fortify that vulnerable line and, on Wednesday, took a proactive approach by partnering with the Ravens to close a deal for Morgan Moses, solidifying the right tackle position. At 33, Rodgers deserves stability on the right side of the line and keeping Rodgers upright and out of harm’s way is paramount for the Jets’ success in 2024. Who knows, if Rodgers can stay healthy, maybe we’ll start calling the Jets’ offensive line the “Secret Service.” Just kidding.
The Los Angeles Chargers found themselves in a salary cap conundrum and were forced to make the tough decision to part ways with one of their talented wideouts. It’s a bittersweet exit for Williams from L.A, clearing $20 million in cap space by shedding him. He had been set to receive a base salary of $17 million with a $3 million roster bonus in 2024, but now he’s entered the free-agent market. At 30, Williams’ market will be interesting to watch come October, and a torn ACL from Week 3 doesn’t help his case as a deep-threat receiver. If he doesn’t end up in Kansas City or Cincinnati, it might not be under such favorable circumstances. Coming off a career year despite playing with Justin Herbert, a downgrade at quarterback could loom large for the former Clemson standout.
