Welcome to the first of several NFL collaboration articles from the Faceoff Sports Network staff. Throughout the offseason, we will continue to provide our thoughts and ultimately help you use this information towards fantasy football and sports betting. Today, we’re breaking down 6 bold predictions for the upcoming 2024 NFL Free Agency period.
While some moves are predictable, history has shown that teams and players surprise us. In this first piece, we delve into our bold predictions for NFL free agency.
As you read along, feel free to interact with your thoughts and follow us on all social media formats for the latest and best content in the industry. Let’s get right into it.
New England Patriots – The Most Aggressive Team in Free Agency
The New England Patriots attempt a fast turnaround in 2024, and it begins with the open free-agent market. With roughly $85.3M in cap space, the second most in the NFL entering the 2024 NFL free agency window, the Patriots will spend big.
Owner Robert Kraft is not used to losing. So what better way to enter the post-Bill Belichick era than by trying to win the AFC East in Jerod Mayo’s first year as the Pats’ head coach? After all, the AFC East is better on paper than it is on the field.
The Patriots could take a quarterback in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, but they can also target Marvin Harrison Jr. In that scenario, they address the quarterback position with a veteran like Garnder Minshew, Jacoby Brissett, Jimmy Garoppolo, or Ryan Tannehill.
In addition, look for the Patriots to also improve their offensive line with future Hall of Fame LT Tyron Smith, and of course, a total revamp of the wide receiver room.
– Anthony Cervino @TheRealNFLGuru
Saquon Barkley Stays with the New York Giants
In my opinion, this is not the smartest move for the former Penn State running back. However, my bold prediction is that Saquon Barkley stays with the Giants.
While Barkley was born in New York and grew up a Jets fan, the star back has always taken pride in playing for a hometown team. If the Giants make a fair offer, I could see a scenario where Barkley chooses his heart over his wallet.
In retrospect, the Giants should have hitched their wagon to Barkley instead of Daniel Jones. If they so choose, they will have to compete with the rest of the league to right that wrong.
– Michael Hauff @TheFFRealist
Michael Thomas Signs with the Denver Broncos
Once a star wide receiver in the NFL, Michael Thomas is expected to be released from the New Orleans Saints. The 31 year old wide receiver hasn’t played a full season since 2019 and is coming off the second-worst season of his 7 seasons in the NFL.
After missing the entire 2021 season, Thomas has been a shell of himself over the last two seasons. That might even be generous. Despite playing in 10 games this year and having Derek Carr and Jameis Winston slinging the ball in New Orleans, Thomas had just 448 yards and one touchdown. Not to mention, he caught just 39 of 64 targets. That’s the lowest he’s had in both categories, outside of 2022 where he only played in three games.
Moving forward, I’m projecting the Denver Broncos to target Thomas in free agency, giving Sean Payton and the WR a reunion. Recently, the Broncos traded Jerry Jeudy to the Cleveland Browns for a 5th and 6th round pick. This leaves Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims Jr. as the primary pass catchers for this offense. Don’t be surprised when the Broncos draft a rookie in the 2024 NFL Draft, but Thomas could very well end up in Denver on a cheap deal.
– Aaron Schill @aaron_schill
Austin Ekeler Signs with the Dallas Cowboys
It appears that the Cowboys are going to let Tony Pollard walk in free agency. Personally, I think they will pay for a running back to replace him and maybe bring in a late pick in the NFL Draft.
With that, Ekeler would be a really nice fit in this Dallas offense. The team was 3rd in the NFL for passing attempts and Ekeler is as elite as they come in pass catching for running backs. While Ekeler will be 29 years old in this upcoming 2024 NFL season, he could certainly still produce for a few more seasons.
Furthermore, Ekeler started the 2023 season hurt with an ankle injury. For a running back, and injury like that can linger all year. I think he still has the juice to produce for another year or two. Overall, the Cowboys offense would be a match made in heaven. Not to mention, for fantasy football purposes.
– Pete Terranova @SuperrNova38
Marquise Brown Signs with the Kansas City Chiefs
Travis Kelce is on the downswing, while Rashee Rice is on the rise. Meanwhile, don’t be surprised if the Kansas City Chiefs grab one of the talented wide receivers in this deep 2024 NFL Draft class.
However, the Chiefs need to make a move as they prepare for life after Kelce. As of now, the Chiefs have a little under $10M in cap space. The team will be making more moves prior to free agency opening, but the added boost that Marquise Brown can bring will make the upcoming draft easier to go into.
– Ryan Miner @RyanMiner_FFB
Gabe Davis Signs a Large Deal with the Chicago Bears
The Bears need to add a receiver opposite DJ Moore and Gabe Davis would be a great option if they choose to go the free-agency route.
Davis is only 24 years old, has a bunch of upside as a deep threat, and is already an elite run blocker. That would be huge for likely first-overall pick Caleb Williams and the Bears offense.
– Brandon Braasch @BrandonBraasch3
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