The first day of NFL free agency in 2024 has come to a close, with numerous big-name players agreeing to lucrative contracts and a few others changing teams through trades. While signings and trades won’t be official until Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET, the flurry of activity on Day 1 has certainly set the tone for the offseason.
In terms of winners and losers from Day 1, the Atlanta Falcons emerged as a clear winner with the acquisition of quarterback Kirk Cousins. With an already strong roster, Cousins brings a veteran presence under center that could propel the Falcons into contention for the NFC South title. The move also eliminated a potential landing spot for other quarterbacks, such as the Chicago Bears’ signal-caller.
On the flip side, the AFC South teams didn’t make the most of their spending power, with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Tennessee Titans making what some consider to be lateral moves. While there is still time for these teams to make big splashes, their Day 1 decisions left much to be desired.
The New York Giants’ front office made smart moves to address key areas of need, adding players like Brian Burns, Jermaine Eluemunor, and Jon Runyan to bolster their offensive line and pass rush. By not overpaying for running back Saquon Barkley, the Giants also avoided a potential pitfall.
Overall, Day 1 of NFL free agency saw a mix of winners and losers, with some teams making savvy moves while others missed the mark. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on how these early signings and trades shape the landscape of the league.
