What You Should Look Forward to as an NFL Fan

So far, the NFL offseason has been exciting. It started off with retirement news, as Phillip Rivers decided to hang up the cleats after gracing the field for 17 years. This led to the Colts trading for Carson Wentz. 

Before that, however, two NFL teams executed a trade that seemed like the NFL was actually the NBA. The Rams traded Jared Goff, the 2021 third-round pick, the 2022 first-round pick, and the 2023 first-round pick for Mathew Stafford. Jared Goff has a massive contract, allowing the Lions to demand more from the Rams. These types of trades are often seen in the NBA when cash-heavy players are traded with other picks. 

Then we had the Buccaneers Championship parade, which everyone but Chiefs fans laughed at. NFL fans were able to see a Tom Brady that is rarely seen, one who was smiling, drunk, and throwing around the Superbowl trophy. 

Deshaun Watson demanded a trade, and J.J Watt shockingly decided to leave the Texans. As always, some players were cut from their teams or will not be resigning – such as DeSean Jackson and Dez Bryant.

So, what are the major dates coming up? On February 23rd, Franchise tagging season started. During this period, teams can tag their players for one year. In other words, they force players to come back to the team for a specific price. Franchise tagging season ends on March 9th. The Cowboys will need to either franchise tag or sign Dak Prescott to a contract by March 9th; otherwise, he becomes a free agent. Some other notable players that may be franchise tagged are Lenoard Williams (DL) of the Giants, Chris Godwin (WR) of the Buccaneers, and Shaq Barret (OLB) of the Buccaneers. Franchise tagging holds a hefty price, but teams are afraid of allowing these players to walk free into free agency. 

March 17th is the day that the offseason truly starts, as it marks the day that the NFL free agency opens up. Last year’s free agency was historic, as we saw players like Tom Brady switch teams. This year may be able to match the hype of last year’s free agency, as J.J Watt looks for a new home, teams look for their franchise QB, and elite players hit the market.

Last but not least, the NFL Draft. This year, countless numbers of teams look for new quarterbacks. Trevor Lawrence will, without a doubt, be going first  (most likely to the Jaguars). Everything else remains a blur, as talent is genuinely elite in this draft class. The NFL Draft will span from April 29th to May 1st. 

As an NFL fan this offseason, keep up to speed with free agency, and get ready to win the Fantasy Football Championship next year!