Ravens Sign Elvis Dumervil

The Baltimore Ravens continue to lose pieces from last seasons' Super Bowl team. Their biggest loss was on the defense. First, pass rushing outside linebacker Paul Kruger signed a 5 year contract with the rival Browns. Then safeties Bernard Pollard and Ed Reed left for the Titans and Texans respectively, and inside linebacker Danell Ellerbe went to the Dolphins. The Ravens needed to address the need on the defensive side of the ball somehow this off-season. They responded by signing former Pro Bowl, Denver Bronco, defensive end Elvis Dumervil to a 5 year, $35 million contract. Dumervil had been previously released by the Denver Broncos because both sides failed to reach on a agreement. Dumervil was originally going to take a pay cut this season from $12 million to $8 million, but he didn't submit paperwork in time. This had caused a fiasco between him and his agent, which resulted in Dumervil firing his agent. Dumervil will have to move from defensive end to outside linebacker because of the loss of Paul Kruger. Dumervil will also re-unite with former Denver linebackers coach Don Mardindale. Dumervil has averaged at least 10 sacks in each of his first 7 seasons with the Broncos. The addition of Dumervil should help forget the loss of Kruger.

Bucs Bolster Secondary By Adding Goldson

One word to describe the Tampa Bay Buccaneers secondary last season is pitiful. The Bucs were dead last in pass defense last season as they allowed a whopping 312.6 pass yards per game, the first team ever in a 16 game schedule to allow more than 300 yards passing per game. They added cornerback Eric Wright last season, but he got suspended 4 games and fell out of contention quickly last season. E.J. Biggers wasn't the answer either, and with Rhonde Barber showing signs of slowing down, the Bucs were in desperation of a saftey. They signed Dashon Goldson to a 5 year, $41.25 million contract according to Albert Breer. The 49ers refused to place the franchise tag on Goldson or reconstruct his contract, surprising right? Goldson is a very versatile saftey that the Bucs have been looking for ever since John Lynch left the team. Goldson is a hard hitter, who also has a nose for the ball whenever it's around him. The combination of Goldson and Mark Barron at saftey is one of the most highest and talented in all of football.

Lions Sign Reggie Bush

Detriot Lions Coach Jim Schwartz wanted a good running back to go with Mikel LeShoure. Like the Chris Johnson-LenDale White type of duo, when he was the defensive coordinator with the Tennessee Titans. The Lions signed running back Reggie Bush to a 4 year, $16 million contract. The combination of LeShoure and Bush could be similar to the Smash and Dash team of Chris Johnson and LenDale White in Tennessee.  Joaquie Bell was more of a 4th quarter running back last season and didn't get a ton of snaps in the first 3 quarters till late last season. Bush will have a similar role that Bell had, but only bigger. Bush and Bell are comparable at times because they're a dual threat back, good at running and catching the football. Last season, Bush ran for 986 yards, caught 35 passes, and totaled 8 touchdowns last season with the Miami Dolphins. Bell who is still an unrestriced free agent, was the most consistent pass catching running back, besides Darren Sproles last season. However, Bush can also help return punts, which the Lions need. The additon of Bush will show that the Lions could commit more to the run this season.

Broncos Sign Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie

According to Albert Breer, the Broncos have signed cornerback Dominque-Rodgers Cromartie to a 1 year deal. The addition of Rodgers-Cromartie should be an upgrade over injured, inconsistent Tracey Porter. Last season, Rodgers-Cromartie had tons of difficulties defending the pass last season and often got beat like Nnamdi Asoughamua last season, but he did lead the team in passes defended. The last time the Broncos signed a good corner to line up with Champ Bailey was Dre' Bly, who played incredibley inconsistent and only last about 1.5 seasons with the Broncos. Let's hope this one year deal with Rodgers-Cromartie will help him mature into the player he was in 2009, a Pro Bowler with the Arizona Cardinals.

49ers Sign Glenn Dorsey

The San Franciso 49ers have signed defensive lineman Glenn Dorsey to a 2 year, $7 million contract. Dorsey will fill a void at defensive tackle after the 49ers lost both Isaac Sopogoa and Rickey Jean Francois in free agency. Dorsey was a top 10 draft pick when he was seleceted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2008, but he hasn't been able to play up to his potential. Dorsey was was limited to only 4 games because of injuries last season. We will see this season what Glenn Dorsey can do at defensive tackle for the 49ers. Will he be the same Glenn Dorsey that was a draft bust in K.C. or will we see the run-stuffer we've all been looking for?

Action Jackson Flyin To Atlanta

After the Atlanta Falcons parted ways with running back Michael Turner earlier this off-season, their first priority was to find Turner's replacement. The Falcons found a good replacement by signing Steven Jackson to a 3 year, $12 million contract. The 29 year old Jackson ran for 1,042 yards and 4 touchdowns for ther St. Louis Rams last season. It was the 8th consecutive season that Jackson ran for at leasr 1,000 yards. Jackson showed some signs last season that he can still be a starting running back, even though 7th rounder Daryl Richardson got quite a bit of touches too. Jackson can also be effective in the passing game as well, something that Michael Turner couldn't do. Jackson's 4.1 yards per carry was better than Turner's 3.6 last season, but will he still be the same Steven Jackson from 3-4 years ago?

Seahawks Add Pair Of Pass Rushers

The Seattle made 2 big splashes in free agency by adding defensive ends Cliff Avril and Michael Bennett, to help upgrade their defensive line.

The Seahawks signed Avril to a 2 year, $15 million contract. At age 27, Avril is in his prime and should fill in the need at one of the defensive end sports for injured Chris Clemons. Clemons is coming off surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament. Last season, the Seahwks were short-handed for pass rushers in the postseason, which won't be a need anymore after signing Avril. During his stint with the Detriot Lions, Avril forced 16 fumbles and produced 39.5 sacks. The Seahwks defense looks to bring heavy pressure against their opponents and could match of decently with the Niners O-Line too.

The Sehawks also signed a good defensive end in Michael Bennent. The Seahawks and Bennett agreed to a a 1 year, $5 million deal. Bennett was part of a Buccaneers D-Line that ranked 2nd against the run. Bennett started all 16 games for the first time in his career last season, as he posted a career high 9 sacks. The signing of Bennett has the Seahawks will a lot of depth at defensive end now. Bennett should be in a rotation that features Cliff Avril, Chris Clemons, and Bruce Irvin.

Eagles Bring In 5

The Philadelphia Eagles have signed saftey Patrick Chung, fullback James Casey, linebacker Jason Phillips, defensive tackles Isaac Sopoaga, and cornerback Bradley Fletcher. The Eagles have learned their lesson from signing all those big name free agents a couple years ago as they signed 5 under the radar guys.

After the Eagles hire Billy Davis as their defensive coordinator, they changed to a 3-4 defense. They needed a guy with expierence in this system. They signed saftey Patrick Chung to a 4 year deal. Chung is coming off a dissapointing season after falling out of favor with the coaches. Chung has been injury prone too, so the Eagles must be cautious about this. Chung had 44 tackles and 2 picks last season.

The Eagles needed to find a versatile fullback that can play multiple positions. James Casey was a perfect fit as the Eagles agreed to terms with him on a 3 year, $14.5 million contract. The Eagles overapid Casey, which could put a little hit to their salary cap too. It's interesting that the Eagles call Casey a tight end since he was underused as a fullback last season. Casey is more of a recieving, than blocking back, which the Eagles haven't had in years.

Finding a nose tackle was a no-brain for the Eagles after parting ways with Cullen Jenkins (signed with the New York Giants) and Mike Patterson. They signed defensive tackle Isaac Sopogoa to a 3 year, $12 million contract to fill a void at nose tackle. Sopoaga will be the Eagles run-stuffer in their new 3-4 defense as he should plug the holes against opposing offensive lines.

The Eagles released Nnamdi Asoughmau and have lost Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie to free agency and were in need of a corner. They added a good physical one in Bradley Fletcher. Fletcher will fill in a huge need at corner, that the Eagles haven't got any consistent play from since Asante Samuel. According to Pro Football Focus, Fletcher was credited with the 0.52 yards per snap, the lowest rate out of any cornerback in the NFL. Fletcher has been overly agressive at the line of scrimmage sometimes, but his ability to defend against the great recievers is sensational. Fletcher should be an upgrade out of the 2 cornerback that started in Philly last season.

The Eagles needed some depth at linebacker, so they added Jason Phillips. Primarily a special teams player, Phillips could sneak in some defensive packages this season for the Eagles.

Cardinals Overhauling In Free Agency

The Cardinals have signed linebacker Lorenzo Alexander, cornerback Jerraud Powers, saftey Yerimah Bell, quarterback Drew Stanton and running back Rashard Mendenhall.

The Cardinals signed quarterback Drew Stanton 3 year, $8.3 million contract, that's guaranteed another $3 million. Stanton's signing has lead to Kevin Kolb's release as the Cardinals roster now includes 4 QB: John Skelpton, Brian Hoyer, Ryan Lidley, and Drew Stanton. Stanton has only started 5 games in his career, but does have some expierence under his belt, learning from Matthew Stafford. Stanton should take over as the starting QB.

The Cardinals signed special teams star Lorenzo Alexander to a 3 year, $9.5 million deal. Alexander now has a chance to start at one of the inside linebacker positions in Arizona. Last season, Alexander covered kicks and punts very well as earned a 2013 Pro Bowl nod. Alexander will now have to prove that he can be a solid starter in the NFL. He does turn 30 though, but age shouldn't slow Alexander though because he should bring his special teams talents to defense.

After releasing saftey Kerry Rhodes, the Cardinals replaced him after signing Yeremiah Bell to a one year deal. Bell was coming off a one year deal while playing with the New York Jets last season. Bell didn't play as well as Rhodes did defensivlely, but is still a talented player. Bell had 89 tackles and 2 picks for an inconsistent Jets defense. Signing Bell saves the Cardinals money, but he won't be as effective as Kerry Rhodes.

After losing cornerback William Gay to the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Cardinals depth at cornerback was as thin as a piece of paper. That's why the went out and signed Jerraud Powers to a 3 year, $10 million contract. Powers will fill in Gay's shoes as the opposite corner of Pro Bowler Patrick Peterson. Powers never started a game last season with the Colts, but played effectivley in the nickel. Powers will probably play the same position he did in Indy and should help shore up a needed position.

With Beanie Wells gone and LaRod Stephens-Howling an unrestriced free agent, the Cardinals needed a running back that would be effective in Bruce Arians offense. They reunited former Steeler Rashard Mendenhall with Bruce Arians to fill in this need. Mendenhall was signed to a one year, $2.5 milllion contract. When Mendenhall was with Arians in Pittsburgh, he did a great job running the football. Mendenhall averaged at least 1,100 yards and 8 touchdowns during Bruce Arians tenure as offensive coordinator with the Steelers. Mendenhall is a bruising back who can break off long runs in open space. The addition of Mendenall should make the Cardinals running game a lot more effective.

Chargers Add A Cox

The San Diego Chargers have signed their biggest need of their off-season, cornerback. They agreed to terms with free agent corner Derek Cox on a 4 year, $20 million contract. Cox's great play has been often overshadowed by injuries, though when healthy, Cox can be a huge impact player on team's defense, especially the struggling Jaguars defense. Cox is 26 years old, and he's in his prime right now, should be upgraded over Antonie Cason and kind of Quinton Jammer. Cox has intercepted 4 passes when he starts at least 11 games, and his coverage skills has just sensational. Most people overlook Cox, because he's on the Jaguars, but he's a great under the radar player.

Colts Add Landry to Bolster Secondary

On Wendsday, the Colts weren't done leaving free agency, even after signing 5 players on the first day. The Colts used that money to bolster their secondary by signing saftey LaRon Landry. The Colts and Landry agreed to a 4 year, $24 million contract, that also guarantees Landry another $14 million, according to Jason La Canfora. Landry becomes a huge upgrade over Tom Zbokowski, but he needs to stay healthy like he did with the New York Jets last season. Landry earned a Pro Bowl berth last season after starting all 16 games for the Jets. Landry had 75 tackles and 2 picks last season for the Jets.

Broncos Add Vazquez, Knighton

Just moments after the Titants signed defensive tackle Sammie Hill, the Broncos landed defensive tackle Terrance Knighton. The Broncos and Knighton agreed to a 2 year deal. Knighton will reuunite with defensive coordinatior, Jack Del Rio (Former Jaguars Head Coach), who should help Knighton play to his strenghts, in the Broncos 4-3 defense. Last season, Knighton appeared in all Jaguars 16 games, but started only 5 of them. Knighton wont post up Geno Atkins type numbers, but he's fairly decent at stopping the run and should be an upgrade over Bannan.

The Broncos also signed possibly the best free agent guard on the market, by taking away right guard Louis Vazquez from the San Diego Chargers. The Broncos and Vazquez agreed on a 4 year contract worth $23.5 million, and $13 million guaranteed, according to Ian Rapaport. The signing of Vazquez means that right tackle Orlando Franklin doesn't have to move to right guard. This won't do any favors for Chris Kuper, who underwent his second low back surgery for the second consecutive off-season. Taking away Vazquez from the Chargers gives more time for Peyton Manning to find open recievers, which he said do very well at this season, with the addition of Vazquez.

Busy Colts Add 5 From The Market

The Indianapolis Colts were a very busy team in free agency last season as they signed 5 players from the free agency pool. The Colts added right tackle Gosder Cherilus, cornerback Greg Toler, linebacker Erik Walden, guard Donald Thomas, and linebacker Lawrence Silbury.

Adding offensive tackle Gosder Cherilus fills a huge need for the Colts. Last season, rookie quarterback Andrew Luck got beaten down like squash last season as he constantley got pressured, due to the fact the Colts didn't have a solid pass protecting offensive tackle. They added Cherilus, which should make life easier for Luck this season. Gosder has missed only 4 games during his tenure with the Lions and should upgrade this Colts need

With the Colts looking for a cornerback on the market, they decided to not to go huge by signing Greg Toler. This was going to be more cheaper than if the Colts signed Cary Williams. Toler didn't get to start as much at cornerback with the Cardinals last season as he started only 2 games. Toler and the Colts agreed to a 4 year, $16 million contract according to Bob McGinn. Toler will be a upgrade at corner as his physicality at that postion should help him size up with recievers

The Colts added guard Donald Thomas as well. Thomas should fill the Colts have needed at right guard for years. At 27, Thomas has some expierence and should have plenty of talent still left with him, as he will probably start for the Colts this season.

The Colts beleived that linebacker Erik Walden would be their guy opposite of Robert Mathis, but his contract seems too generous for a player who has managed only 9 sacks in 3 seasons. Walden does provide some insurance against the run and is good at covering curl and flat routes. Waden isn't any Dwight Freeney, but he's a good tackler and is a fairly smart run defender as well.

Browns Add A Pass Rusher

The Cleveland Browns made a nice splash in free agency by signing outside linebacker Paul Kruger. The both sides agreed to a 5 year, $40M million contract. Kruger is a very versatile pass-rusher and defensive player, which the Browns have been looking for years, after parting ways with Kameron Wimbley years ago. Kruger posted 9.5 sacks in the regular season last season and 4 in the playoffs, as he was a huge reason why the Ravens D kept on making stops on big time passing situations. However, Kruger was overapid just a little, like every other top free agent out their, but the price was right as the Browns took away a defensive weapon from their division rival Ravens. The Browns have added that pass rusher for new defensive coordinator Ray Horton.

The Browns also made another big move by signing defensive tackle Desmond Bryant. So, far the Browns have done a great job adding pieces to their defense, especially to their run defense. Bryant was with an Oakland team that struggled on defense last season, due to injuries and ineffective playing by players. Desmond Bryant was probably the Raiders best defensive player last season as his ability to stop the run will be perfect for Ray Horton's 3-4 defenseive shceme. The Browns and Bryant agreed to a 5 year, $34 millon contract.

Titans Sign Levitre, Walker

The Titans were a busy team in day one of free agency as they signed Left Guard Andy Levitre and Tight End Delanie Walker. Levitre and the Titans agreed to a 5 year, $39 million contract. Levitre was the Bills best offensive lineman last season as he set up big holes for RB C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson to run through. Levitre will fill a void at left guard after Steve Hutchinson announced his retirement. The Titants also spent their money on Tight End Delanie Walker. Walker and the Titans agreed to a 4 year $17.5 million, with $8.6 million guaranteed. In my opinoin it seemed a lot to give for just a guy who backed up Vernon Davis last season. However, Walker is a heavily underrated, fast, good-blocking tight end that proabably played even better than Davis last season. This should help Chris Johnson get back to his old form as the Titans have added to great run-blocking boldozers to their team.

Chiefs Add Anthony Fasano, Mike DeVito

After finishing a dismial 2-14 record last season, the Chiefs main priorites in the off-season was to upgrade some positions through free agency and the draft. Well, they did that in day one of the free agency perioid by signing Tight End Anthony Fasano and Defensive End Mike DeVito. The Chiefs and Fasano agreed to a multiyear contract according to Ian Rapaport. Fasano will be a huge upgrade over Kevin Boss, and should team up with Tony Moeaki as a great Tight End duo, in Andy Reid's West Coast Offense. Fasano had a career high 41 receptions last season, but his yards per catch fell from 14.1 to 8.1.

One of the most underrated players in this year's off-season is Defensive End Mike DeVito. The Chiefs and DeVito reportedly have agreed to a 3 year, $12.6 million contract. DeVito was probably the most consistent and effective player on the Jets defense, out of their front 7 last season, as he piled up 6 sacks and was an effective run-stuffer against opposing RB. The additions of DeVito and Fasano should help upgrade some of the Chiefs needs.

Dolphins Sign Dannell Ellerbe

After signing Mike Wallace, the Miami Dolphins weren't finished of day 1 of free agency, as they signed free agent ILB Dannell Ellerbe. Ellerbe was a huge reason why the Ravens won Super Bowl 47 and was a big contributor to the Ravens defense last season. According to Ian Rapaport, Ellerbe's contract is worth $35 million for 5 years. This seems a little pricey as the Fins are going to pay Ellerbe at least $7 million this season. This is one of these risky free agent signings that could bug the Dolphins all season long. Paying Ellerbe that much money was a bit overboard as it's up to him to preform at the level of his contract. Ellerbe is an all-around defender though, he can pass rush, stop the run, and plays well against the pass. His versatility will be very helpful to the Ravens defense.

The signing of Ellerbe also forced the Dolphins to release linebacker Karlos Dansby. Even though Dansby led the Dolphins with 134 total tackles last season, he was going to cost a huge chunk of the team's salary cap. Dansby will be used as Ellerbe will try to fill this void in the defense.

Mike Wallace Headed To South Beach

After constant communication with eachother, the Miami Dolphins and free agent wide reciever Mike Wallace have finally agreed to terms. According to NFL.com's Jeff Darlington, the contract is a 5 year deal, worth $56 million. The Dolphins have signed arguably the best free agent wide reciever out their, but was it a good decision. Yes, Mike Wallace is a big play-threat and that's what QB Ryan Tannehill needs, but was he worht about $11.5 million a year. You could of gotten Greg Jennings cheaper, plus he's familiar with Joe Philbin's offensive system. The Dolphins also did re-sign WR Brian Hatline, so combine Wallace, Hartline, Bess, and possibly Brandon Gibson, this Dolphins recieving corps is stacked, but needs to prove they can help a very needy Miami offense, who finished in the low rankings, in lots of offensive categories.

Bills Release Ryan Fitzpatrick

The Buffalo Bills are set to look for a new QB after releasing Ryan Fitzpatrick today. The Bills had overlooked Fitzpatrick when they had given him a 6 year, $59 million contract extension two years ago. Fitzpatrick had a tendencey to throw the ball in tight coverage frequently, due to the fact he had a terrible pass-protecting OL. Fitzpatrick also had trouble running the two minute drill in big situations, but he now becomes the best free agent QB out their. Look for the Buffalo Bills to draft QB Ryan Nassib out of Syracuse, so he can re-unite with former Syracuse head Coach, Doug Marrone.

Aaron Ross, Giants, Reunite

After being a free agent bust with the Jacksonville Jaguards last season, the Jaguars have released veteran corner Aaron Ross, and his $9.75 million contract. Ross will be heading back to New York as probably a reserve, even though he started 15 games  in 2011 with them. Ross should be a key nickel CB for the Giants this season, and with CB Terrell Thomas still recovering from his injury, Ross will fill in his place.

Texans Release Kevin Walter

After having multipe productive seasons with the Houston Texans, wide reciever Kevin Walter has been released. For years, Walter has played No. 2 Wide Reciever ever since Andre Johnson was drafted by the Houston Texans. Walter took a pay cut last season before he caught 41 passes for 518 yards. Walter was one of those underrated veteran recievers that people forgot about, due to the fact that Andre Johnson, Arian Foster, and Matt Schaub took most of the attention away from him. This move will be interesting to see who the Texans will add this off-season.

Martellus Bennett Headed To The Windy City

After failing to agree to sign a contract with the New York Giants, Free Agent Tight End Martellus Bennett posted on Twitter that he'll be joininh his older brother in the windy city. According to NFL.com's Ian Rapaport, the Chicago Bears and Tight End Martellus Bennett have agreed to a 4 year contract. Last season with the Giants, Bennett set career highs in receptions (55), recieving yards (626), and touchdowns (5). Although Bennett struggled sometimes last season, he will be a major upgrade over TE's Kellen Davis and Matt Spaeth. At about 6'5, Bennett is a tall, athletic player at his position that can not only be effective in the passing game, but being an effective blocker. The addition of Bennett should make the tight end position, in Chicago, more efficient.

Cowboys Franchise Tag Anthony Spencer

After releasing saftey Gerald Sensabaugh to save $1.4 million in cap room, the Dallas Cowboys used some of that money to Franchise Tag OLB Anthony Spencer. Spencer is guaranteed $10.63 million this season as the Cowboys didn't take any chances on losing him. With the Cowboys hiring new defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin this off-season, Spencer will move from outside linebacker to defensive end. The 4-3 alingment will be a new look for Spencer and the Cowboys defense. Spencer's speed will help him rush pass offensive tackles to pressure QB.

Ravens, Flacco Agree On Monster Contract

It's offical, Joe Flacco will become the highest paid player in the NFL. The Ravens and quarterback Joe Flacco agreed on a 6 year, $120 million contract that will be reportedly signed on Monday. Flacco's phenominal playoff and superbowl preformance was a huge reason why Flacco got that mammoth contract. Duirng the playoffs Flacco had defeated Colts Rookie QB Andrew Luck (Wild Card) at home, but even beat Peyton Manning (AFC Divisional), and Tom Brady (AFC Championship) on the road to advance to Super Bowl 47. Flacco threw three first half touchdown passes against the Niners stingy defense to help the Ravens win the Super Bowl 34-31. Flacco also won Super Bowl MVP that game too. New Orleans Saints Drew Bress previously was the highest paid player with a 5 year, $100 million contract last year.

Broncos Franchise Tag Ryan Clady

The Denver Broncos are going to place the Franchise Tag on their All-Pro Left Tackle Ryan Clady. After a shaky 2011 season, Clady bounced back and kept quarterback Peyton Manning nearly untouched on his blind side. The Franchise Tag will guarantee $9.828 million on Clady's contract this season. Clady allowed only one sack last season and pancaked the opposing right ends.

Bears Franchise Tag Henry Melton

After taking down the quarterback 6 times and earing a Pro Bowl berth last season, defensive tackle Henry Melton will be the player that's franchise tagged by the Chicago Bears. Melton is pleased to be back as a Bear and hopefully will stay one for a long time. His pass rushing ability as an interior defensive lineman is phenominal and is a reason why the Bears generated a good pass rush last season.

Bills Franchise Tag Jarius Byrd

After releasing saftey George Wilson, the Buffalo Bills weren't going to lose Pro Bowl saftey Jarius Byrd by franchise tagging him. Byrd is the best player in the Bills secondary and has a knack to pick off passes. Byrd also earned a spot on the AFC Pro Bowl Roster and helped force most of the Bills tunrovers last season. The Franchise Tag on Byrd will cost $6.9 million and should allow Byrd to stay with Buffalo. The Bills next priority will probably re-signing left guard Andy Levitre and address their team needs in the draft and free agency.

Bengals Franchise Tag Michael Johnson

After having a breakout season with 11.5 sacks, Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Michael Johnson will recieve the Franchise Tag. The Bengals will use the $11.175 million franchise tag on defensive end Michael Johnson to lock him up for next season. The Bengals will now foucs on giving right tackle Andre Smith and defensive tackle Geno Atkins long-term deals to keep two valuable players on their roster.

Falcons Cut 3 Veterans

The Atlanta Falcons have released veterans Michael Turner, Dunta Robinson, and John Abraham to clear salary cap room. Running Back Michael Turner, Cornerback Dunta Robinson, and Defensive End John Abraham were three key players to a Falcons team that averaged 11 wins per season since 2008. This a very surprising and hard move by general manager Thomas Dimitroff, who released three players that were key to Atlanta's success last seasom. Robinson, Turner, and Abraham were all originally acquired via free agency by the Falcons to keep their careers alive and successful. The Falcons look to rebuild in a new, young direction in the future. Dimitroff will have big decision making this off-season, especially during the free agency period and in the draft to address the appropriate needs that the Falcons need.

Cards Clear Some Cap

The Arizona Cardinals were about $750,000 over the cap and needed to get under, before the free agent period starts. They cut ties with cornerback William Gay and Linebacker Stewart Bradley to get under the cap. In 2011, the Cardinals had signed Bradley to a 5 year, $30M contract tp be their starting middle linebacker. That wouldn't be the case as Bradley never became the starter and registered only 15 tackles in 16 games last season. Last year, cornerback William Gay was signed to a 2 year, $4.95M deal to start opposite of Patrick Peterson. Even though Gay played productive throughout the season last year, the Cardinals couldn't afford him as they both parted ways. The loss of Gay's presence on the defense and Bradley's presence on Special Teams will be missed, but the Cardinals needed to get under the cap room.