The 2024 NFL offseason is heating up as teams begin to strategize their rosters for the upcoming season. A slew of free agents, including notable offensive linemen and tight ends, are on the market, with teams assessing their options ahead of training camps. Among the significant names making headlines are Engram, a potential cut candidate with a hefty unguaranteed sum, and the legendary Hopkins, who hinted at a 2025 return before retracting his statement. Teams are also keeping a close eye on potential trades involving key players like Higgins.
A long list of offensive linemen enters free agency, with some hoping to find a new home. Notable names include Ben Bartch of the 49ers, Kelvin Beachum from the Cardinals, and Andre Dillard of the Packers. These players carry varying levels of experience, but teams might hesitate to extend long-term contracts. The linemen are crucial back-ups, though few will be chosen as starters unless necessary.
Engram emerges as the sole starting-caliber tight end potentially available, with $15.5 million in unguaranteed money left on his deal. His performance over recent seasons has been less than stellar, ranking 44th in receiver score and averaging 1.5 yards per route run. Despite these numbers, he finished sixth in fantasy scoring for tight ends in 2022 and 2023, thanks to his role in catching passes in the flats for Trevor Lawrence.
Meanwhile, veteran wide receiver Hopkins stirred excitement with his social media activity, hinting at a return in 2025 before deleting the post. At 32, Hopkins might follow the path of Julio Jones, waiting until late summer or the regular season to join a contender. His potential return keeps fans and teams guessing about future developments.
Cincinnati's Higgins could also see a shift in his career trajectory. With comparisons drawn to past moves by the Panthers and Seahawks regarding franchise tags, the Bengals might trade or release him before signing. However, the most plausible outcome remains Higgins staying with Cincinnati next season.
The free agency pool also features veteran tight ends like Jordan Akins of the Browns and Hayden Hurst from the Panthers. While these players bring experience, their roles are often limited to stepping in during emergencies rather than securing permanent starting positions.
In the running back department, Singletary's journey presents an interesting case. After starting in New York and later losing the lead role to Tyrone Tracy Jr., Singletary's ability to catch passes remains valuable despite his fumbling issues.
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