NFL Free Agent “Legal Tampering” Begins Today

The NFL off-season is about to kick things into second gear today at around 12 noon eastern when the “legal tampering” period is allowed to commence, meaning that teams can begin signing prospective free agents.

Of course hanging over the proceedings is the status of Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who is still pondering his future. Over the weekend it was reported that the New York Jets and Packers were close to a deal for the disgruntled 39-year old quarterback, but Rodgers hasn’t committed either way yet.

Could a decision come today? That is what everyone is waiting to find out.

Meanwhile the Jets didn’t wait to make a move. After clearing nearly $15 million in cap space, the Jets inked outside linebacker Quincy Williams to a three-year, $18 million extension. Williams, whose brother Quinnen also plays on the Jets, quickly developed into one of the Jets best run stoppers and pass rushers last season. Over the past two years Williams has 147 tackles, five sacks and 21 tackles for loss.

As for the Giants, they re-upped with wide receiver Sterling Shepherd on a one-year veteran minimum deal. While he was injured most of the year last year, Shepherd was credited with providing steady leadership off the field for teammates.

Big names we could see hit the market and move around include: 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garappolo; Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson; Packers wide receiver Allen Lazard; Jets back-up quarterback Mike White; Chiefs Wide Receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster; former Giants receiver Odell Beckham Jr.; Giants receiver Darius Slayton; Bills lineback Tremaine Edwards; Chiefs tackle Orlando Brown; Eagles Center Jason Kelce, and many more.