Every NFL season brings its own set of unique challenges and opportunities for the players. This past season proved no different, with numerous athletes experiencing significant milestones, both triumphs and setbacks.
Calvin Ridley's Redemption
After being suspended for the 2022 season under the NFL's gambling policy and stepping away from football seven games into the 2021 season to focus on his mental health, Calvin Ridley rebounded impressively in 2023. Joining the Jacksonville Jaguars, Ridley posted substantial stats with 76 catches, 1,016 receiving yards, and eight touchdowns. This performance led to a lucrative four-year, $92 million contract with the Tennessee Titans, averaging $23 million annually.
Stefon Diggs Shakes Things Up
For Stefon Diggs, the last season with the Buffalo Bills started strong, with Diggs catching 49 passes for 620 yards and five touchdowns in the first six games. However, his performance dipped dramatically in the final 11 games, lacking a single 100-yard game. In the playoffs, Diggs managed 10 receptions for 73 yards but failed to score any touchdowns across two games.
In a trade that sent ripples through the league, Diggs was traded to the Houston Texans in March, along with a 2024 fourth-round pick and a 2025 fifth-round pick. The Bills received a 2025 second-round pick in return. As part of this trade, Diggs' contract was reworked, increasing his 2024 salary to $22.52 million from $19.005 million.
Nick Chubb's Injury Struggles
Nick Chubb’s 2023 season ended prematurely due to a severe left knee injury just two games in, where he tore his ACL, MCL, and meniscus. This echoed his injury history, having previously torn his LCL, MCL, and PCL in 2015 during his time at the University of Georgia. Despite these setbacks, Chubb had a stellar 2022 season with a career-high 1,525 rushing yards. The Cleveland Browns showed their commitment by retaining him on a revised contract guaranteeing $2.05 million, with potential earnings reaching $12.225 million.
Tee Higgins' Challenges and Future
Tee Higgins was another player battling injuries, limited to just 12 games in 2023. Nevertheless, he managed 42 receptions for 656 yards and five touchdowns. The Bengals recognized his potential by designating him as a franchise player for $21.816 million, a decision that led Higgins to request a trade. Meanwhile, the Bengals are gearing up for a blockbuster contract extension for Ja'Marr Chase, hinting at strategic moves within their squad.
Ronnie Stanley's Pay Cut
Ronnie Stanley, signed to a five-year, $98.75 million extension in 2020, has played in only 26 out of a possible 61 regular-season games since then. Last season, he participated in 13 games and agreed to a pay cut for 2024, reducing his compensation from $15 million to $7.5 million. His new deal includes incentives that could boost his earnings to a maximum of $17.5 million based on playtime and honors.
Kyle Pitts' Roller Coaster Ride
Kyle Pitts made a sensational start with 1,026 receiving yards and a Pro Bowl selection in his rookie season. However, injuries over the last two seasons have hindered his production, amounting to just 1,023 yards in 27 games. Despite this, the Falcons picked up Pitts' fifth-year option in 2025, valued at $10.878 million. New Falcons coach Raheem Morris expressed excitement about how Pitts will be utilized, indicating a possible return to form.
Challenges for Marquise Brown
Marquise Brown faced his own struggles in 2023, posting a career-low 574 receiving yards on 51 catches across 14 games. He signed a one-year, $7 million contract with Kansas City, with potential earnings reaching $11 million with incentives. Unfortunately, a dislocated left shoulder is expected to keep him out of the regular-season opener against the Ravens.
Najee Harris' Consistency
Najee Harris has been consistent, gaining over 1,000 rushing yards in each of his three NFL seasons. However, the Steelers opted not to exercise a fully guaranteed $6.79 million fifth-year option for Harris in 2025, leaving his future with the team uncertain.
Contracts and Transitions
The Patriots extended Rhamondre Stevenson with a four-year, $36 million deal, featuring over $17 million guaranteed. Similarly, Jawaan Taylor signed a four-year, $80 million contract with Pittsburgh, including $60 million in guarantees, despite leading the NFL in penalties and penalty yards in 2023. Taylor has $20 million in fully guaranteed salary scheduled for 2025.
Other notable moves include Jameson Williams recording 24 receptions for 354 yards with two touchdowns in 12 games last season. He has a fully guaranteed option year salary exceeding $15 million. Furthermore, Josh Reynolds exited Detroit for Denver, marking another significant transition.
Treylon Burks has had a modest performance with 49 receptions, 665 yards, and one touchdown in 21 games since being drafted, supplementing the Titans’ receiving corps alongside DeAndre Hopkins, who was signed on a two-year deal before last year's training camp, and recent addition Tyler Boyd on a one-year contract.
As the offseason progresses, teams and players will continue to adapt, setting the stage for another compelling NFL season. The developments promise plenty of excitement and competition, as athletes strive for excellence on the field.