We all waited anxiously since March, wondering if we’d be watching America’s Game this coming fall. With countless meetings between owners and player representatives, endless reports from ESPN Analyst, Adam Schefter, and legal jargon that had us all scratching our heads finally came to a close on July 25. We were ready for football. But General Managers and player agents ran for the coffee pot, working feverishly around the clock trying to make roster moves.
During the NFL signing period, one thing is certain – expect the unexpected. Despite a laconic signing period, this became one of the most astounding off season in years.
With that said, here are the top signings from the 2011 NFL Season:
Nnamdi Asomugha – In Nigeria, his name means “My heavenly father lives”. Well, the heavenly father must have been looking down on Philadelphia when they heard the news of the signing of the highly acclaimed, best cornerback in the league as a free agent from the Oakland Raiders. An unconventional, lengthy 6’2 cornerback is the most feared cornerbacks. A four-time pro bowler, quarterbacks sway from throwing anywhere near him. With the signing, the Eagles, on paper, have the most talented team in the NFL.
Chad Ochocinco – A perfect complement to Tom Brady, Chad Ochocinco will become a certified force to Patriots offense. It was an astonishing trade from the Cincinnati Bengals for a 5th and 6th Round Pick. Bizzare in a sense. But for a Hall of Fame receiver that’s approaching 11,000 receiving yards for his career, his off the field antics have been questioned. Therefore, a stern coach, a professional owner and a history of audacious signings that have worked, i.e. Randy Moss, makes Ochocinco the final piece to the puzzle for the Patriots receiving core.
Larry Fitzgerald – The undisputed best player in Arizona Cardinals history, Fitzgerald would have become a free agent at the end of 2011. That all changed when Fitzgerald became the highest paid receiver in the NFL, signing an 8 year, 120 million dollar deal right before the regular season. Barley 28, Fitzgerald has already accumulated over 8,000 yards and 65 touchdowns throughout his career. With their first Super Bowl appearance three years ago and signing the most dynamic receiver in the game, the Arizona Cardinals are finally becoming a competitive franchise.
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie – Acquired by the Arizona Cardinals in the Kevin Kolb trade, the Eagles added yet another commanding cornerback. Time will tell, but the Eagles received a lot for giving up a second string quarterback who only started a handful of games in his career. An athletic cornerback with size and quick speed, Rodgers-Cromartie will become a force in the NFC East with the aforementioned Nnamdi Asomugha adjacent to him.
Reggie Bush – The Miami Dolphins haven’t had a thorough running game since the Rickey Williams era in the early 2000’s. That may change since the Dolphins acquired Reggie Bush in a trade from the New Orleans Saints. Many believe Bush never played to his potential since his Heisman days at USC, but he will finally get the opportunity to be the feature back in Miami. Look for a motivated Bush to be a 1,000 yard back this season.
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