The National Football League (NFL) constantly sees shifts and turns as players navigate through their careers, often marked by highs and lows. Leading into the 2023 season, several high-profile players made significant headlines.
Calvin Ridley's Rollercoaster Journey
Calvin Ridley's career has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. After stepping away in 2021 to focus on his mental health, Ridley faced a suspension throughout the 2022 season under the NFL's gambling policy. However, 2023 saw him bounce back impressively with the Jacksonville Jaguars, amassing 76 catches for 1,016 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. Ridley secured a four-year, $92 million contract with the Tennessee Titans, highlighting his substantial value and resilience amidst adversity.
Stefon Diggs' Trade to Houston Texans
Stefon Diggs' time with the Buffalo Bills came to a surprising end when he was traded to the Houston Texans in March. Despite a stellar start last season, with 49 catches for 620 yards and five touchdowns in the first six games, his performance waned, and he couldn't notch a single 100-yard game in the final 11 matches. The trade package involved a 2024 fourth-round pick and a 2025 fifth-round pick, while the Bills received a 2025 second-round pick. As part of the trade, Diggs' contract was restructured, boosting his 2024 salary to $22.52 million from $19.005 million. In the playoffs, Diggs managed 10 receptions for 73 yards and no touchdowns in two games, a performance Houston hopes to improve on.
Injuries Haunt Nick Chubb
Nick Chubb's 2023 season was abruptly interrupted by a severe left knee injury in just the second game, tearing his ACL, MCL, and meniscus. This injury harkened back to his collegiate days at the University of Georgia, where he previously tore his LCL, MCL, and PCL. Chubb, who had a career-high 1,525 rushing yards in 2022, remains a pivotal player for the Cleveland Browns. They have ensured his continued presence with a revised contract that guarantees him $2.05 million, with potential earnings up to $12.225 million.
Tee Higgins Battles Injuries and Discontent
Tee Higgins' 2023 season was marred by injuries, limiting him to just 12 games. Despite the setbacks, he caught 42 passes for 656 yards and five touchdowns. The Cincinnati Bengals designated him as a franchise player for $21.816 million. However, Higgins requested a trade following the franchise tag, a significant development as the Bengals simultaneously plan a blockbuster contract extension for Ja'Marr Chase.
Ronnie Stanley's Struggle with Injuries and Contract Adjustments
Ronnie Stanley has faced a myriad of challenges since signing a five-year, $98.75 million extension in 2020. He has managed to participate in only 26 out of a possible 61 regular-season games. Last season, Stanley appeared in 13 games and later agreed to a pay cut for 2024, reducing his compensation to $7.5 million from $15 million. His new contract is structured to include incentives that could escalate his earnings to $17.5 million based on playtime and honors.
Kyle Pitts' Potential Under New Coaching
Kyle Pitts, who showcased his talent with 1,026 receiving yards and a Pro Bowl selection during his rookie season, witnessed a decline in production over the past two seasons due to injuries. Pitts managed 1,023 yards in 27 games during that period. However, optimism surrounds his future as the Falcons picked up his fifth-year option in 2025, worth $10.878 million. New Falcons coach Raheem Morris has expressed excitement about how Pitts will be utilized, potentially marking a resurgence in his career.
Marquise Brown's Move to Kansas City
Marquise Brown experienced a career-low in 2023 with 574 receiving yards on 51 catches across 14 games. In a move to rejuvenate his career, Brown signed a one-year, $7 million deal with Kansas City, with incentives that could raise his earnings to $11 million. However, Brown's dislocated left shoulder is expected to keep him out of the regular-season opener against the Ravens.
Najee Harris and Rhamondre Stevenson Highlight Running Back Transactions
Najee Harris has consistently gained over 1,000 rushing yards in each of his three NFL seasons. Despite his steady performance, the Steelers opted not to exercise his fully guaranteed $6.79 million fifth-year option for 2025. On the other hand, the Patriots extended Rhamondre Stevenson with a four-year, $36 million deal, featuring over $17 million in guaranteed money, signifying their confidence in his abilities.
Jawaan Taylor Joins Pittsburgh Amidst Penalty Issues
Jawaan Taylor signed a lucrative four-year, $80 million contract with Pittsburgh, including $60 million in guarantees. Taylor led the NFL in penalties and penalty yards in 2023, a concern the Steelers will undoubtedly address. He has $20 million in fully guaranteed salary scheduled for 2025, underscoring the franchise's substantial commitment to him despite his disciplinary record.
Jameson Williams' Assurance in Detroit
Jameson Williams, Detroit's 12th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, recorded 24 receptions for 354 yards and two touchdowns in 12 games last season. Detroit's commitment to Williams is demonstrated by the fully guaranteed option year salary exceeding $15 million, ensuring his role in the team's future.
Titans' Evolving Receiving Corps
Treylon Burks, DeAndre Hopkins, and Tyler Boyd form the current Titans’ receiving corps for quarterback Ryan Tannehill. Burks has recorded 49 receptions, 665 yards, and a single touchdown in 21 games since being drafted. The Titans signed DeAndre Hopkins on a two-year deal before last year's training camp and recently added Tyler Boyd on a one-year contract, bolstering their offensive options.
The unfolding stories of these players underscore the unpredictable and dynamic nature of the NFL, where careers can pivot on a single season or moment. As teams gear up for the new season, these players will be closely watched, their performances and decisions influencing the ever-evolving landscape of professional football.