NFL Free Agency: 30 worst free agency signings this century

29. Worst NFL free agency signings this century: Adam Archuleta

After a stellar career at Arizona State University, safety Adam Archuleta heard his name called in the first round of the 2001 NFL Draft. The No. 20 overall pick for the then-St. Louis Rams, Archuleta ended up having a successful run with the NFC West franchise. He showed off some great versatility, as the Rams used him in both a safety role, as well as at weakside linebacker.

In his five seasons, he registered 409 tackles with a career-high of 116 in 2002. He had just three interceptions during that span but was still incredibly valuable for his ability to constantly be around the ball. Archuleta then hit free agency after the 2005 season and was highly sought after due to his abilities as a tackler.

The Washington Football Team ended up landing him on a contract that paid him $35 million over seven seasons. This was the richest safety contract at that time. However, he wasn’t the same player for the Washington Football Team as he was for St. Louis.

With Washington, Archuleta was exposed by opposing offenses who realized he was a liability in the passing game. He ended up getting benched and started just seven games that year. Archuleta later complained about the way he was being used by the coaching staff and was then traded to the Chicago Bears.

He played one more season before calling it a career. As for the Washington Football Team, they paid an awful lot of money for a guy who mainly contributed on special teams.