2021 NFL Free Agency grades for every team: Browns, Jets ace offseason

NFL Free Agency Grades: NFC West

Arizona Cardinals | Grade: B

Despite some big splashes in free agency with J.J. Watt and A.J. Green coming to the Cardinals, the reason that they are graded modestly is the risk baked into what they’re doing. Watt is on the wrong side of his prime, as is Green. Rodney Hudson is a crucial addition on the interior of the offensive line but don’t let the name value of what Arizona has done overshadow the possible pitfalls of their operation.

Los Angeles Rams | Grade: B+

Trading for Matthew Stafford was clearly the biggest move of the offseason for the Rams and the upgrade at quarterback can’t be understated. The former No. 1 overall pick working with Sean McVay with these weapons could be magical. Unfortunately, they were forced to let some key defenders walk in order to ink Leonard Floyd to a massive extension but, overall, the Rams are continuing their relatively successful stars-and-scrubs approach around a shiny new quarterback.

San Francisco 49ers | Grade: B+

Even with how expensive the deal is, making Trent Williams the NFL’s highest-paid offensive lineman ever is a terrific move for the 49ers, especially as they plan to transition at quarterback. Moreover, reuniting center Alex Mack with Kyle Shanahan could prove valuable. Outside of that, though, San Francisco has been relatively quiet as they’ve faced cap restraints, which ultimately keeps them out of “A” territory.

Seattle Seahawks | Grade: B

Understanding that the Seahawks indeed lost some key players in Shaquill Griffin, David Moore and Carlos Dunlap, among others, I’m a fan overall of their moves. Gabe Jackson represents a substantial upgrade at guard while Gerald Everett and Ahkello Witherspoon are high-upside additions. Extending Poona Ford and Tyler Lockett also make for two quality moves that, overall, make it a solid offseason — especially if they can find some late value off the edge in free agency.