Immediate Impact Additions to each 2021 NFL Roster

Michael GinnittiOctober 15, 2021

Now more than a quarter into the 2021 NFL regular season, we've identified a player from each team who's made an immediate impact since being newly added this offseason.

 

Arizona Cardinals

J.J. Watt, DE (Free Agent)
Watt is currently the #8 ranked interior defensive lineman according to PFF, and while his traditional stats don’t jump off the page (0 sacks, 10 tackles), it’s obvious he’s solidified the right side of Arizona’s line. He’s under contract through 2022 at $13.5M, with $5.5M of that already fully guaranteed.

Honorable Mention: Zaven Collins, LB (#16 overall pick)

 

Atlanta Falcons

Cordarrelle Patterson, RB (Free Agent)
Patterson was signed to a 1 year, $3M contrat a month into free agent, after a year in Chicago where he averaged less than 4 yards per carry. He’s now the 2nd ranked RB in the league according to PFF, with 5 total TDs through the first 5 weeks.

Honorable Mention: Kyle Pitts, TE (#4 overall pick)

 

Baltimore Ravens

Sammy Watkins, WR (Free Agent)
Watkins isn’t putting together All-Pro production by any means, but he’s doing enough on the field to give Lamar Jackson a valuable option, while at the same time freeing up time and space for Marquise Brown to further establish himself. His 1 year $5M signing this offseason holds plenty of value for a surging Baltimore squad.

Honorable Mention: Alejandro Villanueva, OT (Free Agent)

 

Buffalo Bills

Emmanuel Sanders, WR (Free Agent)
The Bills didn’t change much about their 2020 roster, but upgrading the WR2 position was a need, and Emmanuel Sanders has fit the bill and then some. Buffalo signed Sanders to a 1 year, $6M contract, but if his production continues, a mid-season extension seems very likely.

Honorable Mention: Greg Rousseau, DE (#30 overall pick)

 

Carolina Panthers

Sam Darnold, QB (Trade)
While the interceptions are still there, Darnold is on a career pace in every other statistical category to start the 2021 season - by a lot. Most importantly, he’s winning ball games for the first time in his NFL career. Carolina has already exercised an $18.8M option for 2022, but there will be some extension talk this offseason (unless Deshaun Watson or Aaron Rodgers comes to town).

Honorable Mention: Hasson Reddick, OLB (Free Agent)

 

Chicago Bears

Jason Peters, OT (Free Agent)
I know the knock on this team is the lack of an offensive line, but both Peters and RT Elijah Wilkinson have had a strong few weeks. Chicago had to pull Jason Peters out of retirement as a last ditch effort to salvage their O-Line, and the near 40-year-old hasn’t disappointed. He’s on a 1 year $1.75M contract.

Honorable Mention: Justin Fields, QB (#11 overall pick)

 

Cincinnati Bengals

Ja’Marr Chase, WR (#5 overall pick)
The Chase-Burrow connection didn’t take long to come together, and the Bengals now have 4 legitimate offensive weapons to boot. Chase doesn’t even become extension eligible until after 2023, so there’s a ton of value to be had here.

Honorable Mention: Chidobe Awuzie, CB (Free Agent)

 

Cleveland Browns

Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, LB (#52 overall pick)
His versatility was actually a negative for some teams looking to fill a very specific role on their edge, but the Browns have let this guy cook for 5 weeks, and he’s rewarded them handsomely. He’s a legit DROY candidate early on, and brings incredible financial value for at least 3 years.

Honorable Mention: John Johnson, S (Free Agent)

 

Dallas Cowboys

Micah Parsons, LB (#12 overall pick)
“Linebacker U” has given us another good one, as the former Penn State star has become the versatile, intelligent piece to the Cowboys defense they’ve been seeking for years. He’s in year 1 of a 4 year, $17M contract.

Honorable Mention: Jayron Kearse, S (Free Agent)

 

Denver Broncos

Teddy Bridgewater, QB (Trade)
Bridgewater is a Top 15 QB according to PFF, and has passed the eye test for much of the early season as well. At under $4.5M for the 2021 season, Teddy is giving this Denver team plenty of value thus far.

Honorable Mention: Javonte Williams, RB (#35 overall pick)

 

Detroit Lions

Austin Seibert, K (Waiver Claim)
It’s not a good sign that the most positive addition to the Lions might be a kicker who’s only played in 3 games thus far. To be honest, the roster as a whole has been built to fail, but the run game and special teams have been adequate thus far.

Honorable Mention: Jared Goff, QB (Trade)

 

Green Bay Packers

Randall Cobb, WR (Trade)
Of course he is. Aaron Rodgers clearly knew what he was talking about when he demanded a reunion with Cobb, who has solidified the slot WR position almost immediately since coming back on board. Cobb is the #12 rated WR in the league according to PFF right now, and carries an $8.25M salary through 2022 ($0 guaranteed).

Honorable Mention: De’Vondre Campbell, LB (Free Agent)

 

Houston Texans

Maliek Collins, DT (Free Agent)
Not a lot of positives to report here, but Collins has been a Top 30 interior defender thus far in 2021, which represents plenty of value on a 1 year, $5M contract. Tyrod Taylor’s early stint with the team looked extremely promising as well.

Honorable Mention: Davis Mills, QB (#67 overall pick)

 

Indianapolis Colts

Matt Pryor, OT (Trade)
Pryor’s a swing/depth tackle on a more regular basis, but he’s played well in the absence of Braden Smith at starting RT of late. He’s on an expiring contract and could be playing himself into a nice raise as every team in football stocks up on depth offensive lineman annually.

Honorable Mention: Carson Wentz, QB (Trade)

 

Jacksonville Jaguars

Marvin Jones, WR (Free Agent)
The Jag’s offense has sputtered for the most part to date, but Marvin Jones has consistently shown he’s still as valuable as a 2nd or 3rd pass catching option as ever. The 31-year-old is signed at $5.5M through 2022, $2.5M of which is fully guaranteed.

Honorable Mention: Dan Arnold, TE (Trade)

 

Kansas City Chiefs

Creed Humphrey, C (#63 overall pick)
The Chiefs are rolling with 5 brand new offensive lineman right now, and it’s been an improvement across the board. Their 2nd round pick is already the highest graded center in the game according to PFF, and the line as a whole averages a PFF grade north of 70.

Honorable Mention: Joe Thuney, OG (Free Agent)

 

Las Vegas Raiders

Yannick Ngakoue, DE (Free Agent)
Ngakoue signed a 2 year, $26M free agent contract in LV, $8M of which is fully guaranteed in 2022 already. He and Maxx Crosby have been outstanding edge defenders to start the 2021 campaign.

Honorable Mention: Trevon Moehrig, S (#43 overall pick)

 

Los Angeles Chargers

The Offensive Line
No need to separate how good Matt Fieler (free agent, PIT), Rashawn Slater (#13 overall), & Corey Linsley (free agent, GB) have been to start 2021. Feiler is under contract through 2023, Slater & Linsley through 2025.

Honorable Mention: Jared Cook, TE (Free Agent)

 

Los Angeles Rams

Matthew Stafford, QB (Trade)
Stafford and the Rams’ offense has come back down to earth a bit since coming out of the shoot firing on all cylinders, but it’s still clear as day that he alone is a significant upgrade to this team’s contention chances. Stafford has 1 year, $23M left on his deal, so a big-time extension is highly likely over the coming months.

Honorable Mention: DeSean Jackson, WR (Free Agent)

 

Miami Dolphins

Jason McCourty, CB (Free Agent)
The Dolphins don’t have a lot of positives to point at thus far, so we’ll look to find value where it exists on this roster. McCourty has been consistent, especially in coverage, playing on a veteran minimum contract this season.

Honorable Mention: Brennan Scarlett, LB (Free Agent)

 

Minnesota Vikings

Dalvin Tomlinson, DT (Free Agent)
The Vikings locked in Tomlinson at 2 years, $21M, with $16M of that paid out this season. He factors into a Minnesota D-Line that has been well above average (76.5 rating) through the first 5 weeks. He’s an extension candidate this offseason.

Honorable Mention: Xavier Woods, S (Free Agent)

 

New England Patriots

Mac Jones, QB (#15 overall pick)
He’s got a long way to go, and might never have the production that stacks up with a Herbet or even Zach Wilson, but the decision making and moxy appear to be baked in out of the gate. Jones is fully guaranteed through 2024.

Honorable Mention: Matt Judon, DE (Free Agent)

 

New Orleans Saints

Pete Werner, LB (#60 overall pick)
Werner has progressed from an injured player in August, to a starter in October. He's got all the tools to be a fixure on the Saints' edge for the next few years at rookie contract value.

Honorable Mention: Tanoh Kpassagnon, DE (Free Agent)

 

New York Giants

Kadarius Toney, WR (#20 overall pick)
It took Toney a few weeks to find his footing in this offense, but he appears to be the real deal. The Giants have a surplus of WRs rostered (injuries aside), but Toney might finish 2021 as the best of them.

Honorable Mention: Kenny Golladay, WR (Free Agent)

 

New York Jets

Alijah Vera-Tucker, OG (#14 overall)
To be honest, the entire left side of the Jets O-Line has shown significant improvement, even without Mekhi Becton in the fold. Vera-Tucker is the perfect boring, yet crucially required high draft pick for a team with a young QB.

Honorable Mention: Corey Davis, WR (Free Agent)

 

Philadelphia Eagles

Kenneth Gainwell, RB (#150 overall pick)
Gainwell isn’t going to load up the stat sheets, but he’s shown to be a viable #2 option both as a 3 down runner and pass catcher. His 5th-round rookie contract represents extensive value going forward.

Honorable Mention: Steven Nelson, CB (Free Agent)

 

Pittsburgh Steelers

Melvin Ingram, EDGE (Free Agent)
Ingram didn’t sign until the middle of July, at 1 year, $4M. He’s rewarded Pittsburgh with 70% of their snaps, and above average production across the board.

Honorable Mention: Najee Harris, RB (#24 overall pick)

 

San Francisco 49ers

Elijah Mitchell, RB (#194 overall pick)
Mitchell’s only seen 120 snaps, but he’s shown to be a more complete, and thus far productive, back than 3rd rounder Trey Sermon. There’s a chance the Niners have found a strong late round depth piece here.

Honorable Mention: Alex Mack, C (Free Agent)

 

Seattle Seahawks

Al Woods, DT (Free Agent)
The former Jags defensive lineman is ranked 5th among interior defenders according to PFF. He’s more than outperforming a 1 year, $2.5M contract signed this past March.

Honorable Mention: Gabe Jackson, G (Free Agent)

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, Edge (#32 overall pick)
Tryon’s getting a masterclass education in his first season on the Buc’s pass rush unit, operating in about 40% of the snaps in rotation with a few All-Pro vets. He’s showing potential to be able to take the reins sooner rather than later.

Honorable Mention: Gio Bernard, RB (Free Agent)

 

Tennessee Titans

Julio Jones, WR (Trade)
Despite battling another injury, the 150 snaps the Titans have gotten from Jones have shown he’s still worth the price of admission. If they can get a stretch of games with both he and A.J. Brown at full strength, this offense may round back into form quickly. Jones has 2 years, $23M left through 2023 ($0 guaranteed).

Honorable Mention: Janoris Jenkins, CB (Free Agent)

 

Washington Football Team

Charles Leno, OT (Free Agent)
Leno was signed with words like “swing” and “depth” in mind, but he’s taken over the left tackle role, and performed well through 5 weeks. On a 1 year, $4M deal, Leno has a chance to cash in next March with a full season at this form.

Honorable Mention: Sam Cosmi, OT (#51 overall pick)
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NBA Final Roster Spot Analysis

Keith SmithOctober 11, 2021
Keith Smith plays NBA GM, assessing the final roster spots for each team, including financial impact, and his thoughts on how opening day rosters may look.

Atlanta Hawks

Available Standard Spots: 1

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Johnny Hamilton, A.J. Lawson, Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot, Jahlil Okafor

Financial Impact: Atlanta is right at the luxury tax line. Keeping either veteran (TLC or Okafor) will have the Hawks dodging the tax all season long.

The Hawks are currently dealing with injuries in both the frontcourt and on the wing. That means if they’re going to carry 15 players on standard deals, they’re choosing between Luwawu-Cabarrot and Okafor. Okafor fills more of an immediate need with both Clint Capela and Onyeka Okongwu limited.

 

Boston Celtics

Available Standard Spots: 1

Available Two-Way Spots: 1

Competitors Ryan Arcidiacono, Garrison Mathews, Juwan Morgan, Jabari Parker, Theo Pinson

Financial Impact: The Celtics are over the tax and won’t drop under it without a trade. They’d have to eat $100,000 if they waived Parker. That’s not a huge amount, but it could be enough to keep him around.

Boston doesn’t have any glaring needs roster-wise. Mathews, Morgan and Pinson all have Two-Way eligibility left, so one of them is probably headed that way. The best bet is that will be Mathews. That gives Parker a leg up on claiming the final standard spot.

 

Brooklyn Nets

Available Standard Spots: 1

Available Two-Way Spots: 1

Competitors DeAndre’ Bembry, Devontae Cacok, David Duke

Financial Impact: Brooklyn is so far beyond the luxury tax that it doesn’t matter how this shakes out. They did manage to save themselves about $6.9 million in actual dollars by swapping Doumbouya for Sumner in the trade/waiver game.

Brooklyn cleared the roster spot necessary to keep Bembry when they traded away Sekou Doumbouya. Brooklyn will waive Edmond Sumner, who is out for the season. Cacok or Duke will likely be converted to fill the open Two-Way spot.

 

Charlotte Hornets

Available Standard Spots: 0

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Vernon Carey Jr., D.J. Carton, Wesley Iwundu, Nick Richards, Xavier Sneed

Financial Impact: Charlotte is going to eat some salary no matter what. They have 16 guaranteed deals right now. But they are $19.7 million clear of the luxury tax line, which leaves plenty of room for flexibility.

Charlotte is going to make a couple easy cuts by waiving Carton and Sneed. Then it comes down to keeping an extra big (Carey or Richards) or an extra wing (Iwundu).

 

Chicago Bulls

Available Standard Spots: 2

Available Two-Way Spots: 1

Competitors Tyler Cook, Alize Johnson, Stanley Johnson, Daniel Oturu, Matt Thomas, Ethan Thompson

Financial Impact: Chicago is about $4.7 million clear of the luxury tax. That’s enough wiggle room to fill both standard spots and to keep things open for in-season moves.

The Bulls are dealing with some injuries as the season starts. They’re down both Patrick Williams and Coby White. Williams’ injury probably gives Stanley Johnson an edge in claiming a spot. Alize Johnson and Thomas are likely battling for the other spot. Cook, Oturu and Thompson are all in the mix to fill the open Two-Way position.

 

Cleveland Cavaliers

Available Standard Spots: 4

Available Two-Way Spots: 1

Competitors Mitch Ballock, Tacko Fall, Kyle Guy, Mfiondu Kabengele, R.J. Nembhard, Lamar Stevens, Denzel Valentine, Dean Wade

Financial Impact: The Cavs are only about $2.9 million under the luxury tax. That’s too close for comfort for a poor team. That could put Cleveland in a position to leave a standard roster spot open for a while.

Cleveland is in an interesting spot. They gave Valentine $500,000 guaranteed, so he’s probably claiming a spot. Dean Wade has seen rotation minutes, so he’s probably got a spot too. That leaves a pretty good battle for the final two standard spots and the Two-Way spot.

 

Dallas Mavericks

Available Standard Spots: 0

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Moses Brown, Trey Burke, Feron Hunt, Carlik Jones, Frank Ntilikina, Tyrell Terry

Financial Impact: Dallas is well clear of the luxury tax this season. Eating some dead money is no big deal now. Next season, things tighten up considerably as Luka Doncic’s max extension kicks in. That could be a factor in putting dead money for either Burke or Terry on the books for 2022-23.

The easy decision for the Mavericks is to waive Brown, Hunt and Jones. That’s also the most cost-effective, but Brown has a lot of upside. Frank Ntilikina likely has a spot locked in. Burke’s stance against getting vaccinated could play into moving on, but that would cost around $6.4 million total in dead money. Waiving Terry would cost about half of that.

 

Denver Nuggets

Available Standard Spots: 1

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Tarik Black, P.J. Dozier, Davon Reed, Matt Ryan

Financial Impact: Denver only has about $1.4 million in wiggle room under the tax. But Dozier has become a rotation player for them. They aren’t going to lose him because of tax concerns. If necessary, they’ll make a salary-dump trade later.

This one is cut and dry. Dozier will get the final standard roster spot for the Nuggets.

 

Detroit Pistons

Available Standard Spots: 0

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Jared Cunningham, Cassius Stanley, Derrick Walton Jr.

Financial Impact: Despite a league-high $45.5 million in dead money on the books, Detroit is still $11.4 million clear of the tax. No financial concerns when it comes to their roster here.

The Pistons cleared the necessary roster spots to keep all of their guaranteed contracts when they worked their recent trade with Brooklyn.

 

Golden State Warriors

Available Standard Spots: 2

Available Two-Way Spots: 1

Competitors Jordan Bell, Avery Bradley, Langston Galloway, Damion Lee, Mychal Mulder, Gary Payton II

Financial Impact: Like a fat guy and his feet, the Warriors are so far above the luxury tax that they can’t even see it anymore.

Golden State has one of the best roster battles in the league playing out. Lee is a lock to get one spot. Right now, Bradley has the advantage to claim the final spot. That would mean the Warriors would eat some money for Payton’s guarantee. Mulder can’t be directly converted to a Two-Way, but he’s a good bet to land there after being waived.

 

Houston Rockets

Available Standard Spots: 0

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Armoni Brooks, Daishen Nix, Khyri Thomas

Financial Impact: The Rockets are over $4 million clear of the tax. That’s enough space to make whatever moves they need to in-season.

When Houston added four rookies in the first round of the 2021 NBA Draft, they basically filled out their roster. Barring a John Wall trade that frees up roster spots, none of the players above will stick in Houston. In addition, one of them will be waived in order for Houston to complete the acquisition of Sekou Doumbouya from Brooklyn. And Doumbouya’s time with the Rockets will be short-lived, as he’ll be waived immediately after being acquired. Houston essentially bought a future second round pick in this deal.

 

Indiana Pacers

Available Standard Spots: 3

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Oshae Brissett, Nate Hinton, Kelan Martin, Keifer Sykes, Terry Taylor, Brad Wanamaker

Financial Impact: The Pacers cleared enough space under the luxury tax by salary dumping Edmond Sumner on Brooklyn. That will allow them to keep Brissett and Wanamaker, and maybe even Martin.

Brissett has become a rotation player for the Pacers and will remain one with T.J. Warren on the shelf. He’s staying. Brad Wanamaker probably has the inside track to the other spot. Martin has pushed his guarantee deadline back twice, in hopes of sticking around. It’s not really about his play though. It’s about Indiana’s desire to stay under the tax.

 

Los Angeles Clippers

Available Standard Spots: 1

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Harry Giles III, Isaiah Hartenstein, George King, Moses Wright

Financial Impact: LA zoomed past the tax line a while ago. They aren’t going to let that keep them from filling a need.

The Clippers have one open standard spot and it’s going to either Giles or Hartenstein. With Serge Ibaka still recovering from a back injury and Ivica Zubac the only other center on the roster, one of the camp bigs will make the team.

 

Los Angeles Lakers

Available Standard Spots: 2

Available Two-Way Spots: 1

Competitors Chaundee Brown, Mac McClung, Cameron Oliver, Trevelin Queen, Austin Reaves

Financial Impact: The Lakers are going to leave a roster spot open, but it’s not about luxury tax concerns. LA is $17.9 million over the tax line. They’re committed to being a tax team. This is more about flexibility to fill a need in-season.

When Reaves had his Two-Way deal converted to a standard contract, he locked in the Lakers 14th roster spot. Los Angeles will leave the 15th spot open into the season. The other four players are competing for the second Two-Way spot.

 

Memphis Grizzlies

Available Standard Spots: 0

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Shaq Buchanan, Jarrett Culver, Kris Dunn, John Konchar, Sean McDermott, Sam Merrill

Financial Impact: Memphis has over $11 million in dead money and will add between $1.5 million and $6.4 more to the tally. But the Grizzlies are well under the luxury tax line and have more than enough room for in-season maneuvering. Miami Heat – 1 open Standard spot, 0 open Two-Way spot.

The Grizzlies have had no issues eating guaranteed salary in the past. They’ll have to do it again this year. In fact, they’ve already eaten guaranteed money for five players. They’ll be cutting a decent player to get into roster compliance.

 

Miami Heat

Available Standard Spots: 1

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Micah Potter, Ja’Vonte Smart, Dru Smith, D.J. Stewart Jr.

Financial Impact: Miami is only about $250,000 under the tax. They’ll pay the tax if they have to, but that will come if they have an in-season need to fill. Thus, they’ll be leaving the 15th roster spot open for now.

Despite having an open roster spot, it’s likely all of the Heat’s training camp invites are ticketed for Sioux Falls in the G League.

 

Milwaukee Bucks

Available Standard Spots: 2

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Elijah Bryant, Javin DeLaurier, Georgios Kalaitzakis, Johnny O’Bryant, Tremont Waters

Financial Impact: Milwaukee is in unprecedented territory at about $18.9 million of the tax line. Such is the life when you’re the champs. But they won’t go any deeper into the tax unless they have to. That’s why they’ll leave the 15th spot open.

The Bucks drafted and signed Kalaitzakis in part to keep their tax bill down. Teams don’t face an increased tax penalty when they sign their own draft picks. He’s got a spot. The other standard spot will likely stay open.

 

Minnesota Timberwolves

Available Standard Spots: 2

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Brian Bowen II, Matt Lewis, Isaiah Miller, Jaylen Nowell, Chris Silva

Financial Impact: Minnesota is only $800,000 under the tax. Filling the 15th spot would push them into the tax. That’s not something a team in their position will do. If the season goes well, that could happen down the line to aid a playoff push.

Jaylen Nowell has one spot locked down. He’s carved out a semi-regular rotation role. The 15th spot will likely stay open.

 

New Orleans Pelicans

Available Standard Spots: 0

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Zylan Cheatham, Wenyen Gabriel, Jared Harper

Financial Impact: With $19.7 million under the tax, New Orleans can make whatever moves they need without worries.

The Pelicans roster is set. They gave recent draftees Herb Jones and Didi Louzada guaranteed money into 2022-23. Those signings locked things in.

 

New York Knicks

Available Standard Spots: 1

Available Two-Way Spots: 1

Competitors Dwayne Bacon, Wayne Selden, Aamir Simms, M.J. Walker

Financial Impact: New York is $19.1 million under the luxury tax line. They’ve got the flexibility to add salary throughout the year if they need to.

After waiving Luca Vildoza, the Knicks roster seems pretty set. Maybe Bacon or Selden plays well enough in the preseason to snag the 15th spot. Simms and Walker are competing for the open Two-Way spot.

 

Oklahoma City Thunder

Available Standard Spots: 2

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Gabriel Deck, Mamadi Diakite, Rob Edwards, Kenrich Williams, D.J. Wilson

Financial Impact: No team in the NBA is further below the tax than Oklahoma City is at $56.8 million. They’ve got all the room they could ever need to take on money without issue.

OKC is keeping Kenrich Williams. The final spot is probably between Deck and Diakite. The Thunder also aren’t averse to eating dead money as they rebuild, so a surprise waiver could be in play as well.

 

Orlando Magic

Available Standard Spots: 0

Available Two-Way Spots: 1

Competitors Jeff Dowtin, Hassani Gravett, Admiral Schofield, Jon Teske

Financial Impact: Orlando is $22.9 million under the luxury tax. That’s enough room to take on some salary in-season if the opportunity arises

The Magic have their standard roster set. The four camp invites are battling for the open Two-Way spot.

 

Phoenix Suns

Available Standard Spots: 1

Available Two-Way Spots: 1

Competitors Chasson Randle

Financial Impact: The Suns are about $8.2 million under the tax. That’s enough to do whatever they need to as far as in-season moves go.

The Suns are the only team in the league who didn’t bring extra players to training camp. Chasson Randle is there on a camp deal as the 15th man. That’s no guarantee he’ll get that final spot though. Phoenix has regularly left the 15th spot open.

 

Portland Trail Blazers

Available Standard Spots: 2

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Marquese Chriss, Quinn Cook, Patrick Patterson, Dennis Smith Jr.

Financial Impact: Portland is $1.3 million over the tax line. That’ll go up a bit more if they keep one of the veteran camp players. They’ll still be within range of a salary-clearing trade to dodge the tax, if necessary.

Portland will keep at least one of these veterans. It’s unclear if they need another frontcourt player or if they want some additional backcourt depth. They could go with both, but the Blazers have regularly left a spot open following the preseason.

 

Sacramento Kings

Available Standard Spots: 1

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Matt Coleman III, Chimezie Metu, D.J. Steward, Emanuel Terry

Financial Impact: Sacramento is $6.2 million under the tax line. They’ve still got about $5.8 million of their Non-Taxpayer MLE left. That’s enough room to make a move in-season.

The Kings don’t really need to keep Metu as a fifth center, but they already guaranteed him almost $900,000. He’s getting that final roster spot.

 

San Antonio Spurs

Available Standard Spots: 0

Available Two-Way Spots: 1

Competitors Al-Farouq Aminu, Keita Bates-Diop, Drew Eubanks, Jock Landale

Financial Impact: San Antonio is almost $18 million clear of the tax. They can take on some salary if/when they trade Young and still stay well under the tax.

The Spurs have 17 fully guaranteed contracts. That makes for some healthy competition for roster spots. The bet here is that Aminu goes, as he was a salary-matching throw-in in the DeMar DeRozan sign-and-trade with Chicago. Landale was brought over from Australia, so he probably sticks too. And Eubanks has been a rotation player the last two seasons. That leaves Bates-Diop on the outside looking in…unless a Thaddeus Young trade opens up a roster spot somehow.

 

Toronto Raptors

Available Standard Spots: 3

Available Two-Way Spots: 0

Competitors Isaac Bonga, Sam Dekker, Freddie Gillespie, Reggie Perry, Ishmail Wainright, Yuta Watanabe

Financial Impact: The Raptors are in a weird spot. They aren’t a terrible team, but aren’t a playoff lock either. That makes being about $4 million into the tax an untenable place to be. That’ll come down some after the camp cuts, but look for Toronto to shed some further salary if they can.

Toronto was the only team to hand out significant guaranteed money to players that fighting for roster spots. It used to be a regular occurrence, but after the pandemic-impacted seasons, most teams were very conservative this offseason. For the Raptors, that means a great battle to monitor. Watanabe is probably a lock to get one spot. He’s been a rotation player in the past. Wainright got guaranteed money both this season and next. He probably stays too. And Toronto will likely carry 15 players, due to injuries already impacting the roster. Look for whoever plays best out of Bonga, Dekker and Gillespie to snag that final spot.

 

Utah Jazz

Available Standard Spots: 2

Available Two-Way Spots: 1

Competitors Derrick Alston, Marques Bolden, Malik Fitts, Miye Oni, MaCio Teague

Financial Impact: The Jazz are deeper into the tax than they’ve ever been, as they are about $16.4 million over the line. The new ownership group said they’d spend for a contender, and they’ve got one. But don’t expect them to add more salary unless they really need to.

Oni is a lock to get one of Utah’s open spots. The other four players are likely competing for the open Two-Way spot. Utah will leave one roster spot open for in-season flexibility.

 

Washington Wizards

Available Standard Spots: 1

Available Two-Way Spots: 1

Competitors Jaime Echenique, Daniel Gafford, Jordan Goodwin, Jay Huff, Jordan Schakel

Financial Impact: Washington has pushed it about as close as they can to the tax without going over. They’re just under $1 million shy. Don’t expect the Wizards to go into the tax for a team that isn’t a lock to make the playoffs.

This one is simple: Daniel Gafford has that final roster spot locked up. He’s also the Wizards starting center until Thomas Bryant returns, and may keep the job even then. The other four camp players are fighting for the second Two-Way spot.

 

The 2021 NBA Offseason Financial Report

Scott AllenOctober 05, 2021

OKC's Cap Space

While the Oklahoma City Thunder did extend Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for 5 year $172.55 million this doesn’t kick in until the 2022-23 season leaving Oklahoma City as the only team under the cap going into the regular season ($21.67 million space).

Similar Pathers for the Lakers & Nets

The Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets facilitated trades, but focused on signing veteran minimum players. Brooklyn’s focus was on veteran big men while Los Angeles’ focus was on veteran role players at all positions.

Memphis was the hub of offseason trades

  • Acquired Steven Adams, Jarrett Culver
  • Acquired & Flipped: Patrick Beverley
  • Acquired & Waived: Marc Gasol, Rajon Rondo

Regarding the Luxury Tax

  • 10 teams are currently over the luxury tax: Golden State, Brooklyn, Los Angeles Clippers, Milwaukee, Utah, Los Angeles Lakers, Toronto, Boston, Philadelphia, Portland
  • 4 teams are currently $1 million within the luxury tax: Miami, Indiana, Minnesota, Washington
  • Golden State is considered a tax repeater. Currently their estimated tax bill is $184 million.

Notable Notes

Most Cap Allocated: Warriors, $186M
Most Dead Cap Accrued: Pistons, $45M
Hard-Capped Teams: 11
Oldest team: Los Angeles Lakers (avg age 30.6)
Youngest team: Oklahoma City Thunder (avg age 22.9)

Sign & Trades

There were 10 Sign-and-Trade contracts: Kyle Lowry, Spencer Dinwiddie, Devonte’ Graham, Daniel Theis, Lonzo Ball, Doug McDermott, Garrett Temple, DeMar DeRozan, Evan Fournier, Lauri Markkanen. For reference, there were 7 sign and trades last offseason, 9 in 2019, 0 in 2018, & 1 in 2017.

Signing the Big Bucks

At 4 years, $176M, Kawhi Leonard signed the highest free agent contract this offseason, while Stephen Curry became the first player to sign two $200+ million contracts with his new 4 year, $215 million extension in Golden State (kicks in 2022-23 season).

Veteran Buyouts

Multiple players agreed to buyouts: Kemba Walker (gave back $20 million), DeAndre Jordan (gave back $4 million), Rajon Rondo (gave back $2.64 million)

2021 NBA Offseason Spending

With sizeable contracts for Leonard and Reggie Jackson, the Clippers led the way in terms of free agent spending this offseason. The Nuggets did the most damage in extending their own, locking in $259M of new contracts to Aaron Gordon, Michael Porter Jr., etc...Meanhile the Pistons and Magic allocated more than $50M to new draft signings this summer, tops in the league. *Odds provided by FanDuel Sportsbook

Team Extensions Free Agency Draft Signings Offseason Total 20-21 Win % 21-22 Odds*
Atlanta Hawks $218,431,280 $138,328,991 $12,888,651 $369,648,922 0.569 +4000
Miami Heat $146,396,031 $209,471,040   $355,867,071 0.556 +2500
New York Knicks $117,089,280 $202,280,580 $15,453,035 $334,822,895 0.569 +10000
Dallas Mavericks $207,060,000 $121,863,974   $328,923,974 0.583 +3000
Denver Nuggets $259,190,001 $30,801,537 $10,763,120 $300,754,658 0.653 +2500
Golden State Warriors $215,353,664 $7,120,780 $41,879,184 $264,353,628 0.542 +1200
Philadelphia 76ers $195,921,600 $44,166,537 $14,718,813 $254,806,950 0.681 +2000
Brooklyn Nets $194,219,320 $24,580,614 $20,773,413 $239,573,347 0.667 +210
Los Angeles Clippers   $212,363,471 $16,979,089 $229,342,560 0.653 +1600
Oklahoma City Thunder $172,550,000 $7,000,000 $49,150,466 $228,700,466 0.306 +25000
Chicago Bulls   $212,918,366 $6,813,648 $219,732,014 0.431 +7000
Cleveland Cavaliers   $175,025,991 $36,664,449 $211,690,440 0.306 +25000
Charlotte Hornets $96,258,694 $34,225,000 $39,210,459 $169,694,153 0.458 +12000
Phoenix Suns   $152,488,992   $152,488,992 0.708 +1500
Boston Celtics $136,684,090 $8,531,691   $145,215,781 0.500 +5000
Houston Rockets   $58,705,510 $79,628,728 $138,334,238 0.236 +25000
New Orleans Pelicans   $115,703,555 $20,100,631 $135,804,186 0.431 +10000
Detroit Pistons   $76,018,312 $50,055,692 $126,074,004 0.278 +25000
Toronto Raptors   $81,457,936 $35,553,404 $117,011,340 0.375 +10000
Portland Trail Blazers   $97,168,923 $4,324,872 $101,493,795 0.583 +8000
San Antonio Spurs   $74,646,713 $18,415,445 $93,062,158 0.458 +16000
Sacramento Kings   $71,173,160 $20,951,911 $92,125,071 0.431 +24000
Utah Jazz   $88,995,037 $2,488,776 $91,483,813 0.722 +1500
Washington Wizards   $56,089,448 $23,252,740 $79,342,188 0.472 +10000
Indiana Pacers   $43,600,000 $29,860,898 $73,460,898 0.472 +11000
Orlando Magic   $11,249,628 $52,738,149 $63,987,777 0.292 +25000
Los Angeles Lakers   $61,070,939   $61,070,939 0.583 +450
Minnesota Timberwolves   $19,602,000 $11,805,395 $31,407,395 0.319 +20000
Memphis Grizzlies     $30,151,777 $30,151,777 0.528 +8500
Milwaukee Bucks   $24,549,317 $4,324,872 $28,874,189 0.639 +800

 

Atlanta Hawks Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: $1.87M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $140.4 million
Notable Players Signed: John Collins (5 yr, $120M)
Lou Williams (1 yr , $5M)

Draft Picks
Jalen Johnson (4 yr, $12.89M)
Sharife Cooper (1 year, Two-Way)

Extensions
Total Signed Value: $218M
Trae Young (5 yr, $172.5M)
Clint Capela (2 yr $45.44M - begins 2023-24 season)

Trades
Players In: Delon Wright ($8.5M)
Players Out: Kris Dunn ($5M), Bruno Fernando ($1.78M)

Boston Celtics Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: -$6.83M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $11.9M
Notable Players Signed
Dennis Schroder (1 yr, $5.89M)
Enes Kanter (1 yr $2.64M)

Draft Picks
None

Extensions
Total Signed Value: $136.6M
Marcus Smart (4 yr, $76.5M)
Robert Williams III (4 yr, $48M)
Josh Richardson (1 yr, $12.2M

Trades
Players In: Josh Richardson ($10.87M), Kris Dunn ($5M), Bruno Fernando ($1.78M), Juan Hernangomez ($7M)
Players Out: Tristan Thompson ($9.72M), Kris Dunn ($5M)

Brooklyn Nets Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: -$36M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $29.3M
Notable Players Signed:
Patrick Mills (2 yr, $12M)
Bruce Brown Jr. (1 yr, $4.74M), Paul Millsap, LaMarcus Aldridge, Blake Griffin, James Johnson (1 yr, $2.64M)

Draft Picks
Cameron Thomas (4 yr $10.45M)
Day'Ron Sharpe (4 yr, $10.3M)
Kessler Edwards (1 yr, Two -Way)

Extensions
Total Signed Value: $194.2M
Kevin Durant (4 yr $194.22M)

Trades
Players In: Jevon Carter ($3.65M), Day’Ron Sharpe, Jahlil Okafor ($2.13M, waived), Sekou Doumbouya ($3.6M), rights to Nikola Milutinov
Players Out: Spencer Dinwiddie (via Sign-and-Trade), DeAndre Jordan ($9.88M), Landry Shamet ($3.77M)

Charlotte Hornets Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: $19.7M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $34.2M
Notable Players Signed:
Kelly Oubre Jr. (2 yr, $25M)
Ish Smith (2 yr, $9.2M)

Draft Picks
James Bouknight (4 yr, $19.15M)
Kai Jones (4 yr, $13.42M)
JT Thor (4 yr $6.63M)
Scottie Lewis (1 year, Two-Way)

Extensions
Total Signed Value: $96.26M
Terry Rozier (4 yr, $96.26M)

Trades
Players In: Mason Plumlee ($8.97M), Wesley Iwundu ($1.82M)
Players Out: Devonte’ Graham ($11M)

Chicago Bulls Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: Yes
Tax Space: $4.7M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $212.9M
Notable Players Signed:
DeMar DeRozan (3 yr, $85M)
Lonzo Ball (4 yr, $80M), Alex Caruso (4 yr, $37M)

Draft Picks
Ayo Dosunmu (2 year, $2.49M)
Marko Simonovic (3 year $4.32M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: DeMar DeRozan (3 yr $81.9M via Sign-and-Trade), Lonzo Ball (4 yr $80M via Sign-and-Trade), Derrick Jones Jr. ($9.72M)
Players Out: Lauri Markkanen (via Sign-and-Trade), Thaddeus Young ($14.19M), Al-Farouq Aminu ($10.18M), Tomas Satoransky ($10M), Garrett Temple (via Sign-and-Trade), Daniel Theis (via Sign-and-Trade)

Cleveland Cavaliers Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: Yes
Tax Space: $3.2M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $170.9M
Notable Players Signed:
Jarrett Allen (5 yr, $100M)
Lauri Markkanen (4 yr, $67.4M via Sign-and-Trade)

Draft Picks
Evan Mobley (4 yr, $36.66M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: Lauri Markkanen (4 yr, $67.4M via Sign-and-Trade), Ricky Rubio ($17M) Players Out: Larry Nance Jr. ($10.69M), Taurean Prince ($12.25M)

Dallas Mavericks Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: Yes
Tax Space: $18.2M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $121.8M
Notable Players Signed:
Tim Hardaway Jr (4 yr, $75M)
Reggie Bullock (3 yr, $30M)

Draft Picks
None

Extensions
Total Signed Value: $207M
Luka Doncic (5 yr, $207M)

Trades
Players In: Moses Brown ($1.7M)
Players Out: Josh Richardson ($10.87M)

Denver Nuggets Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: $1.4M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $30.8M
Notable Players Signed:
JaMychal Green (2 yr, $16.4M), Jeff Green (2 yr, $9M)

Draft Picks
Nah’Shon Hyland (4 yr, $10.76M)

Extensions
Total Signed Value: $259M
Michael Porter Jr. (5 yr, $172M), Aaron Gordon (4 yr, $86.6M)

Trades
Players In: None
Players Out: None

Detroit Pistons Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: $10.7M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $76M
Notable Players Signed:
Kelly Olynyk (3 yr, $37.2M)

Draft Picks
Cade Cunningham (4 yr $45.6M)
Isaiah Livers (3 yr, $4.46M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: DeAndre Jordan ($9.88M, waived via buyout)
Players Out: Mason Plumlee ($8.97M), JT Thor, Jahlil Okafor ($2.13M, waived), Sekou Doumbouya ($3,613,680)

Golden State Warriors Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: -$41.3M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $11.5M
Notable Players Signed:
Avery Bradley / Andre Iguodala (1 yr, $2.64M)
Otto Porter Jr (1 yr, $2.39M)

Draft Picks
Jonathan Kaminga (4 yr, $24.8M), Moses Moody (4 yr, $17M)

Extensions
Total Signed Value: $215.3M
Stephen Curry (4 yr, $215.3M)

Trades
Players In: None
Players Out: Eric Paschall ($1.78M)

Houston Rockets Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: Yes
Tax Space: $7.9M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $60.19M
Notable Players Signed:
Daniel Theis (4 yr, $35.6M)
David Nwaba (3 yr, $15M), Dante Exum (3 yr, $8.1M)

Draft Picks
Jalen Green (4 yr, $40.81M)
Alperen Sengun (4 yr, $15.5M)
Usman Garuba (4 yr, $11.81M)
Josh Christopher (4 yr, $11.46M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: Daniel Theis (4 yr $35.6M via Sign-and-Trade), Alperen Sengun
Players Out: None

Indiana Pacers Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: $763k

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $45M
Notable Players Signed:
T.J. McConnell (4 yr, $33.6M)
Torrey Craig (2 yr, $10M)

Draft Picks
Chris Duarte (4 yr, $17.7M)
Isaiah Jackson (4 yr, $12.16M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: Isaiah Jackson, Isaiah Todd
Players Out: Doug McDermott (via Sign-and-Trade), Aaron Holiday($3.89 million), Isaiah Todd

Los Angeles Clippers Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: -$29.6M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $214.5M
Notable Players Signed:
Kawhi Lenoard (4 yr, $176.27M), Reggie Jackson (2 yr, $21.60M)

Draft Picks
Keon Johnson (4 yr, $12.52M), Jason Preston (3 yr, $4.46M), Brandon Boston Jr. (3 yr, $4.32M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: Eric Bledsoe ($18.13 million), Keon Johnson, Jason Preston, Brandon Boston Jr.
Players Out: Rajon Rondo ($8.25 million), Patrick Beverley ($14.32 million), Daniel Oturu ($1.52 million)

Los Angeles Lakers Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: -$17M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $61M
Notable Players Signed:
Talen Horton-Tucker (3 yr, $30.78M)
Kendrick Nunn (2 yr, $10.25M), DeAndre Jordan / Rajon Rondo / Trevor Ariza / Carmelo Anthony / Dwight Howard / Wayne Ellington (1 yr, $2.64M)

Draft Picks
None

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: Russell Westbrook ($44.21M), Wang Zhelin
Players Out: Marc Gasol ($2.69M), Kyle Kuzma ($13M), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope ($13.04M), Montrezl Harrell ($9.72M)

Memphis Grizzlies Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: $22M

Free Agent Signings
None

Draft Picks
Ziaire Williams (4 yr, $19.9M), Santi Aldama (4 yr, $10.24M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: Steven Adams ($17.07M), Eric Bledsoe ($18.13M), Patrick Beverley ($14.32M), Rajon Rondo (waived), Carsen Edwards ($1.78M, waived), Kris Dunn ($5.0M), Marc Gasol ($2.69M, waived), Juan Hernangomez ($6.18M), Jarrett Culver ($6.40M), Patrick Beverley ($14.32M), Ziaire Williams, Jared Butler, Santi Aldama
Players Out: Patrick Beverley ($14.32M), Jonas Valaciunas ($14M), Juan Hernangomez ($6.18M), Wang Zhelin, Jared Butler, Brandon Boston Jr, Trey Murphy

Miami Heat Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: Yes
Tax Space: $436k

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $209M
Notable Players Signed:
Duncan Robinson (5 yr, $89.91M), Kyle Lowry (3 yr, $85M), PJ Tucker (2 yr, $14.35M)

Draft Picks
None

Extensions
Jimmy Butler (3 yr, $146.40M - begins in 2023-24 season)

Trades
Players In: Kyle Lowry (3 yr, $85M via Sign-and-Trade)
Players Out: Goran Dragic ($19.44M), Precious Achiuwa ($2.71M)

Milwaukee Bucks Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: -$18.9M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $26.2M
Notable Players Signed:
Bobby Portis (2 yr, $8.91M), George Hill (2 yr, $8M)

Draft Picks
Georgios Kalaitzakis (3 yr, $4.32M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: Grayson Allen ($4.05M)
Players Out: Sam Merrill ($1.57M), Sandro Mamukelashvili, Georgios Kalaitzakis, Isaiah Todd

Minnesota Timberwolves Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: $872k

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $21.2M
Notable Players Signed:
Jarred Vanderbilt (3 yr, $13.12M), Jordan McLaughlin (4 yr, $6.48M)

Draft Picks
Leonard Bolmaro (4 yr, $11.81M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: Patrick Beverley ($14.32M), Taurean Prince ($12.25M)
Players Out: Ricky Rubio ($17M), Juan Hernangomez ($6.18M), Jarrett Culver ($6.40M)

New Orleans Pelicans Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: Yes
Tax Space: $19.9M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $115.7M
Notable Players Signed:
Devonte’ Graham (4 yr, $47.3M), Josh Hart (3 yr, $37.92M), Garrett Temple (3 yr, $15.37M)

Draft Picks
Trey Murphy III (4 yr, $14.78M), Herbert Jones (3 yr, $5.32M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: Devonte’ Graham (4 yr, $47.3M via Sign-and-Trade), Garrett Temple (3 yr, $15.37M via Sign-and-Trade), Jonas Valanciunas ($14M), Tomas Satoransky ($10M)
Players Out: Lonzo Ball (via Sign-and-Trade), Steven Adams ($17.08M), Eric Bledsoe ($18.13M), Ziarie Williams, Jared Butler, Brandon Boston Jr

New York Knicks Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: Yes
Tax Space: $15.8M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $202.2M
Notable Players Signed:
Evan Fournier (4 yr, $73M), Derrick Rose (3 yr, $43.56M), Alec Burks (3 yr, $30M), Nerlens Noel (3 yr, $27.72M), Kemba Walker (2 yr, $17.89M), Taj Gibson (2 yr, $10.017M)

Draft Picks
Quentin Grimes (4 yr, $11.13M), Miles McBride (3 yr, $4.32M)

Extensions
Julius Randle (4 yr, $117.09M)

Trades
Players In: Evan Fournier (4 yr, $73M via Sign-and-Trade), Miles McBride, Rokas Jokubaitis, Quentin Grimes
Players Out: Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, Kai Jones, Keon Johnson

Oklahoma City Thunder Cap Status: Under
Hard-Capped: Yes
Tax Space: $57M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $8.7M
Notable Players Signed:
Mike Muscala (2 yr, $7M)

Draft Picks
Vit Krejci (4 yr, $6.31M), Jeremiah Robinson-Earl (4 yr, $7.89M), Tre Mann (4 yr, $14.05M)

Extensions
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (5 yr, $172.55M)

Trades
Players In: Kemba Walker ($34.38M, waived via buyout), Derrick Favors ($9.26M), Jeremiah Robinson-Earl
Players Out: Al Horford ($27.5M), Moses Brown ($1.25M), Alperen Sengun, Rokas Jokubaitis, Miles McBride

Orlando Magic Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: $22.9M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $11.25M
Notable Players Signed:
Robin Lopez (1 yr, $5M), Moritz Wagner (2 yr, $3.61M)

Draft Picks
Jalen Suggs (4 yr, $29.96M), Franz Wagner (4 yr, $22.78M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: None
Players Out: Jason Preston

Philadelphia 76ers Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: -$6.3M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $30.96M
Notable Players Signed:
Danny Green (2 yr, $20M), Georges Niang (2 yr, $6.77M), Andre Drummond (1 yr, $2.4M)

Draft Picks
Charles Bassey (3 yr, $4.32M)

Extensions
Joel Embiid (4 yr, $195M - begins 2023-24 season)

Trades
Players In: None
Players Out: None

Phoenix Suns Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: $8.2M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $154.2M
Notable Players Signed:
Chris Paul (4 yr $120M), Cameron Payne (3 yr, $19M), JaVale McGee (1 yr, $5M)

Draft Picks
None

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: Landry Shamet ($3.77M)
Players Out: Jevon Carter ($3.65M), Day’Ron Sharpe

Portland Trail Blazers Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: -$1.3M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $101.6M
Notable Players Signed:
Norman Powell (5 yr, $90M)

Draft Picks
Greg Brown III (3 yr $4.32M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: Larry Nance Jr. ($10.69M)
Players Out: Derrick Jones Jr. ($9.72M)

Sacramento Kings Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: $5.5M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $71.7M
Notable Players Signed:
Richaun Holmes (4 yr, $46.52M), Mo Harkless (2 yr, $9M), Terence Davis (2 yr, $8M), Alex Len (2 yr, $7.65M)

Draft Picks
Davion Mitchell (4 yr, $20.95M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: Tristan Thompson ($9.72M)
Players Out: Delon Wright ($8.53M)

San Antonio Spurs Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: Yes
Tax Space: $18.7M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $74.6M
Notable Players Signed:
Doug McDermott (3 yr, $42M via Sign-and-Trade), Zach Collins (3 yr $22.05M)

Draft Picks
Joshua Primo (4 yr, $18.42M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: Thaddeus Young ($14.19M), Al-Farouq Aminu ($10.18M), Doug McDermott (via Sign-and-Trade), Chandler Hutchinson ($4.02M, waived & signed to Two-Way)
Players Out: DeMar DeRozan (via Sign-and-Trade), Nikola Milutinov

Toronto Raptors Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: Yes
Tax Space: -$9.8M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $80.4M
Notable Players Signed:
Gary Trent Jr. (3 yr, $51.84M), Khem Birch (3 yr, $20.0M)

Draft Picks
Scottie Barnes (4 yr, $33.06M), Dalano Banton (3 yr, $2.49M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: Goran Dragic ($19.44M), Precious Achiuwa ($2.71 M)
Players Out: Kyle Lowry (via Sign-and-Trade)

Utah Jazz Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: No
Tax Space: -$18.1M

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $90.6M
Notable Players Signed:
Mike Conley (3 yr, $68.04M), Rudy Gay (3 yr, $18.55M)

Draft Picks
Jared Butler (2 yr, $2.49M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: Eric Paschall ($1.78M), Jared Butler
Players Out: Derrick Favors ($9.26M), Santi Aldama

Washington Wizards Cap Status: Over
Hard-Capped: Yes
Tax Space: $908k

Free Agent Signings
Total Spending: $56.9M
Notable Players Signed:
Spencer Dinwiddie (3 yr, $54M)

Draft Picks
Corey Kispert (4 yr, $16.36M), Isaiah Todd (4 yr, $6.89M)

Extensions
None

Trades
Players In: Spencer Dinwiddie (3 yr, $54M via Sign-and-Trade), Kyle Kuzma ($13M), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope ($13.04M), Montrezl Harrell ($9.72M), Aaron Holiday ($3.98M), Isaiah Todd
Players Out: Russell Westbrook ($44.21M), Chandler Hutchinson ($4.02M)

nba team-all

2021 MLB Incentives & Bonuses

Michael GinnittiOctober 04, 2021

A look at MLB players who earned bonuses or escalators based on their production over the past 162 regular season games.

Braves
Jorge Soler, $200,000 bonus

Red Sox
Garrett Richards, $1M bonus
Hunter Renfroe, $600,000 bonus
HIrokazu Sawamura, $400,000 bonus
Hansel Robles, $75,000 bonus

Cubs
Austin Romine, $500,000 bonus

White Sox
Ryan Tepera, $950,000 bonus

Reds
Wade Miley, $150,000 bonus

Cleveland
Bryan Shaw, $1.45M bonus

Rockies
Charlie Blackmon, 2023 player option escalated to $18M
Elias Diaz, $100,000 bonus

Tigers
Robbie Grossman, $500,000 bonus
Jose Urena, $200,000 bonus

Astros
Jason Castro, $750,000 2022 escalator
Yuli Gurriel, $2M bonus
Kendall Graveman, $500,000 bonus

Royals
Michael A. Taylor, $250,000 bonus
Carlos Santana, $250,000 bonus
Greg Holland, $1M bonus

Dodgers
Walker Buehler, $3M escalator earned
Austin Barnes, $100,000 escalator earned

Marlins
Jesus Aguilar, $150,000 bonus earned

Twins
Kenta Maeda, $2.5M bonus earned

Mets
Trevor May, $250,000 bonus
Aaron Loup, $250,000 bonus
Trevor Williams, $350,000 bonus

Athletics
Andrew Chafin, $500,000 bonus
Yusmeiro Petit, $450,000 bonus
Josh Harrison, $250,000 bonus

Phillies
Kyle Gibson, $1.5M bonus
Hector Neris, $20,000

Padres
Craig Stammen, $500,000 bonus
Mark Melancon, $2M bonus

Giants
Anthony DeSclafani, $125,000 bonus
Alex Wood, $2M bonus
Curt Casali, $500,000 bonus

Rays
Mike Zunino, 2022 option escalated to $7M
Matt Wisler, $50,000 bonus

Potential NFL Trade Deadline Quarterbacks & Offensive Weapons

Michael GinnittiOctober 03, 2021

The November 2nd NFL trade deadline is just a month away, and plenty of names have already hit the rumor mill in this regard. We’ve compiled a list of quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, and tight ends that could be considered candidates for the upcoming trade deadline based on team performance, depth chart placement, or contract status.

For each, we’ve included the remaining 2021 cash salary at the November 2nd deadline (Deadline Salary), and the dead cap that would remain with their previous team, split over this and next season in some cases where relevant.

 

Deshaun Watson QB • 26 • HOU Deadline Salary: $5.8M
Dead Cap: 2021: $10M; 2022: $16.2M

While the NFL sits on its hands with Watson’s legal situation, it doesn’t appear other teams will be doing so in terms of his future in the league. Trade rumors in both Miami and Philadelphia have picked up steam, and while Watson has a no trade clause, it’s hard to imagine him turning down a legitimate offer from either franchise.

Jimmy Garoppolo QB • 29 • SF Deadline Salary: $13.85M
Dead Cap: 2021: $13M; 2022: $1.4M

Is it likely that the Niners move on from Garoppolo all together during this season? No. But if Trey Lance hits the ground running once his opportunity comes, QB-needy teams will be calling. It only takes one team to overpay.

Nick Foles QB • 32 • CHI Deadline Salary: $2.2M
Dead Cap: 2021: $4.4M; 2022: $2.6M

Foles is certainly overpriced for his current QB3 status, and what’s more, $4M of his 2022 compensation is already fully guaranteed as well. Chicago likely eats a good portion of that to make any sort of deal, but teams like Washington, Pittsburgh, or the Jets could find value in bringing Foles onboard.

Tua TagovailoaQB • 23 • MIA Deadline Salary: $433k
Dead Cap: 2021: $6.4M; 2022: $9.7M

For now, the rumor mills have the Dolphins and Eagles pegged as favorites to acquire Deshaun Watson in the coming weeks. Assuming as such, it’s fair to assess that either Tua or Jalen would be compensation heading back to Houston, at least for the interim.

Jalen HurtsQB • 23 • PHI Deadline Salary: $491k
Dead Cap: 2021: $878k; 2022: $970k

For now, the rumor mills have the Dolphins and Eagles pegged as favorites to acquire Deshaun Watson in the coming weeks. Assuming as such, it’s fair to assess that either Tua or Jalen would be compensation heading back to Houston, at least for the interim.

Marlon Mack RB • 25 • IND Deadline Salary: $555k
Dead Cap: 2021: $1.4M

Mack’s return to Indy was supposed to work out better than this, but just 4 weeks in, both sides appear ready to move on. An under-minimum remaining salary should be attractive ro RB-needy teams such as SF, NE, or CAR.

David Johnson RB • 29 • HOU Deadline Salary: $1.1M
Dead Cap: 2021: $3.9M

Johnson heavily restructured his contract to stick around, but he’s seen just 35% of the snaps thus far. If Houston’s season continues to tumble, Johnson’s ability to catch out of the backfield should attract interest among contenders.

Mark Ingram RB • 31 • HOU Deadline Salary: $1.1M
Dead Cap: 2021: $1.4M

The Texans are little less invested in Ingram than Johnson financially, but he’s seem the lion’s share of rushing attempts thus far. It seems likely that they move on from one of these players before the deadline.

Brandin Cooks WR • 28 • HOU Deadline Salary: $1.1M
Dead Cap: 2021: $1.4M

Cooks is just 28 years old, and is producing well for a not so great Houston offense. He’s been an impact trade to contenders before, and very well could be again in 2021.

N’Keal Harry WR • 23 • NE Deadline Salary: $785k
Dead Cap: 2021: $1.96M; 2022: $1.34M

Rumored to be on the block this past offseason, Harry hasn’t yet found his stride in the pros, and a preseason injury derailed his opportunity this far in 2021. Only half of his 2022 salary is guaranteed.

JuJu Smith-Schuster WR • 24 • PIT Deadline Salary: $555k
Dead Cap: 2021: $1.8M; 2022: $5.6M

After scouring the free agent market, Smith-Schuster ran it back with Ben on a 1 year deal. A rib injury has limited his start, but it’s impossible to think he can’t help a contender down the stretch should the Steelers crash in burn over the next month. He’s also extremely afforable.

Andy Isabella WR • 25 • ARZ Deadline Salary: $508k
Dead Cap: 2021: $753k; 2022: $346k

The Cardinals loaded up on veteran talent this offseason, forcing Isabella out of a WR role, into returner mode exclusively. Rondale Moore has already shown he’s capable of handling all of this and more in his short start, putting Isabella’s non-guaranteed future in question.

Denzel Mims WR • 23 • NYJ Deadline Salary: $476k
Dead Cap: 2021: $758k; 2022: $755k

The 2020 #59 overall pick is certainly being slow-played in into a role with the Jets, to the point of where teams have started to inquire about his availability. This one seems unlikely, but we never rule the Jets out of anything. Mims has no future guarantees after 2021.

Allen Robinson WR • 28 • CHI Deadline Salary: $9.9M
Dead Cap: 2021: $8M

Should the Bears keep Robinson in order to slap a $21.4M 2nd franchise tag on him in 2022? Maybe. But Chicago needs an offensive line as much as they need weapons for their young QB, and adding relevant draft capital now will go a long way in helping that. Robinson is only on this list because of the value he holds

Zach Ertz TE • 30 • PHI Deadline Salary: $7.9M
Dead Cap: 2021: $7.9M; 2022: $3.5M

It was a huge surprise that Ertz broke camp as a member of the Eagles, and with Philly’s season turning downward quickly, it’ll be a surprise if he remains there past the deadline. He’s been targeted sparingly early on in 2021, and is set to become a UFA after the season.

OJ Howard TE • 26 • TB Deadline Salary: $3.3M
Dead Cap: 2021: $2.67M

The Buccaneers are probably looking to ADD as many weapons as possible rather than subtract, but Howard simply isn’t a factor in this offense. He is however a solid insurance policy for Gronkowski & Brate, both of whom have injury histories of late, so this is an unlikely move right now. Howard is finishing off the 5th year option from his rookie contract in 2021, set to become a UFA next spring.

Evan Engram TE • 27 • NYG Deadline Salary: $3.3M
Dead Cap: 2021: $2.67M

Like Howard, Engram is finishing off the 5th year option on his rookie contract, set to become a free agent (or franchise tag candidate) after 2021. His 2020 campaign was a step forward, but injuries have slowed him building upon that this season thus far. The Giants might be one of the worst teams in football come deadline time, and selling off expiring parts then wouldn’t be crazy.

nfl nfl trade deadline team-all

Projecting the Top 2022 MLB Free Agents

Michael GinnittiSeptember 21, 2021

Our annual MLB free agent piece breaks down notable players from each position group, highlighting their expected path toward the open market, a calculated valuation, and a likely projection for their next contract.

Related Views
2022 MLB Free Agents
2022 Options Tracker
2022 MLB Tax Payrolls

Starting Pitchers
Max Scherzer SP • 37 • LAD Calculated: 1 yr, $35M ($35M AAV)
Likely: 2 yr, $68M ($34M AAV)

He’s most likely on his way to Cy Young #4, and potentially World Series #2, so anyone who thought the Dodgers were picking up “just another arm” have already been proven wrong. Scherzer’s already cashed in plenty, so this next contract will be much more about fit & contention than dollar signs, but he’ll still find a few of those as well. Scherzer & Kershaw's contracts will be directly impacted by Trevor Bauer's roster status. If his legal issues keep him on the restricted list, the Dodgers will free up $34M of tax space in 2022. We'll slot Scherzer into that space.

Robbie RaySP • 30 • TOR Calculated: 5 yrs, $90M ($18M AAV)
Likely: 5 yrs, $100M ($20M AAV)

A late Blue Jays surge could prove financially effective for Ray, who’s far exceeded his $8M salary in 2021. Ray’s 6.3 WAR is second among pitchers to only Zach Wheeler, as are his 220 strikeouts. He’s heading for a 5 year, $90M contract in our system right now.

Clayton Kershaw SP • 34 • LAD Calculated: 3 yrs, $95M ($31.6M AAV)
Likely: 2 yrs, $60M ($30M AAV)

Impossible to imagine Kershaw playing in another uniform, and Trevor Bauer’s uncertainty likely furthers that statement. The 34 year old projects to his current AAV - $31M, but a few nagging injuries could really supress his ability to get to that $30M mark.

Kevin Gausman SP • 31 • SF Calculated: 5 yrs, $110M ($22M)
Likely: 3 yrs, $60M ($20M)

Gausman turned some heads when he accepted the $19M qualifying offer, and his production has slipped a bit in the second half, but he’ll hit the open market with plenty of steam. He’s bringing Darvish type numbers to the table, & a $22M valuation.

Marcus Stroman SP • 31 • NYM Calculated: 4 yrs, $84M ($21M AAV)
Likely: 4 yrs, $100M ($25M AAV)

With injuries across the Mets' rotation, Stroman has been one of the steadier arms in the NL, playing out a $19M qualifying offer in the process. He’s looking at a multi-year guarantee at a slightly higher price this winter, valuing in the $21M range right now.

Carlos Rodon SP • 29 • CHW Calculated: 4 yrs, $96M ($24M)
Likely: 5 yrs, $100M ($20M AAV)

The White Sox will have plenty of mouths to feed over the next few years, but to think about where Rodon was just 6 months ago versus today is remarkable. Chicago non-tendered him last winter, eventually bringing him back late in the game on a $3M deal. He’s now worth $24M a year in our system based on age & production. Is a jump that high likely? Probably not. But he’s the perfect candidate to benefit from playing for a great team in a contract year, and be overpaid by a not-so-great team that winter.

Noah Syndergaard SP • 29 • NYM Calculated: 7 yrs, $204M ($29.1M AAV)
Likely: 3 yrs, $60M ($20M AAV)

For now, there are plenty more question marks than answers with Noah. Will the Mets slap a $19M qualifying offer on him? Will he need to take a small “prove-it” deal before he cashes in? A healthy Noah values just north of $29M in our system, but it’s highly unlikely any team goes full boat this offseason. Is there potential value here? The Astros/Lance McCullers situation (5 years, $85M a year after surgery) could be a model for the Mets to use.

Honorable Mentions
Anthony DeSclafani (SF), Steven Matz (TOR), Jon Gray (COL), Zack Greinke (HOU), Justin Verlander (HOU)

» VIEW ALL FREE AGENT STARTING PITCHERS
Relief Pitchers
Kenley JansenRP • 34 • LAD Calculated: 2 yrs, $20M ($10M AAV)
Likely: 2 yrs, $20M ($10M AAV)

Jansen’s teetering between a legitimate closer and a less-used setup man as he approaches free agency. Even if teams view him as the former, he’ll be hard pressed to find a contract north of $10M per year, which is where he currently projects in our system.

Craig Kimbrel RP • 33 • CHW Calculated: 3 yrs, $27 ($9M AAV)
Likely: 3 yrs, $30M ($10M AAV)

The White Sox hold a $16M club option for 2022 ($1M buyout), and his performance in August gives us no reason to believe they even consider exercising. That could change quickly in the postseason.

Raisel IglesiasRP • 31 • LAA Calculated: 3 yrs, $45M ($15M AAV)
Likely: 4 yrs, $64M ($16M AAV)

Iglesias has certainly done his part since coming to LA, and he’ll hit the market as potentially the best closer available. He’ll be eyeing Liam Hendricks’ $18M per year deal in Chicago, though he’s projecting in the 3 years, $45M range for us right now.

Honorable Mentions
 Ian Kennedy, (PHI), Aaron Loup (NYM), Collin McHugh (TB), Kendall Graveman (HOU), Dominic Leone (SF), Brad Boxberger (MIL), Ryan Tepera (CHW)

» VIEW ALL FREE AGENT RELIEF PITCHERS
Catchers
Yan GomesC • 34 • OAK Calculated: 2 yr, $15M ($7M AAV)
Likely: 2 yr, $12M ($6M AAV)

With Travis D’Arnaud extending in Atlanta, Gomes becomes the top potentially available catcher this winter. Gomes is finishing up a 2 year, $10M contract, and with D’Arnaud locking in $8M per year over the next two seasons, shouldn’t be in line for too much of a pay raise next season - if any. He projects to 2 years, $15M right now.

Buster Posey C • 34 • SF Calculated: 2 yrs, $22M ($11M AAV)
Likely: 2 yrs, $20M ($10M AAV)

After back-to-back tough seasons, Posey had a bounce back campaign in 2021, and his Giants are atop the league heading toward October. It could be the perfect swan song for the former #5 overall pick should SF get this to the finish line. Either way, it’s hard to imagine his $22M club option being exercised. There’s a $3M buyout to move on. When Yadier Molina was 34 years old, he scored a 3 year, $60M extension in St. Louis. Posey feels much more detached from this Giants roster than Yadi (still) does to the Cards, but a smaller version of those numbers could be in play here.

Mike Zunino C • 30 • TB Calculated: 4 yrs, $38M ($9.5M AAV)
Likely: 4 yrs, $40M ($10M AAV)

The Rays hold a $4M club option on Zunino, which shouldn’t be too rich for their blood, but if they decline, he immediately becomes the top dog on the market, with 30 HRs, and an OPS near .850 at the time of this piece. He holds a 4 year, $38M projection in our system.

Honorable Mentions
Manuel Pina (MIL), Martin Maldonado (HOU)

» VIEW ALL FREE AGENT CATCHERS
1st Basemen
Freddie Freeman1B • 32 • ATL Calculated: 5 yrs, $136M ($27.1M AAV)
Likely: 5 yrs, $130M ($26M AAV)

It’s hard to imagine Freeman is actually allowed to the open market, especially if the DH comes to the National League in 2022. Atlanta has clamped down on overspending the past few years, focusing on early, team-friendly deals even for their young superstars, so the 5 year, $136M projection we hold him at might be too rich for their blood.

Anthony Rizzo1B • 32 • NYY Calculated: 4 yrs, $86M ($21.7M AAV)
Likely: 5 yrs, $90M ($18M AAV)

If Freddie Freeman isn’t available, the Yanks will almost certainly look to lock in Rizzo for the long-term this winter. He’s been making $16.5M each of the past two seasons, but his current valuation sits just north of $21M. A 5 year $90M contract could get it done.

Brandon Belt 1B • 33 • SF Calculated: 3 yrs, $51M ($17M AAV)
Likely: 3 yrs, $48M ($16M AAV)

Belt’s been a big part of the Giants surprise season, and has spent all 13 years of his big league career in San Francisco. While the 33 year old values just north of $17M in our system, he may be asked to take less to stick with SF going forward.

Honorable Mentions
C.J. Cron (COL), Ryan Zimmerman (WAS)

» VIEW ALL FREE AGENT 1ST BASEMEN
2nd Basemen
Chris TaylorUT • 31 • LAD Calculated: 4 yrs, $44M ($11M AAV)
Likely: 4 yrs, $44M ($11M AAV)

Taylor’s often the forgotten man in a loaded Dodgers lineup, but his versatility makes him one of the most valuable at times. His 20+ HRs and nearly .800 OPS this season should find him north of $10M per year in 2022. He’s played 2B, SS, 3B, and all over the OF in 2021. Taylor's worth much more if he can produce like this on a lesser team, but it's safe to assume his stats as a Dodger are slightly padded because of the protection he's garnered in the lineup for years.

Honorable Mentions
Josh Harrison (OAK), Charlie Culberson (TEX)

» VIEW ALL FREE AGENT 2ND BASEMEN
Shortstops
Carlos CorreaSS • 27 • HOU Calculated: 10 yrs, $266M ($26.6M AAV)
Likely: 12 yrs, $300M ($25M AAV)

Correa reportedly turned down a 6 year, $120M extension prior to the season, and based on his talent alone, justifiably so. But the deep crop of shortstops set to hit the market won’t help his case in increasing that figure much, as supply lowers demand. He’s a $27M player in our system.

Trevor StorySS • 28 • COL Calculated: 8 yrs, $238M ($29.75M AAV)
Likely: 10 yrs, $342M ($34.2M AAV)

It’s still a mystery why the Rockies didn’t move Story in July, but they’ll slap a qualifying offer on him and watch him sign elsewhere this winter, possibly for record setting money. Story is the most talented overall SS in this deep group, and the big fish (LAD, LAA, NYY) will be ready to pounce. He projects to 8 years, $240M, but there's no reason to believe he can't surpass Lindor's $34.1M contract in New York.

Corey SeagerSS • 27 • LAD Calculated: 9 yrs, $272M ($30.2M AAV)
Likely: 12 yrs, $360M ($30M AAV)

A broken hand derailed what could have been a huge contract year for Seager, but there’s enough of a resume to find him plenty of dollars. Will it be with LAD, or on the open market remains the biggest question mark. Like Story, Seagar has $30M per year production.

Javier BaezSS • 28 • NYM Calculated: 8 yrs, $192M ($24M AAV)
Likely: 10 yrs, $220M ($22M AAV)

Baez is the atypical “boom or bust” player, both at the plate and defensively at times. Where he falls in this free agent crop is a really interesting follow, as many teams will rate him last on this list of available shortstops. Does that mean his price tag tanks too? Baez is a $24M player in our system to date.

Marcus SemienSS • 31 • TOR Calculated: 4 yrs, $78M ($19.5M AAV)
Likely: 5 yrs, $90M ($18M AAV)

One of the best 2021 stories in baseball, Semien turned a 1 year, $18M contract in Toronto into MVP type productions. He’d be foolish to leave the Blue Jays for a few extra million, and likely just wants multi-year security as a concession, even if it means a few million less per year.

Honorable Mentions
Freddy Galvis (PHI)

» VIEW ALL FREE AGENT SHORTSTOPS
3rd Basemen
Kris BryantOF/3B • 29 • SF Calculated: 6 yrs, $142M ($23.6M AAV)
Likely: 6 yrs, $150M ($25M AAV)

Bryant is still a pretty significant 5-tool player in this league, with speed being the least viable of his talents at this stage. The move to San Francisco seemed less like a rental, and more like a preview of more to come once an extension is figured out. Bryant will likely be seeking George Springer’s $25M AAV as a starting point this winter. The problem? Statistically speaking over the past two seasons he’s more Nick Castellanos than George Springer.

Eduardo Escobar3B • 32 • MIL Calculated: 3 yrs, $30M ($10M AAV)
Likely: 4 yrs, $48M ($12M AAV)

Escobar has 27 HRs and 81 RBIs at the time of this piece, much needed power production for a contender that has gotten very little from Christian Yelich. An extension in Milwaukee seems likely, and it shouldn’t cost more than $10M a year.

Kyle Seager 3B • 33 • SEA Calculated: 3 yrs, $56M ($18.9M AAV)
Likely: 4 yrs, $64M ($16M AAV)

The Mariners are likely to decline a $20M club option for Seager ($2M buyout) despite his 34 HR, 96 RBI season (at the time of this piece). A lack of consistency will factor into what could be a fairly high ceiling value contract this winter for somebody in the $10M range.

Honorable Mentions
Matt Duffy (CHC), Jonathan Villar (NYM)

» VIEW ALL FREE AGENT 3RD BASEMEN
Outfielders
Michael Conforto OF • 28 • NYM Calculated: 6 yrs, $112M ($18.6M AAV)
Likely: 1 yr, $20M (Q/O)

Conforto was eyeing $25M a year before the start of the 2021 season. But injury and season-long slump has his value at an all-time low heading toward free agency. He’s a prime candidate to sign the $20M qualifying offer the Mets are sure to slap on him, bet on himself, and hit the market again in 2022.

Nick CastellanosOF • 29 • CIN Calculated: 6 yrs, $128M ($21.3M AAV)
Likely: 6 yrs, $120M ($20M AAV)

Castellanos can opt out of the remaining 2 years, $32M this winter if he desires, and with a weak free agent OF market, he might do just that. He’s posting career numbers across the board, including an .OPS north of .930. Someone will likely have a $20M per year offer on the table.

Kyle SchwarberOF • 28 • BOS Calculated: 3 yrs, $38M ($12.5M AAV)
Likely: 2 yrs, $24M ($12M AAV)

Schwarber had an incredible stretch of power through the middle of the season, but as per his usual, cooled off, and couldn’t stay healthy. He’s a nice fit for a team that has the depth to platoon him as needed, but he’s not a legitimate “starting 9” option. The National League getting a DH in 2022 could very much benefit his demand.

Honorable Mentions
Jorge Soler (ATL),  Michael Taylor (KC), Mark Canha (OAK), Tommy Pham (SD), Starling Marte (OAK)

» VIEW ALL FREE AGENT OUTFIELDERS
Designated Hitters
Nelson Cruz DH • 41 • TB Calculated: 1 yr, $14M ($14M AAV)
Likely: 1 yr, $10M ($10M AAV)

The gift that keeps on giving has 30+ HRs and 20+ doubles yet again. While the overall production has slipped a bit, Cruz still has legitimate staying power despite him being north of 40 years old. If he wants to give it one more go, his calculated value sits at $14M, but there’s likely a max $10M contract out there for him.

J.D. Martinez DH • 34 • BOS Calculated: 2 yrs, $46M ($23M AAV)
Likely: 4 yrs, $64M ($16M AAV)

Martinez can opt-out of a 1 year $19.35M salary in 2022 to hit the open market, and very much should do so. He’s refound his consistency (in large part due to video being allowed back in the dugout), and should be seeking a multi-year guarantee to round out his career. Even if that means a little less in terms of average salary. His calculated projection sits at 2 years, $46M.

Honorable Mentions
Albert Pujols (LAD), Jorge Soler (ATL)

» VIEW ALL FREE AGENT DESIGNATED HITTERS
max scherzer robbie ray clayton kershaw kevin gausman marcus stroman carlos rodon noah syndergaard kenley jansen craig kimbrel raisel iglesias yan gomes buster posey mike zunino freddie freeman anthony rizzo brandon belt chris taylor trevor story corey seager javier báez marcus semien kris bryant eduardo escobar kyle seager michael conforto nick castellanos kyle schwarber nelson cruz j.d. martinez

Breaking Down T.J. Watt's Contract Extension

Scott AllenSeptember 10, 2021

t.j. watt pittsburgh steelers extension t.j. watt

2021 Opening Week Positional Spending Breakdown

Michael GinnittiSeptember 07, 2021

A comprehensive guide to how 2021 NFL rosters are broken down positionally, including a dive into full rosters, and projected Week 1 starting groups.


Related & Relevant Links

 

Total Team Spending

Before we dive too deep, a look at which teams have the most overall cap & combined average salary heading into the 2021 season.

Total Cap Allocations:
1. Cowboys, $201.M
2. Patriots, $198M
3. Browns, $197M
Full List

Total Combined AAV:
1. Bills, $253M
2. Buccaneers, $246M
3. 49ers, $243M
Full List

Total Cash Allocations
1. Cowboys, $262M
2. Buccaneers, $245M
3. Patriots, $241M
Full List

 

 

Top Cap Allocations

The following teams have the most cap percentage allocated to a particular position group entering the 2021 season. Data pulled from: https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/positional/offense/

Offense: Browns, 60.8%
Defense: Patriots, 49%
Quarterbacks: Seahawks, 18.36%
Running Backs: Titans, 8.46%
Wide Receivers: Dolphins, 20.4%
Tight Ends: Browns, 7.8%
Offensive Linemen: Jaguars, 24%
Defensive Linemen: Chiefs, 25%
Linebackers: Cardinals, 27%
Secondary: Patriots, 27%
Special Teams: Ravens, 4.7%

 

 

Projected Starting Lineups

Projecting any week’s starting lineups has become increasingly more challenging in the COVD era, but thanks to sites like OurLads.com & ESPN, we’ve compiled a decent starting point for each NFL team. We’ll continue to update these on a weekly basis here: https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/depth-charts/

Starter Cap Allocations
Total: Browns, $152M
Offense: Browns, $109M
Defense: Bills, $71M

Starter Combined AAVs
Total: Bills, $210M
Offense: Buccaneers, $118M
Defense: Bills, $89M

Notable Notes:

  • The Titans enter Week 1 as the only starting lineup average over 27 years old. The Niners & Ravens round out the Top 3, while the Jets (23.8), Saints, & Panthers enter as the youngest group in the league. The average starting lineup age is 25.6.
  • In terms of combined average salary, the Bills, Bucs, & Browns head into Week 1 with the most expensive starting lineups, while the Steelers, Jets, & Dolphins bring up the rear.
  • Buffalo’s $210M lineup is $11M more than any other team in football. Their average starter AAV is $7.2M, by far the most in the NFL and $3.3M more than the low team Steelers ($3.9M).
  • The Bucs, Browns, & Bills lead the way in terms of starting offense spending, while the Bills, Vikings, & Bears lead the way in defensive dollars.
  • 4 teams, the Seahawks, Giants, Texans, & Ravens, have more than $8M allocated to their starting K/P. The Saints enter Week 1 with just $1.9M allocated to this battery.
  • Average Spending
    Starters: $158M
    Offense: $84M
    Defense: $68M
    S/T: $5.1M
  • Draft Origin:
    Round 1: 215
    Round 2: 159
    Round 3: 118
    Round 4: 82
    Round 5: 69
    Round 6: 54
    Round 7: 31
    UDFA: 184

 

Quarterbacks

Financial Leaders
AAV: Patrick Mahomes, KC, $45M
CAP: Russell Wilson, SEA, $32M


Total Roster

  • QB cap allocations range from $33.8M (Seattle) to $3.7M (Philly)
  • With that said, the Eagles $33.8M dead cap hit to Carson Wentz matches the highest active QB cap total for any team in the NFL.
  • 11 teams have less than $10M of cap allocated to their QB group
  • Average Team QB Spending
    AAV: $23M
    CAP: $15.8M (8.25%)

Projected Starters (QB1)

  • 14 Week 1 starters enter the season with an AAV north of $20M, while 16 fall at $10M or below.
  • 12 no longer play for their drafted team
  • 12 are playing on a rookie contract
  • 6 are playing on expiring contracts
  • Average QB1 Spending
    AAV: $18.6M
    CAP: $12.6M (6.5%)
  • Draft Origin:
    Round 1: 22
    Round 2: 4
    Round 3: 1
    Round 4: 2
    Round 6: 2
    Round 7: 1

Dead Cap
6 teams are carrying more than $10M of dead cap at the QB position, led by PHI ($33.8M), LAR ($24.7M), & DET ($20.5M).

 

 

Running Backs

Financial Leaders
AAV: Christian McCaffrey, CAR, $16M
CAP: Derrick Henry, TEN, $13.5M


Total Roster

  • Only two teams in the league have a combined RB group north of $20M AAV, the Saints ($22.3M), & the Browns ($21.5M).
  • 17 teams have less than $10M in combined AAV allocated to their entire RB group.
  • Average Team RB Spending
    AAV: $8.8M
    CAP: $6.9M (3.6%)

Projected Starters (RB1 + RB2)

  • 15 teams have less than $5M allocated to their top two running backs, a trend that’s been growing steadily over time.
  • RB $ Rank for SB Contenders (FD)
    Chiefs (19), Bucs (18), Bills (31), Packers (8), Ravens (16), 49ers (20), Rams (24), Browns (2), Seahawks (13), Titans (7)
  • Average RB1/RB2 Spending
    AAV: $7.5M
    CAP: $5.6M (2.95%)
  • Draft Origin:
    Round 1: 11
    Round 2: 11
    Round 3: 14
    Round 4: 12
    Round 5: 2
    Round 6: 3
    Round 7: 3
    Undrafted: 8

Dead Cap
The Rams lead the way here with $8.4M of RB dead cap thanks to Todd Gurley, while the Jets ($4.3M) take on a significant hit for Le’Veon Bell, & the Niners for Jerick McKinnon ($2M).

 

 

Wide Receivers

Financial Leaders
AAV: DeAndre Hopkins, ARZ, $27.25M
CAP: Amari Cooper, DAL, $22M


Total Roster

  • While 13 teams have at least $25M of combined AAV allocated to their WRs, the story is at the bottom, where the Falcons have 6 WRs combining for just $6.7M
  • No team has more 2021 cap allocated to WRs than the Dolphins ($40.2M), while rookie contracts & void years make a potent Steelers arsenal the cheapest group in football ($7.5M).
  • Average Team WR Spending
    AAV: $21.2M
    CAP: $17M (8.8%)

Projected Starters (WR1, WR2, WR3, WR4)

  • The Rams top the projected Week 1 WRs with nearly $38M of combined AAV, just ahead of the Browns and Bucs. The Saints, Falcons, & Niners bring up the rear.
  • With injury to Michael Thomas & the departure of Emmanuel Sanders, the Saints starting 4 WRs account for just $4.9M of 2021 cap, easily the lowest in the league. The Chargers ($33.1M), sit atop this list.
  • Average WR1-WR4 Spending
    AAV: $19.6M
    CAP: $15.3 (7.9%)
  • Draft Origin:
    Round 1: 25
    Round 2: 32
    Round 3: 17
    Round 4: 5
    Round 5: 11
    Round 6: 9
    Round 7: 3
    Undrafted: 26

Dead Cap
Desean Jackson & Alshon Jeffery’s departures factor into a league leading $11.5M of WR dead cap for Philly this year. Julio’s trade leaves ATL 2nd ($7.8M), with the Texans ($6.4M) bringing up 3rd.

 

 

Tight Ends

Financial Leaders
AAV: George Kittle, SF, $15M
CAP: Zach Ertz, PHI, $12.7M


Total Roster

  • No surprise, but the Patriots huge offseason puts them with $28M+ of combined AAV toward their TEs, nearly $10M more than any other team.
  • Their AFC East rival Bills sit at the bottom of this list, with just $1.5M allocated to their TEs ($2M of cap).
  • The Browns ($16.5M) have the most 2021 cap allocated to TEs, with the Eagles, and Pats rounding out the Top 3.
  • Average Team TE Spending
    AAV: $9.5M
    CAP: $7.9M (4.12%)

Projected Starters (TE1/TE2)

  • The Pats big offseason led to $25M of combined starting TE AAV, easily the top in the league.
  • Only 8 teams have double digit millions invested into their Top 2 TEs.
  • Average TE1/TE2 Spending
    AAV: $7.7M
    CAP: $6.7M (3.46%)
  • Draft Origin:
    Round 1: 9
    Round 2: 12
    Round 3: 12
    Round 4: 10
    Round 5: 5
    Round 6: 1
    Round 7: 2
    Undrafted: 13

Dead Cap
In moving on from Jesse James, the Lions are carrying $4.8M of TE dead cap this year, by far the most in the league.

 

 

Offensive Lines

Financial Leaders
Tackles
AAV: Trent Williams, SF, $23.01M
CAP: D.J. Humphries, ARZ, $19.9M

Guards
AAV: Joe Thuney, KC, $16M
CAP: Brandon Scherff, WSH, $18M

Centers
AAV: Frank Ragnow, DET, $13.5M
CAP: J.C. Tretter, CLE, $11M


Total Roster

  • The Colts, Saints, and Eagles hold down the Top 3 combined AAV figures among OLs, while the Vikings, Steelers, and Dolphins bring up the rear.
  • The Jaguars have over $50M of combined AAV & cap dollars invested, a clear stance at protecting their new QB1.
  • Average Team OL Spending
    AAV: $39.6M
    CAP: $30.5M (16.7%)

Projected Starting OL

  • The Saints ($48.4M) hold the most expensive Week 1 offensive line, with the Eagles & Lions rounding out a Top 3.
  • Meanwhile, the Steelers projected starting OL combines for a near impossible $7.9M AAV (Trai Turner, $3M is the high).
  • Average Starting OL Spending
    AAV: $35.6M
    CAP: $28.1M (15.4%)
  • Draft Origin:
    Round 1: 44
    Round 2: 35
    Round 3: 25
    Round 4: 13
    Round 5: 9
    Round 6: 10
    Round 7: 5
    Undrafted: 19

Dead Cap
Via retirements, releases, & trades, the Steelers and Raiders each carry $12.3M of offensive line dead cap this year, by far the most in the league.

 

 

Defensive Lines

Financial Leaders
Interior DL
AAV: Aaron Donald, LAR, $22.5M
CAP: Fletcher Cox, Phi, $23.8M

Defensive End
AAV: Joey Bosa, LAC, $27M
CAP: Frank Clark, KC, $25.8M


Total Roster

  • Despite a roster overhaul, the Eagles still have $55.5M of combined AAV allocated to their defensive line, tops in the league. The Niners, Chiefs, & Bengals all have more than $50M invested, while the Titans, Broncos, Lions, & Cardinals enter with less than $20M.
  • Denver enters Week 1 with less than $10M of cap allocated to their DL, $40M less than the leading Eagles.
  • Average Team DL Spending
    AAV: $35.6M
    CAP: $28.1M (15.4%)

Projecting Starting DL:

  • 5 teams (DEN, ARZ, DET, TEN, JAX) are entering the year with less than $10M of cap allocated to their starting DL.
  • The Chiefs have 22% ($42M) of their adjusted salary cap spent into their starting DL.
  • The Broncos have just $6M in combined AAV here to start the year.
  • Average Starting DL Spending
    AAV: $24.5M
    CAP: $19.4M (10.6%)
  • Draft Origin
    Round 1: 40
    Round 2: 17
    Round 3: 20
    Round 4: 12
    Round 5: 7
    Round 6: 3
    Round 7: 3
    Undrafted 11

Dead Cap
Kawann Short's factors in $11M of the Panthers $13.5M in DL dead cap for 2021, tops in the league, while Geno Atkins & Carlos Dunlap leave behind $7.45M to the Bengals.

 

 

Linebackers

Financial Leaders
Rush Linebacker
AAV: Khalil Mack, CHI, $23.5M
CAP: Von Miller, DEN, $22.2M

Off-Ball Linebackers
AAV: Darius Leonard, IND, $19.7M
CAP: Bobby Wagner, SEA, $17.1M


Total Roster

  • While their DL is loaded, the Eagles have less than $5M of combined cap allocated to their linebacking core.
  • The Cardinals added more fuel to an already deep LB arsenal, and now have over $51M of cap invested there - 27% of their team cap.
  • In terms of combined AAV, it's the Bears who lead the way, with nearly $57M allocated.
  • Average Team LB Spending
    AAV: $27.1M
    CAP: $21.6M (11.8%)

Projected Starting LBs

  • The Bucs, Bears, & Lions each have $40M+ of combined AAV invested into their starting linebackers, though the Broncos lead the way in terms of allocated cap ($36M).
  • 11 teams enter Week 1 with less than $10M of cap placed into their starting linebacker core.
  • Average Starting LB Spending
    AAV: $20.3M
    CAP: $15.4M (8.4%)
  • Draft Origin:
    Round 1: 32
    Round 2: 17
    Round 3: 14
    Round 4: 15
    Round 5: 14
    Round 6: 3
    Round 7: 3
    Undrafted: 13

Dead Cap
Luke Kuechly's retirement tacks on $7.1M of cap to the Panthers this year, while Kwon Alexander's departure in SF leaves behind nearly $7M.

 

 

Secondarys

Financial Leaders
Cornerbacks
AAV: Jalen Ramsey, LAR, $20M
CAP: Stephon Gilmore, NE, $16.2M

Safeties
AAV: Jamal Adams, SEA, $17.5M
CAP: Tyrann Mathieu, KC, $19.7M


Total Roster

  • The Broncos spent much of their offseason extending and adding to their secondary, and head into Week 1 with $51M allocated to their DBs, most in the league. Baltimore & New England fall inline right behind, while the Bucs, Falcons, and Lions bring up the rear.
  • Average Team DB Spending
    AAV: $33.5M
    CAP: $28.3M (15.5%)

Projected Starting Roster

  • The Giants ($41M) have nearly twice as much allocated to their secondary as the average team in football does ($22M). Meanwhile the defending champs have just $5.6M posted to their starting 4 secondary, by far the low in the league.
  • Average Starting DB Spending
    AAV: $22M
    CAP: $18.2M (10%)
  • Draft Origin:
    Round 1: 32
    Round 2: 31
    Round 3: 14
    Round 4: 11
    Round 5: 9
    Round 6: 11
    Round 7: 3
    Undrafted: 16

Dead Cap
The Lions ($13M) thanks to Justin Coleman and Desmond Trufant have more cap allocated to past players than they do their starting secondary ($10M). Moving on from Kyle Fuller & Buster Skrine means $12.7M of secondary dead cap for the Bears in 2021.

 

 

Special Teams

Financial Leaders
Kicker
AAV: Justin Tucker, BAL, $5M
CAP: Justin Tucker, BAL, $5.1M

Punter
AAV: Johnny Hekker, LAR, $3.7M
CAP: Johnny Hekker, LAR, $3.9M

Long Snapper
AAV: Luke Rhodes, IND, $1.2M
CAP: Trent Sieg, LV, $1.3M


Total Roster

  • The Seahawks & Giants each have $8.6M allocated to their special teamers, tops in the league. While the Lions, Browns, & Pats round out the bottom 3
  • The Ravens have $8.7M of cap allocated to their S/T
  • Average Team Special Teams Spending
    AAV: $5.4
    CAP: $4.8M (2.6%)

Projected Starting Special Teamers

  • 13 starting kickers carry an AAV less than $1M. The league Week 1 average is $2.6M.
  • 13 punters carry an AAV less than $1M. The league Week 1 average is $1.6M
  • 14 long snappers carry can AAV less than $1M. The league Week 1 average is $997k.
  • Draft Origin:
    Round 1: 0
    Round 2: 0
    Round 3: 1
    Round 4: 1
    Round 5: 11
    Round 6: 10
    Round 7: 8
    Undrafted: 65

Dead Cap
In moving on from Britton Colquitt & Dan Bailey this offseason, the Vikings compiled $3.89M of dead cap for the upcoming season.

2018 Rookie Scale Extension Updates and Predictions

Keith SmithAugust 31, 2021

The 2018 NBA Draft class is eligible to sign Rookie Scale contract extensions this offseason. Each player has until late-October to agree to an extension. If no agreement is reached, the player will be eligible for restricted free agency in the summer of 2022. A handful of players are ineligible to sign an extension, because they had team options declined at some point during their Rookie Scale contract.

By pick, here’s where things stand for each player. For those who have already signed an extension, we’ll remind you of the terms. For the rest, we’ll make a prediction on what happens before the late-October extension deadline.

Related: Spotrac's NBA Extension Tracker

  1. Deandre Ayton, Phoenix Suns


    Ayton was a huge part of the Suns making the 2021 NBA Finals. He’s come a long way since his rookie year on both ends of the court. The floor for Ayton was set by Jarrett Allen getting a five-year, $100 million contract from the Cleveland Cavaliers. If Allen is worth $20 million a year, Ayton has to feel good about getting a max deal.
    Prediction: five years, $172.5 million, no options

  2. Marvin Bagley III, Sacramento Kings


    Bagley hasn’t stayed healthy throughout his first three years in the NBA. That, more than anything else, is what will keep him from getting paid. The Kings will only offer extremely team-friendly terms, and that’s not worth it for Bagley. All the potential is still there, but he has to put it together. That means a prove-it season in 2021-22.
    Prediction: No extension

  3. Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks


    Doncic already got the richest Rookie Scale contract extension in NBA history. It’s well-earned too, as Doncic has been terrific since coming to the NBA. He’s poised to be an annual MVP candidate and will eventually sign a Designated Veteran extension down the line too.
    Prediction: Already signed a five-year, $207 million extension, player option in 2026-27

  4. Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis Grizzlies


    This is where it gets interesting for the 2018 class. Jackson has been really good, but he’s only been slightly healthier than Bagley has been. The difference is that Jackson has been a good defender and a top-tier shooter over his three seasons. As a 6’11’’ 4/5, that’s great value in today’s NBA. Look for Memphis to do what they can to keep Jackson in the fold, but to not overpay, given his injury history.
    Prediction: four years, $88 million, no options

  5. Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks


    Young inked a deal that could end up looking exactly like Doncic’s does. Whereas Doncic has already qualified for the bump to the second salary tier, Young needs to make All-NBA again to get there. Don’t bet against him.
    Prediction: Already signed a five-year, $172.5 million extension with a player option in 2026-27, will jump to $207 million if Young makes All-NBA in 2022.

  6. Mo Bamba, Orlando Magic


    Bamba hasn’t been healthy, nor very good for the Magic. He’s struggled with the speed of the NBA game and only rarely flashes potential befitting his draft status. Orlando doubled-down on the position by acquiring Wendell Carter Jr., which may signal where Bamba stands moving forward.
    Prediction: No extension

  7. Wendell Carter Jr., Orlando Magic


    Orlando acquired Carter at the 2021 trade deadline in exchange for Nikola Vucevic. Carter looked pretty good with the Magic, in a 22-game sample at the end of last season. He’s never fully shown the skills that earned him Al Horford comps, but there is still plenty of potential there. The Magic love to lock up their own players, when they can. Don’t expect anything different with Carter. They just need it to be team-friendly enough to make it worth it.
    Prediction: four years, $48 million, no options

  8. Collin Sexton, Cleveland Cavaliers


    Sexton is a really interesting case. Because he’s been on bad Cavs teams, a lot of people probably missed him averaging 24.3 points per game on 47/37/81 shooting splits last season. Sexton also dished out a career-high 4.4 assists per game. He’s not just a gunner who puts up meaningless numbers. The question is: What’s that worth to the Cavs, who also have Darius Garland as a smaller point guard and Isaac Okoro as a two-guard?
    Prediction: No extension, unless he’s traded before the extension deadline

  9. Kevin Knox, New York Knicks


    Knox showed a lot of potential at his first Summer League in 2018. Since then, it’s all kind of gone downhill. He’s shot just 37% for his career and could barely get off the bench in his third season. Knox needs a change of scenery to try to jumpstart his career.
    Prediction: No extension

  10. Mikal Bridges, Phoenix Suns


    As bad as Knox as bad, that’s how good Bridges has been for the Suns. Bridges is already a high-end defender and his shot has developed faster than anyone could have foreseen. Phoenix is in a tricky spot. They already paid Devin Booker and Chris Paul, as well as a few role players. Ayton is probably going to push for a max deal. Will the Suns pony up for Bridges too?
    Prediction: four years, $90 million, no options

  11. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander , Oklahoma City Thunder


    Gilgeous-Alexander got the non-superstar version of the full max extension. He got five years and max money, but no player option at the end. That feels fair, considering he’s shown to be All-Star-level player, but hasn’t quite popped just yet.
    Prediction: already signed a five-year, $172.5 million extension with no options

  12. Miles Bridges, Charlotte Hornets


    Bridges had somewhat of a breakout season with the Hornets in 2020-21. The issue for Bridges is that he’s caught in somewhat of a crowded frontcourt. If Charlotte is willing to give him $15 million a year, Bridges should grab it. Anything less, he should bet on himself landing a bigger deal next summer.
    Prediction: No extension

  13. Jerome Robinson, Free Agent


    Robinson never found his footing in the NBA and was waived by the Washington Wizards near the end of the 2020-21 season.

  14. Michael Porter Jr., Denver Nuggets


    It’s only been two seasons, but Porter has already shown why many considered him to be a top prospect in 2018. A back injury caused Porter to slide in the draft, and then he also missed his rookie season. Since then, he’s shown all the potential that everyone loved. Porter is already a dominant scoring option. He averaged 19 points on 54/45/79 shooting in his second season. He’s also a solid rebounder and a willing defender. Denver is going to pay to keep their talented forward, because Porter is an ideal fit with Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. Look for this deal to come in shy of the max, but maybe with some incentives to get it to the max.
    Prediction: four years, $100 million, no options

  15. Troy Brown Jr., Chicago Bulls


    Brown has been flashing potential, but flashes don’t get you an extension. At least not one Brown should sign. The hope is that with a bigger role on a playoff team, Brown can show what he can do and get paid as a free agent.
    Prediction: No extension

  16. Zhaire Smith, Free Agent


    Smith didn’t even really make it to the third year of his Rookie scale deal. The Philadelphia 76ers traded him to the Detroit Pistons in a salary dump, and he was subsequently waived.

  17. Donte DiVincenzo, Milwaukee Bucks


    DiVincenzo looked like he was on his way to a potential extension before getting hurt late in the 2020-21 season. The Bucks went on to win the title without him, and DiVincenzo now has some catching up to do. His ability to handle the ball, pass and shoot makes him a good fit with the Bucks big three. Milwaukee would do well to get him on a relatively team-friendly deal, even if it adds to the tax bill. They just don’t have anyway to replace DiVincenzo if he were to leave.
    Prediction: four years, $60 million

  18. Lonnie Walker, San Antonio Spurs


    Walker has shown improvement in his first three seasons. The challenge for him is that the Spurs have a loaded backcourt, and Walker isn’t really big enough to play at small forward. This one will go to restricted free agency.
    Prediction: No extension

  19. Kevin Huerter, Atlanta Hawks


    Huerter has gone from interesting prospect to key rotation player for the Hawks. In some ways, Huerter’s ascendency has matched that of Atlanta’s. He’s a solid defender and a good ball-mover and shooter. That makes him an ideal fit next to Trae Young. But Atlanta just paid Young and John Collins, a summer after spending a bundle in free agency. Look for the Hawks to let this one play out and decide between Huerter and Cameron Reddish as the big guard alongside Young and Bogdan Bogdanovic.
    Prediction: No extension

  20. Josh Okogie, Minnesota Timberwolves


    Okogie is Minnesota’s best wing defender, but that’s sort of like being the best Marvel villain not named Thanos: It’s not saying much. More importantly, Okogie is the third or fourth player in a rotation of players who are best as shooting guards for the Wolves. On an increasingly expensive team, he’s not getting a new deal.
    Prediction: No extension

  21. Grayson Allen, Milwaukee Bucks


    The Bucks acquired Allen on the cheap this offseason. That’s a great depth move for Milwaukee, but with Donte DiVincenzo ahead of him in the pecking order, Allen’s not getting an extension.
    Prediction: No extension

  22. Chandler Hutchison, San Antonio Spurs


    The Spurs acquired Hutchison by jumping in to help facilitate the Russell Westbrook to the Los Angeles Lakers trade. It’s not a lock Hutchison makes the roster out of training camp, so forget an extension of any sort.
    Prediction: No extension

  23. Aaron Holiday, Washington Wizards


    The Indiana Pacers moved Holiday off to Washington in part because he was extension-eligible. Indiana has better guards, but Washington’s mix is a little conducive to regular playing time for Holiday. That’s not going to get him an extension though. But if Holiday plays well, look for a new deal next summer with the Wizards.
    Prediction: No extension

  24. Anfernee Simons, Portland Trail Blazers


    Simons became a pretty deadly shooter last season, as he knocked down 42.6% from behind the arc. That has value for a Portland team that is short on depth. The question comes with how much more money the Trail Blazers want to invest in another guard. They’re already playing Damian Lillard, C.J. McCollum and Norman Powell a combined $366 million. Now, if Lillard was moved in a trade…
    Prediction: No extension

  25. Moritz Wagner, Orlando Magic


    Wagner is not eligible for an extension, because he was waived by the Boston Celtics during the 2020-21 season.

  26. Landry Shamet, Phoenix Suns


    Shamet has bounced around during his first few years in the NBA. The Suns picked him up for some guard depth behind Devin Booker, but he’s not getting extended. Phoenix has more important extensions to handle first, and that leaves Shamet without an extension.
    Prediction: No extension

  27. Robert Williams III, Boston Celtics


    Brad Stevens acted early, and somewhat set the market, when he inked Williams to a four-year extension worth up to $54 million. That deal is set up well to protect Boston if Williams continues to have injury issues, as he has for the first three years of his career.
    Prediction: Already signed a four-year extension worth between $48 and $54 million with no options

  28. Jacob Evans, Free Agent


    Evans was traded a couple of times before being waived by the New York Knicks before the 2020-21 season.

  29. Dzanan Musa, Free Agent


    Musa was traded from the Brooklyn Nets to the Detroit Pistons before being waived prior to the 2020-21 season. He played for Anadolu Efes in Turkey last season.

  30. Omari Spellman, Free Agent


    Like his former teammate Jacob Evans, Spellman was traded a couple of times and was waived by the New York Knicks early in the 2020-21 season.
extension nba nba draft rookie extension deandre ayton luka doncic trae young jaren jackson jr. wendell carter jr. mikal bridges shai gilgeous-alexander michael porter jr. donte divincenzo robert williams iii

NFL Team Cash Spending Since 2016

Michael GinnittiAugust 27, 2021

 

The 2021 NFL Dead Cap Roster (2:44)
Our look at the highest current dead cap hits from each position, combining for the All Dead Cap Roster, led by now Colts QB Carson Wentz, former Rams RB Todd Gurley, & former Falcons WR Julio Jones. Full Article

 

NFL Multi-Year Spending (5:21)
Scott Allen formulated a list of how each NFL team has doled out cash from 2016-2020, and the leaders who sit atop the list shouldn't surprise many. But the bottom of the list tells a much different story, as it combines teams who have gone through plenty of growing pains with a few legitimate Super Bowl winners & contenders. View the complete list

 

Nerlens Noel Sues Rich Paul & Klutch Sports (23:36)
Keith Smith joins the show to break down the details surrounding Nerlens Noel's lawsuit against former agency Klutch Sports, claiming their decisions cost him upwards of $58M in lost earnings. Keith brings thoughts from the player & agent side, and speaks to how this may shape decisions going forward.

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