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FoxSports.com: NFL Free Agency Report Card

St. Louis Rams

Impact moves: The Rams makeover that began when Jeff Fisher was named head coach continued with 10 free-agent acquisitions. Cornerback Cortland Finnegan (Tennessee), center Scott Wells (Green Bay) and defensive end Kendall Langford (Miami) lead the pack.

Significant losses: The Rams not only lost wide receiver Brandon Lloyd to New England, they also yielded a 2012 fifth-round pick to Denver for Lloyd short-term in a desperate midseason trade. Two long-time Rams — punter Donnie Jones (Houston) and cornerback Ron Bartell (Oakland) — are now elsewhere.

Top draft needs: The Rams have a slew of needs but will have an easier time addressing them with the extra picks provided in a trade with the Washington Redskins. For the draft's No. 2 overall pick, St. Louis received Washington's 2012 first- and second-round picks plus 2013 and 2014 first-rounders. Louisiana State cornerback Morris Claiborne, Oklahoma State wide receiver Justin Blackmon and North Carolina defensive end Quinton Coples seem the most likely targets for St. Louis with the No. 6 overall pick.

Analysis: Defensive coordinator Gregg Williams' indefinite suspension because of his ringleader involvement in the New Orleans bounty scandal was a blow to Fisher. But Fisher and new general manager Les Snead did an adroit job helping restock one of the league's most talent-starved rosters.

Grade: A-
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Tom Gannam)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

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NFL Report Cards The Peyton Manning saga. The New Orleans Saints bounty scandal. A major draft-pick trade. A head-spinning amount of player movement via free agency and trades.

And now, the NFL offseason is truly set to begin.

Workout programs opened Monday for every team that doesn't have a new head coach. Sessions for the squads that do began two weeks ago.

Under terms of the new Collective Bargaining Agreement, the practice rules are far more restrictive to give players the semblance of an actual "offseason." For many of those who have changed teams, Monday will mark the first time they can begin supervised workouts with their new team and get their hands on a playbook.

Here is my report card for how every team has fared in the free-agent signing period and what holes are left to fill later this month in the NFL Draft. - Alex Marvez (AP Photo Credit: Marcio Jose Sanchez/AJ Mast/Dave Martin)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
NFC: Tampa Bay B... Impact moves: Bucs ownership finally released its death grip on the purse strings and spent heavily on three coveted free agents – wide receiver Vincent Jackson, guard Carl Nicks and cornerback Eric Wright. Cornerback Ronde Barber was re-signed for his 16th season with the franchise. Newcomer Amobi Okoye (Chicago) will be a nice addition to the defensive line rotation.

Significant losses: None except for projected starting safety Tanard Jackson, who was cut last week. The reason was officially listed as a failed physical, but the reality is that the new Bucs coaching staff wanted to sever ties with a player who carried heavy off-field baggage.

Top draft needs: Running back and cornerback, which makes what the Bucs will do with the No. 5 overall pick so intriguing. Alabama running back Trent Richardson and Louisiana State cornerback Morris Claiborne are both worthy candidates. The Bucs also can use help at safety and linebacker.

Analysis: First-year head coach Greg Schiano has a legitimate chance of getting a young Bucs roster back on track after last season’s major regression. That starts with fixing fourth-year quarterback Josh Freeman, who threw 22 interceptions last year compared to just six in 2010.

Grade: B+
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Margaret Bowles)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Atlanta Falcons Impact moves: The Falcons focused on keeping their own players rather than adding newcomers. Six starters or key backups were re-signed, including defensive end John Abraham, safety Thomas DeCoud and center Todd McClure.

Significant losses: Middle linebacker Curtis Lofton's asking price was too high so he left for a five-year, $27.5 million deal with New Orleans. The Falcons signed ex-Seattle starter Lofa Tatupu as a potential replacement.

Top draft needs: The offensive line, particularly left tackle, should be a strong consideration. The Falcons also may seek to bolster their outside pass-rush after ranking in the bottom half of the league in sacks the past three seasons.

Analysis: While the cast will be similar, Falcons brass is hoping for improved results with new coordinators Dirk Koetter (offense) and Mike Nolan (defense).

Grade: B
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Dave Martin)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Carolina Panther... Impact moves: Versatile running back Mike Tolbert (San Diego) was the biggest name in Carolina's understated free agent class. Wide receiver Steve Smith received a three-year contract extension that also created some much-needed cap space.

Significant losses: The Panthers didn't make a strong push to retain linebacker Dan Connor, who signed a two-year, $6.5 million contract with Dallas.

Top draft needs: The defensive front seven, especially at defensive tackle. The Panthers surrendered 130.8 yards a game and 18 rushing touchdowns in 2011.

Analysis: The Panthers didn't duplicate last year's offseason spending spree that generated mixed results. The Tolbert signing was a surprise considering the Panthers still have running backs DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart in the fold.

Grade: C
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
New Orleans Sain... Impact moves: The Saints' front office stayed busy while dealing with the fallout of the bounty scandal that led to the pending suspension of general manager Mickey Loomis. New Orleans focused on its defensive front seven with the signing of defensive tackle Broderick Bunkley (Denver) and addition of three linebackers — Curtis Lofton (Atlanta), David Hawthorne (Seattle) and Chris Chamberlain (St. Louis). The linebacker push may be needed with Jon Vilma's status for the 2012 season unknown because of his role in the bounty scandal.

Significant losses: While the Saints were able to sign wide receiver Marques Colston to a contract extension, star left guard Carl Nicks left for a monster payday with Tampa Bay. The Saints didn't have the salary-cap room to keep Nicks because they were unable to reach agreement on a long-term deal with quarterback Drew Brees, who will count $16.4 million under the $120 million salary cap under the exclusive franchise tag. The Saints did find a quality replacement in Ben Grubbs (Baltimore).

Top draft needs: The defense could use more young talent, especially at cornerback after Tracy Porter (Denver) and versatile backup/special-teams contributor Leigh Torrence (Washington) departed.

Analysis: The inability to get Brees inked to a new contract has added to the dark clouds that have formed over the Saints this offseason.

Grade: C
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Bill Haber)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Dallas Cowboys Impact moves: The Cowboys bolstered their porous secondary by signing Kansas City's Brandon Carr to the largest contract (five years, $50.1 million) of the free-agent cornerback class. The Cowboys also made Kyle Orton (Kansas City) the NFL's highest-paid backup quarterback with a five-year, $17.5 million deal. Dallas hopes Dan Connor (Carolina) can make the adjustment to inside linebacker in a 3-4 defense after spending his first four NFL seasons in a 4-3.

Significant losses: Dallas couldn't afford to keep wide receiver Laurent Robinson, who left for Jacksonville after an 11-touchdown season in 2011. The Cowboys also are parting ways with a slew of 30-somethings that include cornerback Terence Newman, guard Kyle Kosier, and linebackers Keith Brooking and Bradie James.

Top draft needs: Outside linebacker, safety and interior offensive line should be atop the priority list.

Analysis: The Cowboys could have done even more in free agency but were hamstrung by a $10-million salary cap penalty that must be split over the next two seasons.

Grade: B
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Philadelphia Eag... Impact moves: One year after making a splash with signings like cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha and defensive tackle Cullen Jenkins, the underachieving Eagles concentrated on extensions for veterans like wide receiver DeSean Jackson, right tackle Todd Herremans and left guard Evan Mathis. Philadelphia augmented its linebacker corps by trading with Houston for DeMeco Ryans. The Eagles also acted quickly when left tackle Jason Peters (ruptured Achilles' tendon) was injured during a March workout by signing Buffalo's Demetress Bell to a five-year deal.

Significant losses: Two backup defensive linemen — Juqua Parker (Cleveland) and Trevor Laws (St. Louis) — are gone. The Eagles would love to draw an acceptable trade offer for cornerback Asante Samuel.

Top draft needs: The Eagles have no glaring weakness but defensive tackle pick-ups would be wise. Expect a quarterback to get selected within the first three rounds as the next Kevin Kolb/A.J. Feeley developmental project.

Analysis: Arguably no team was less prepared for post-lockout football than the Eagles. The approach this offseason is far better.

Grade: A
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Michael Perez)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Washington Redsk... Impact moves: Even at the admitted risk of having overpaid, Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan landed two frontline wide receivers in Pierre Garcon (Indianapolis) and Josh Morgan (San Francisco). Middle linebacker London Fletcher, the heart and soul of the defense, was re-signed. The Redskins are trying to patch their secondary with veterans like Cedric Griffin, Brandon Meriweather, Tanard Jackson and Leigh Torrence. Veteran leadership was secured when Fletcher re-signed.

Significant losses: Free safety LaRon Landry left for the New York Jets. The team's medical staff will shed no tears. Landry and the docs disagreed on how to treat an Achilles' tendon condition.

Top draft needs: The Redskins addressed their biggest weakness in early March. They jumped to the No. 2 spot in the upcoming draft for the chance to secure Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III.

Analysis: A busy offseason reflects the need for head coach Mike Shanahan and general manager Bruce Allen to lift Washington out of the NFC East basement. The impact of a $36-million salary-cap penalty over the next two seasons tempered what may have otherwise been a more ambitious spending spree.

Grade: A
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
New York Giants Impact moves: The Giants hope tight end Martellus Bennett will dispel the underachiever label stamped on him while playing for Dallas. The Giants traded a 2012 fifth-round pick to Cincinnati for linebacker Keith Rivers, who never proved worthy of his top-10 draft status during four years with the Bengals.

Significant losses: No franchise can retain every member of a Super Bowl-winning squad. Wide receiver Mario Manningham (Tampa Bay), cornerback Aaron Ross (Jacksonville) and running back Brandon Jacobs (San Francisco) are the most noteworthy departures.

Top draft needs: A running back isn't out of the question with an early pick considering the loss of Jacobs and struggles of Ahmad Bradshaw to stay healthy. The offensive line could use a mid-round developmental pick.

Analysis: By assemmbling Super Bowl-winning rosters in two of the past five seasons, Giants general manager Jerry Reese has proven he knows what he's doing.

Grade: B
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Matt York)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Minnesota Viking... Impact moves: As part of the rebuilding process, general manager Rick Spielman wisely put the brakes on costly free-agent signings. The Vikings hope tight end John Carlson (Seattle) can regain his 51-catch form of 2009 after missing all of last season with an injury.

Significant losses: The interior offensive line is undergoing a makeover with left guard Steve Hutchinson (Tennessee) and right guard Anthony Herrera (cut) no longer with the Vikings.

Top draft needs: Barring a trade down, all signs point to Minnesota choosing Southern Cal left tackle Matt Kalil with the No. 3 overall pick. A wide receiver is a likely target in the second or third rounds.

Analysis: With Spielman promoted to general manager after a 3-13 season, the Vikings can truly begin the roster overhaul that should have started last season.

Grade: B
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Genevieve Ross)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Detroit Lions Impact moves: The Lions took care of their best player by signing wide receiver Calvin Johnson to a seven-year, $132 million contract extension. The next order of business is trying to sign defensive end Cliff Avril to a long-term deal after naming him their franchise player.

Significant losses: With Johnson tying up more than $20 million in cap space before his extension, the Lions had no shot at keeping cornerback Eric Wright (five-year, $38 million contract with Tampa Bay).

Top draft needs: Cornerback, tackle and running back would make sense.

Analysis: After a breakthrough 2011 campaign, the Lions were more interested in retaining players like left tackle Jeff Backus and middle linebacker Stephen Tulloch than searching for free-agent replacements.

Grade: B
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Rick Osentoski)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Green Bay Packer... Impact moves: The Packers are loathe to sign free agents but added center Jeff Saturday (Indianapolis) and defensive linemen Anthony Hargrove (Seattle) and Daniel Muir (Indianapolis). Green Bay avoided having to use the franchise tag on tight end Jermichael Finley by striking an agreement on a two-year contract.

Significant losses: Green Bay signed Saturday to replace the departed Scott Wells (St. Louis).

Top draft needs: Running back (Ryan Grant is an unrestricted free agent), defensive end (Cullen Jenkins was never effectively replaced in 2011), outside linebacker (Clay Matthews can use a pass-rushing complement) and cornerback (new Oakland Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie — a long-time member of Green Bay's front office — signed backups Patrick Lee and Brandon Underwood). The Packers also may use an early pick on a quarterback to groom as a backup behind Aaron Rodgers now that Matt Flynn signed with Seattle.

Analysis: A team that finished with an NFL-best 15-1 record will return almost intact in 2012. That makes this a successful offseason.

Grade: A
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Jim Prisching)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Chicago Bears Impact moves: New general manager Phil Emery began putting his stamp on the Bears by acquiring wide receiver Brandon Marshall for two third-round picks.

Backup quarterback — the Achilles' heel for the 2011 Bears — was addressed with the signing of former Oakland starter Jason Campbell to serve as Jay Cutler's understudy. Outside linebacker Lance Briggs signed what is essentially a three-year, $17.5 million contract extension.

Significant losses: None.

Top draft needs: The defensive line, especially an end with pass-rush skills to complement Julius Peppers. Wide receiver and cornerback are also high on the priority list.

Analysis: The contract impasse with running back Matt Forte has already turned ugly. The Bears protected themselves by signing Oakland's Michael Bush to a four-year, $14 million contract. The Marshall acquisition will be boom-or-bust considering his history of off-field problems has prompted two teams (Denver and Miami) to trade one of the league's most talented wideouts.

Grade: B
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Arizona Cardinal... Impact moves: The Cardinals focused on their offensive line by inking San Francisco's Adam Snyder to play right guard (Rex Hadnot was cut) and re-signing left tackle Levi Brown. Both specialists — kicker Jay Feely and punter Dave Zastudil — also are back. Arizona insured keeping defensive end Calais Campbell by naming him their franchise player.

Significant losses: Cornerback Richard Marshall, who had a solid 2011 season, left for Miami. The Cardinals signed a potential replacement in William Gay, who had Cardinals defensive coordinator Ray Horton as his position coach in Pittsburgh. Gay will compete with Greg Toler, who is coming off a knee injury. Safety James Sanders (from Atlanta) will provide more veteran depth in the secondary.

Top draft needs: The offensive line, especially at right tackle. Even after selecting Patrick Peterson with the No. 5 overall pick in last year's draft, the Cardinals could still use another young cornerback to develop.

Analysis: After whiffing on Peyton Manning, the Cardinals are preparing for a quarterback competition between John Skelton and Kevin Kolb. With more consistent play under center, Arizona will be a bona fide player contender despite an underwhelming offseason.

Grade: C
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/L.G. Patterson)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
San Francisco 49... Impact moves: The 49ers made a splash before the signing period began by signing wide receiver Randy Moss. The 49ers kept quarterback Alex Smith, linebacker Ahmad Brooks, cornerback Carlos Rogers and wide receiver/returner Ted Ginn Jr. while also adding two members of the Super Bowl-winning New York Giants — running back Brandon Jacobs and wide receiver Mario Manningham.

Significant losses: Josh Morgan, who was the team's best wide receiver in 2011 before suffering a season-ending leg injury, is now with Washington. The 49ers also must identify a lineman who can provide as much versatility as jack-of-all-trades Adam Snyder, who signed with Arizona.

Top draft needs: Nothing is pressing with all 11 starters returning on defense and offseason pickups on offense.

Analysis: The Moss acquisition is intriguing. After spending a year out of football, the 35-year-old Moss may have enough left in the tank to re-emerge as one of the NFL's top deep threats. But there also is a chance his volatile nature could affect the strong team chemistry the 49ers have built under head coach Jim Harbaugh. Kudos to San Francisco's front office for being able to dabble in the Peyton Manning sweepstakes while still being able to retain Smith with a three-year contract.

Grade: B
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Seattle Seahawks Impact moves: The Seahawks did a far better job than Miami in courting Green Bay quarterback Matt Flynn, who will now compete with Tarvaris Jackson for a starting spot. The re-signing of running back Marshawn Lynch and defensive end Red Bryant insured Seattle will keep two of its best players.

Significant losses: The Seahawks were unable to retain linebacker David Hawthorne, who is now with New Orleans after three straight 100-tackle seasons in Seattle. Barrett Ruud (Tennessee) was signed as a lower-priced replacement.

Top draft need: A wide receiver who can stretch the field. Sidney Rice's injury problems continued since he was signed away from Minnesota in 2011 and Mike Williams slumped horribly last year after a 65-catch season in 2010. A prospect like Notre Dame's Michael Floyd, if still available, would fit the bill with the No. 12 overall pick.

Analysis: The Seahawks must hope they've made a better talent evalutation with Flynn than Jackson and Charlie Whitehurst. Both were backups from other teams that failed to cement themselves as starters when given the chance in Seattle.

Grade: B
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
St. Louis Rams Impact moves: The Rams makeover that began when Jeff Fisher was named head coach continued with 10 free-agent acquisitions. Cornerback Cortland Finnegan (Tennessee), center Scott Wells (Green Bay) and defensive end Kendall Langford (Miami) lead the pack.

Significant losses: The Rams not only lost wide receiver Brandon Lloyd to New England, they also yielded a 2012 fifth-round pick to Denver for Lloyd short-term in a desperate midseason trade. Two long-time Rams — punter Donnie Jones (Houston) and cornerback Ron Bartell (Oakland) — are now elsewhere.

Top draft needs: The Rams have a slew of needs but will have an easier time addressing them with the extra picks provided in a trade with the Washington Redskins. For the draft's No. 2 overall pick, St. Louis received Washington's 2012 first- and second-round picks plus 2013 and 2014 first-rounders. Louisiana State cornerback Morris Claiborne, Oklahoma State wide receiver Justin Blackmon and North Carolina defensive end Quinton Coples seem the most likely targets for St. Louis with the No. 6 overall pick.

Analysis: Defensive coordinator Gregg Williams' indefinite suspension because of his ringleader involvement in the New Orleans bounty scandal was a blow to Fisher. But Fisher and new general manager Les Snead did an adroit job helping restock one of the league's most talent-starved rosters.

Grade: A-
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Tom Gannam)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
AFC: Miami Dolph... Impact moves: The large segment of Dolphins fans expecting a series of free-agent upgrades was sorely disappointed. The Dolphins struck out in their pursuit of three quarterbacks — Peyton Manning, Matt Flynn and Alex Smith — before settling on David Garrard as competition for de facto starter Matt Moore. The lone projected starter Miami added in free agency was Arizona cornerback Richard Marshall.

Significant losses: The Dolphins traded wide receiver Brandon Marshall to Chicago for two third-round draft picks without having a replacement in line as the No. 1 pass-catching option. Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland told safety Yeremiah Bell that he wasn't going to get released only to cut him a week into free agency. The callous treatment of a defensive team captain is another reason why Ireland is so reviled among fans and players.

Top draft need: If the Dolphins don't select Texas A&M quarterback Ryan Tannehill, the heat on Ireland will rise even higher. Miami also must find a pass-rushing end to help the productivity of Cameron Wake, who hasn't appeared for offseason workouts because of a contract dispute that Ireland should have addressed long ago.

Analysis: The Miami Herald reported the Dolphins are projected to have $50 million in 2013 cap space. Ireland hasn't proved he should be employed to spend it.

Grade: F
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Buffalo Bills Impact moves: The Bills stunned the NFL by winning the bidding for defensive end Mario Williams, who was considered the prize of the league’s free-agent class. Fellow end Mark Anderson also was signed, giving new defensive coordinator Dave Wannstedt the bookend pass-rushers he wanted in Buffalo’s new 4-3 scheme. The Bills re-signed wide receiver Stevie Johnson, middle linebacker Kirk Morrison and tight end Scott Chandler before the start of free agency.

Significant losses: Left tackle Demetress Bell signed with Philadelphia.

Top draft need: The Bills must decide whether second-year left tackle Chris Hairston is good enough to serve as Bell’s replacement. If not, a top prospect like Iowa’s Riley Reiff would make sense with the No. 10 overall pick. Buffalo also is expected to draft a quarterback in the second or third round.

Analysis: The Bills gave Williams a six-year, $100 million contract that included $50 million in guaranteed money. Buffalo hopes that expenditure sparks a franchise turnaround like when Green Bay — another team considered a free-agent outpost at the time — signed defensive end Reggie White in 1993.

Grade: A
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
New York Jets Impact moves: After a relatively quiet start to free agency, the Jets returned to the tabloid back pages by acquiring Tim Tebow in a trade with Denver. New York also made a low-risk/high-reward signing in safety LaRon Landry (Washington).

Significant losses: Wide receiver Plaxico Burress and running back LaDainian Tomlinson are still free agents after not re-signing.

Top draft need: The Jets have entertained virtually all of the projected first-round wide receiver prospects on pre-draft visits. Safety and a pass-rushing outside linebacker should be other priorities.

Analysis: Rather than sign a conventional free-agent quarterback like Chad Henne or Kyle Orton to push Mark Sanchez, the Jets made the curious call of trading for Tebow. In a perfect world, Sanchez will rebound from a disappointing 2011 campaign and Tebow will shine in limited snaps running the Wildcat offense. In reality, the difficulty in running a two-quarterback system may create problems that undermine both players.

Grade: D
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
New England Patr... Impact moves: Rather than signing “sure-thing” free agents at a loftier price, the Patriots went the bargain-basement route. Guard Robert Gallery, wide receiver Anthony Gonzalez and Bobby Carpenter are former first-round picks signed to modest deals. The Patriots spent a little more to add wide receiver Brandon Lloyd (St. Louis) and defensive end Jonathan Fanene (Cincinnati).

Significant losses: Defensive end Mark Anderson, who had a 10-sack season in 2011, shuffled off to Buffalo. The Patriots continue to avoid making a significant financial investment in running backs by letting leading rusher BenJarvus Green-Ellis leave to Cincinnati.

Top draft need: Forced to play with a patchwork secondary for most of last season, the Patriots could use a youth infusion at cornerback and safety.

Analysis: Although some Patriots fans would love splashier signings — particularly a pass-rusher — New England’s 27-5 regular-season record and Super Bowl appearance over the past two seasons is proof that Bill Belichick knows what he’s doing.

Grade: B
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Ben Margot)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Jacksonville Jag... Impact moves: Upgrading an anemic passing attack was a high priority with wide receivers Laurent Robinson (Dallas) and Lee Evans (Baltimore). The Jaguars also brought in competition for quarterback Blaine Gabbert after his underwhelming rookie season by signing Chad Henne (Miami). Defensively, cornerback Aaron Ross (New York Giants) should improve the secondary provided he can stay healthy.

Significant losses: None.

Top draft need: After whiffing on pass-rushers Derek Harvey and Quentin Groves with its first two picks in the 2008 draft, Jacksonville will likely try to fill that need again in the early rounds.

Analysis: Jaguars general manager Gene Smith is taking a significant gamble that Robinson and Ross — both of whom have injury histories — weren’t one-year wonders in 2011. The Jags also must hope Henne is a viable starting option if Gabbert can’t quickly develop under new head coach Mike Mularkey.

Grade: D
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Stephen Morton)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Indianapolis Col... Impact moves: Quarterback Peyton Manning leads a lengthy list of veterans who were purged. New head coach Chuck Pagano brought three defensive free agents with him from Baltimore — safety Tom Zbikowski and linemen Cory Redding and Brandon McKinney — as he looks to install a 3-4 scheme.

Significant losses: While the Colts did retain three stalwarts in wide receiver Reggie Wayne and outside linebackers Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis, a slew of other mainstays are now gone. Among them are center Jeff Saturday (Green Bay), tight end Dallas Clark (unsigned), wide receiver Pierre Garcon (Washington) and middle linebacker Gary Brackett (unsigned).

Top draft need: Manning’s heir apparent is set to arrive when the Colts select Stanford’s Andrew Luck with the No. 1 overall pick. Expect new general manager Ryan Grigson to focus on surrounding him with young offensive talent through the draft, especially at tight end and running back.

Analysis: The Colts have adopted the phrase “Building a Monster” as their 2012 mantra. Unfortunately for Pagano, Indianapolis needs more parts to create the type of beast that the Colts once fielded.

Grade: C-
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/AJ Mast)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Houston Texans Impact moves: The Texans avoided a potentially messy holdout by signing running back Arian Foster to a long-term contract extension. Center Chris Myers also was re-signed.

Significant losses: No team was hit harder than the Texans. Salary-cap problems led to the departure of veterans like outside linebacker Mario Williams, right tackle Eric Winston, cornerback Jason Allen and right guard Mike Brisiel. DeMeco Ryans, who was a bad fit at inside linebacker in a 3-4 defense, was traded to Philadelphia for a fourth-round pick.

Top draft need: The Texans may use their first-round pick on a wide receiver who can help draw some of the defensive attention away from Andre Johnson.

Analysis: The Texans didn’t just lose talent this offseason. They also must replace the veteran leadership that players like Ryans and Winston provided.

Grade: D
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Tennessee Titans Impact moves: Once eliminated in the Peyton Manning sweepstakes, the Titans struck quickly to augment their pass rush by signing Oakland’s Kamerion Wimbley to a five-year, $35 million contract. Tennessee also added seven-time All-Pro guard Steve Hutchinson to bolster a weak interior offensive line.

Significant losses: The Titans surprisingly didn’t use their franchise tag on cornerback Cortland Finnegan, paving the way for his departure to St. Louis.

Top draft need: Cornerback, center and defensive end.

Analysis: The Titans (9-7) were an under-the-radar surprise last year in Mike Munchak’s first season as head coach. Whether the team can take the next step into the playoffs could depend largely on who wins the upcoming quarterback duel between Matt Hasselbeck and Jake Locker.

Grade: C+
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Wade Payne)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Cleveland Browns Impact moves: The Browns augmented their defensive line with the signing of Juqua Parker (Philadelphia) and Frostee Rucker (Cincinnati).

Significant losses: Cleveland will need a new workhorse running back with Peyton Hillis leaving for Kansas City.

Top draft need: If the Browns don’t believe Colt McCoy is a franchise quarterback, Ryan Tannehill may be too tempting to shun with the No. 4 overall pick. The Browns need more play-makers on offense and a right tackle.

Analysis: Browns fans are getting restless after the first two seasons of the Mike Holmgren-led regime produced a 9-23 record. The lack of free-agent movement this offseason has added to the discontent.

Grade: D
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Ron Schwane)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Cincinnati Benga... Impact moves: Even with a ton of salary cap space, the Bengals were prudent with their free-agent signings. Running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis (New England), cornerback Jason Allen (Houston) and guard Jacob Bell (St. Louis) top the list.

Significant losses: Two members of the defensive line rotation — Frostee Rucker (Cleveland) and Jonathan Fanene (New England) — departed, but the Bengals lined up veteran replacements by signing former top 10 picks Jamaal Anderson and Derrick Harvey.

Top draft need: The Bengals haven’t drafted a safety in the first round since Daryl Williams in 1992. Alabama’s Mark Barron could end that streak. Wide receiver is also high on the priority list for a team with two first-round draft choices thanks to the trade that sent quarterback Carson Palmer to Oakland.

Analysis: The Bengals upgraded their roster while also maintaining enough cap space to extend the contracts of their best young players.

Grade: B+
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Tom Uhlman)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Pittsburgh Steel... Impact moves: Placing a first-round tender on restricted free agent Mike Wallace is proving genius for the Steelers. His inability to sign an offer sheet elsewhere means the Steelers will keep the standout wide receiver for 2012 at a $2.7 million salary.

Significant losses: Like with Indianapolis, the Steelers purged some of their long-time veterans. Linebacker James Farrior and wide receiver Hines Ward were both cut. Defensive linemen Aaron Smith and Chris Hoke are also headed toward retirement.

Top draft need: The Steelers need a big-bodied defensive lineman to groom as a potential replacement for 34-year-old nose tackle Casey Hampton. Inside linebacker might be targeted with Farrior now gone (Alabama’s Courtney Upshaw took a pre-draft visit). Running back could become an early priority with Rashard Mendenhall having suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in early January.

Analysis: Pittsburgh entered the offseason with enough salary-cap trouble that several player contracts were restructured to create room. The Steelers have most of their top talent back, but the offense could look much different under new coordinator Todd Haley than pass-heavy predecessor Bruce Arians.

Grade: C
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Don Wright)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Baltimore Ravens Impact moves: The Ravens kept cornerback Lardarius Webb, a restricted free agent, in the fold with a six-year, $53 million contract extension. Chicago cornerback Corey Graham was signed as a defensive reserve and special teams contributor.

Significant losses: Six defensive players, led by linebacker Jarret Johnson (San Diego) and defensive end Cory Redding (Indianapolis), signed elsewhere.

Top draft need: The Ravens should focus on restocking their defensive front seven.

Analysis: The Ravens have reached the playoffs for four straight years but fallen short of the Super Bowl. The window of opportunity may be closing quickly as linebacker Ray Lewis and safety Ed Reed wind down their Hall of Fame careers. Baltimore also must still deal with the unsettled contract situations of quarterback Joe Flacco and running back Ray Rice.

Grade: C-
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Gail Burton)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
San Diego Charge... Impact moves: For the first time since becoming general manager in 2003, A.J. Smith dipped heavily into the free-agent market for roster upgrades. The Chargers were especially active at wide receiver, signing veterans Robert Meachem (New Orleans), Roscoe Parrish (Buffalo) and Eddie Royal (Denver). San Diego also re-signed two starting offensive linemen in left tackle Jared Gaither and center Nick Hardwick. Linebacker Jarret Johnson (Baltimore) should boost San Diego’s anemic pass rush.

Significant losses: Meachem was a lower-priced replacement for Vincent Jackson, who signed a five-year, $55.6 million contract with Tampa Bay. Running back Mike Tolbert bolted for Carolina, which makes it even more imperative that Ryan Mathews carry the team’s rushing load in 2012. Left guard Kris Dielman retired following a concussion and seizure suffered last season.

Top draft need: With 2009 first-round pick Larry English never developing into the pass-rushing force they had hoped, the Chargers will likely seek an outside linebacker in the early rounds. Cornerback should also be addressed, with starters Quentin Jammer and Antoine Cason set to become unrestricted free agents in 2013.

Analysis: Because he missed on too many picks in recent drafts, Smith was forced to turn toward free agency to address needs. While not ideal for Smith, doing so at least gives him and head coach Norv Turner a fighting chance of getting off the hot seat.

Grade: B
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Denis Poroy)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Denver Broncos Impact moves: There was no bigger move this offseason than the signing of quarterback Peyton Manning to a five-year, $96 million contract. Modest upgrades were made to Manning’s new supporting cast with the signing of tight ends Jacob Tamme (Indianapolis) and Joel Dreessen (Houston) as well as wide receiver Andre Caldwell (Cincinnati).

Significant losses: "Tebow Time" expired in Denver when the Colts acquired Manning. The Broncos acquired a fourth-round pick as part of the trade that sent Tim Tebow to the New York Jets. Denver couldn’t retain defensive tackle Brodrick Bunkley, who signed a five-year, $25 million contract with New Orleans.

Top draft need: Defensive tackle must be addressed early, but the Broncos also may be looking to draft a cornerback. Andre Goodman was released last week and Champ Bailey will be 34 years old this season.

Analysis: The Broncos brilliantly courted the most attractive quarterback ever to hit the free-agent market while also finding a way out of the Tebow quagmire. Denver now must hope that Manning isn’t damaged goods from four neck procedures within a two-year span.

Grade: A+
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Oakland Raiders Impact moves: The Raiders were hamstrung by salary cap restraints but new general manager Reggie McKenzie still found a way to improve his pass rush (ex-New York Giants defensive end Dave Tollefson) and offensive line (ex-Houston right guard Mike Brisiel). Four veteran cornerbacks were added to the secondary following the release of Stanford Routt and Chris Johnson.

Significant losses: The size of Kamerion Wimbley’s contract forced McKenzie to cut ties with his team’s best pass rusher. Running back Michael Bush (Cincinnati), tight end Kevin Boss (Kansas City) and quarterback Jason Campbell (Chicago) now have new homes. To replace Bush as Darren McFadden’s backup, Oakland acquired Mike Goodson from Carolina for reserve offensive lineman Bruce Campbell.

Top draft need: The Raiders could use help at tight end, safety, and along the offensive and defensive lines but McKenzie isn’t dealing with a full selection of picks. Oakland won’t have its original first-, second-, third-, fourth- or seventh-round choices because of prior transactions.

Analysis: McKenzie knew he was inheriting a mess when hired so the offseason difficulties in upgrading the roster are understandable.

Grade: C+
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
Kansas City Chie... Impact moves: The Chiefs signed the best right tackle on the free-agent market following Eric Winston’s surprising release by Houston. Running back Peyton Hillis (Cleveland) and tight end Kevin Boss (Oakland) will play complementary roles on offense.

Significant losses: The Chiefs didn’t come close to re-signing Brandon Carr, who inked a five-year, $50.1 million contract with Dallas. Kansas City hopes that Stanford Routt (Oakland) fares well as a lesser-priced replacement.

Top draft need: Cornerback, defensive line and interior offensive line. The Chiefs also will consider a developmental quarterback to groom behind embattled starter Matt Cassel.

Analysis: Scott Pioli has made great strides rebuilding the roster since becoming Kansas City’s general manager in 2009. The Chiefs also will be buoyed by the return of three of their top young players (safety Eric Berry, running back Jamaal Charles and tight end Tony Moeaki) who spent last season on injured reserve.

Grade: B+
- Alex Marvez (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)

Courtesy of FOXSports.com

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.
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