NFL free agency grades: Instant analysis
A.J. Bouye: Agrees with Jacksonville Jaguars
The #Jaguars are closing in on a deal for former #Texans CB AJ Bouye, per @JamesPalmerTV and me. They are bringing it.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 9, 2017
The Jaguars wildly spent money last year, and it resulted in a 3-13 season. Apparently, that’s not holding back this regime from giving it another go. Jacksonville has reportedly landed A.J. Bouye, the top corner on the market. At 25 years old, his price tag will be massive.
On one hand, Bouye is a terrific corner, and one of the rare free agents whose ability will match his price. On the other, Jacksonville needs to stop throwing around fat wads of cash and start investing in better scouts, and a better draft system. Until that changes, nothing else will.
Grade: B+
Malcolm Smith: Agrees with San Francisco 49ers
LB Malcolm Smith's deal w/ SF a strong one: Five years, $26.5 million with $13m guaranteed, source says. (Up from his $3.5 per year w/ Oak.)
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 9, 2017
The 49ers are the most aggressive team in the early stages of free agency, agreeing to terms with Kyle Juszczyk, Pierre Garćon and now, Malcolm Smith. Smith comes over from the Oakland Raiders, where he played on a one-year, prove-it deal.
He wasn’t impressive, struggling to cover in space while providing only adequate run defense. Last year, Smith tallied 103 tackles a pair of forced fumbles. With the 49ers, he’ll provide insurance against another NoVorro Bowman injury while starting alongside him on the second level.