Best free agent signing by every team in NFL history

AFC West

Denver Broncos: WR Ed McCaffrey

After working as a secondary receiver with the Giants and 49ers, McCaffrey found a home in Denver. McCaffrey formed a strong connection with John Elway, teaming with Rod Smith to help the Broncos win consecutive Super Bowls in the late 90s. This was a close call with Peyton Manning meriting consideration but the extra ring is a bonus point in McCaffrey’s favor.

Kansas City Chiefs: RB Priest Holmes

A lightly used back with the Baltimore Ravens, Holmes wasn’t expected to do much when he signed with the Chiefs in 2001. Holmes instead emerged as one of football’s best running backs, putting up three dominant years between 2001 and 2003. Injuries put an end to that dynamic peak but there is no question that Holmes was the best free-agent pickup in Chiefs’ history.

Las Vegas Raiders: QB Rich Gannon

Gannon was a journeyman for most of his career before finding new life with the Oakland Raiders, who signed him in 1999. Jon Gruden saw Gannon reach four straight Pro Bowls, culminating with an NFL MVP winning season in 2002 as the Raiders reached the Super Bowl. Age caught up to Gannon after that, but he still put together some incredible football for the Silver and Black.

Los Angeles Chargers: LB Donnie Edwards

An ascending player for the Chiefs in the late 90s, Edwards bolted for the Chargers as a free agent in 2002. San Diego gave Edwards a five-year contract and he rewarded them with a pair of Pro Bowl appearances, racking up at least 128 tackles every season. The deal proved to be a very wise investment for the Chargers, who made the playoffs twice when Edwards was on the team.