Written by Cameron DaSilva at FoxSports.com
Super Bowls aren’t won in March, but teams can absolutely better themselves in the early stages of the offseason – particularly in free agency. Although the biggest spenders don’t always see their investments result in an increase in wins (see: Jaguars), holes on the roster need to be filled, and there are only seven rounds in the draft.
As far as this offseason goes, a lot of money has been spent already. The Jaguars, for example, have dished out more money than any other team, spending $168 million on free agents thus far. The Steelers, on the other hand, haven’t improved much at all, having spent just $6.45 million.
Jacksonville is among the most improved teams of the offseason, as are these other six squads.
7. New York Giants
The Giants revamped their defense last year, but this offseason was about addressing the declining offense. By signing Brandon Marshall, Eli Manning now has a big possession receiver opposite Odell Beckham Jr., and a much-needed red-zone threat. D.J. Fluker can compete at both guard and tackle, while Rhett Ellison is a versatile H-back and can ease the pain of New York not having a real weapon at tight end.
The Giants still need a starting running back – Shaun Draughn probably won’t beat out Paul Perkins – and the left tackle spot is still a concern, but the Giants took steps in the right direction this past month. They’ll once again be contenders in the NFC East.
The Colts took guarded chances this offseason with their handful of signings. They’ve spent only $63 million, but the potential return on their investments is large. John Simon is an underrated linebacker with pass-rush ability, while Jabaal Sheard will step in right away at defensive end and put up about seven sacks, if not more. Margus Hunt, a massive defensive end, can also be a role player.
On the other side of the ball, the Colts added Kamar Aiken, a one-year wonder with the Ravens who has the potential to eclipse 1,000 yards in Indianapolis. All of these players will make the Colts better in one way or another as they look to bounce back from missing the playoffs in back-to-back years.
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