The Arizona Cardinals didn't see much action on the first day of NFL free agency, though they did lose one of their top free agents in DE Zach Allen to the Denver Broncos on a three-year, $45.75 million deal that guaranteed $32.5 million.
Allen priced himself out of Arizona and now joins the staff of defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, who he previously played under with the Cardinals.
Pro Football Focus graded the signing:
Fit/need grade: B
Value grade: C+
Contract: Three years, $45.75 million ($15.25 million per year), $32.5 million total guaranteed
PFF projected contract: Three years, $40 million ($13.3 million per year), $26.75 million total guaranteed
"The Broncos lost Dre’Mont Jones in free agency and replaced him with Zach Allen, who cost them slightly less than what Jones received on the market. The Broncos are paying Allen at the top of the market with this deal, and he reunites with his defensive coordinator in Arizona, Vance Joseph," said PFF.
"From a broad perspective, Allen has registered one season with more than 30 pressures and has never played a full season in his time in the NFL. 2022 was his best year from a grading perspective, totaling career highs in run-defense grade (67.4) and pass-rush grade (71.6). With this deal, it appears the Broncos expect Allen to continue ascending and become an interior force for them for the next couple of years."
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