5 NFL Free Agency Signings that Shocked the World

Top 3 Shocking NFL Free Agency Signings

#3 - Reggie White, DE, Packers

Reggie White of the Green Bay Packers

Reggie White joining the Green Bay Packers was such a shock at the time as Green Bay wasn't seen as a glamorous destination for big name free agents. However, White helped transform that image after arriving in 1993 on a four-year deal worth $17 million.

White would help the Packers win Super Bowl 31 against the New England Patriots, where he would record three sacks, including the game-clinching sack. This would bring the Lombardi Trophy back to Green Bay for the first time since 1967.

#2 - Deion Sanders, CB, 49ers

Deion Sanders of the San Francisco 49ers

Following on from his early days with the Atlanta Falcons, and after playing baseball with the Cincinnati Reds, Deion 'Primetime' Sanders shocked everyone and joined the San Francisco 49ers in 1994. This was arguably his best season in the NFL.

Primetime would win NFL Defensive Player of the Year, recording six interceptions, including a 93-yard pick-six. The 49ers would go on to win the Super Bowl in Sanders' sole season in Red and Gold.

#1 - Brett Favre, QB, Vikings

Brett Favre of the Minnesota Vikings

Easily the most shocking entry on our list is Brett Favre's move to the Minnesota Vikings in 2009. Favre was the starting quarterback of the rival Green Bay Packers from 1992 to 2007, but following a brief stint with the New York Jets, Favre signed a two-year $25 million contract.

Staying in the NFC North meant Favre and the Vikings got two revenge games against the Packers, who had moved on and were now starting youngster Aaron Rodgers at quarterback. Favre would sweep the Packers in his first season as a member of the Vikings, making it all the way to the NFC Championship game. Favre would call time on a legendary career after the 2010 season.