Ranking the top 5 free agent signings of 2021 NFL season

Free agent signings occur during every NFL season. While there are always big name players with high expectations, sometimes the diamonds in the rough end up being the difference makers. Here are five of the best free agent signings during the 2021 NFL season.

Best free agent signings of the 2021 NFL season

#1 - RB James Conner, Arizona Cardinals

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner

The Arizona Cardinals signed James Conner to a 1.75 million dollar contract prior to the 2021 NFL season. He ended up being one of the biggest bargains of the year for his massive contributions. He scored 15 rushing touchdowns, the second most in the entire NFL, on his way to a Pro Bowl selection.

#2 - DE Trey Hendrickson, Cincinnati Bengals

Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson

When the Cincinnati Bengals signed Trey Hendrickson from free agency last year, it went a bit under the radar. He ended up being one of the best edge rushers of the 2021 NFL season, recording a massive 14 sacks. His contributions helped improve the Bengals defense, which is a big reason why they made it all the way to the Super Bowl.

Most valuable free agent signings of the 2021 NFL season

Here are five of the best free agent signings during the 2021 NFL season.

#3 - DE Matthew Judon, New England Patriots

New England Patriots defensive end Matthew Judon

The New England Patriots were extremely aggressive during the 2021 NFL offseason period, signing several key free agents to improve their overall roster. The biggest of them all was edge rusher Matthew Judon. He recorded 12.5 sacks on his way to a 2021 Pro Bowl selection.

#4 - WR/RB Cordarrelle Patterson, Atlanta Falcons

Atlanta Falcons Cordarrelle Patterson

After bouncing around to several different teams in his career, Cordarrelle Patterson had the best season of his career with the Atlanta Falcons. He set new career highs in many offensive categories, including rushing and receiving yards, while also scoring 11 total touchdowns. He exceeded 1,000 total offensive yards for the first time in his career.

#5 - WR Odell Beckham Jr., Los Amgeles Rams

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr.

Odell Beckham Jr. was signed by the Rams for just over one million dollars during the 2021 NFL season after he was released by the Cleveland Browns. In less than half of the regular season, he chipped in with five touchdowns. He added two more in the postseason, including one that helped the Rams win Super Bowl LVI.