5 free agency signings that changed the course of an NFL franchise
The NFL's free agency period gives teams an opportunity to improve their rosters by signing available players. Sometimes a particular signing can drastically change a franchise's future.
Here are five notable free agency signings who went on to lead their new teams to unexpected levels of success.
Free agents who changed everything for the NFL team that signed them
#5 - Kurt Warner, Arizona Cardinals
Kurt Warner is most remembered for what he did with the St. Louis Rams, where he won two NFL MVP awards, two NFC Championships and a Super Bowl ring.
The Hall of Fame quarterback is also a legend in Arizona Cardinals history as well for what he was able to accomplish for them after signing as a free agent prior to the 2005 season.
9/8/14 – After five seasons, a 27-30 regular season record, two playoff appearances including the 2009 Super Bowl, 100 TDs and 59 INTS for 15,843yds (most with any team in his career), the Arizona Cardinals officially placed former QB Kurt Warner in the Ring of Honor. #RedSea https://t.co/P9cLkj6zu0
Kurt Warner spent five seasons with the Cardinals, but it was in the final two seasons that he made the biggest impact. He helped them reach the playoffs in consecutive seasons, where he combined for four postseason victories.
He earned the Cardinals their first NFC Championship victory and first Super Bowl appearance in franchise history.
#4 - Reggie White, Green Bay Packers
The first free agency period in NFL history occurred during the 1993 offseason and it featured one of the biggest signings of all time.
Reggie White, previously a member of the Philadelphia Eagles, signed with the Green Bay Packers. He will forever be remembered as one of the best pass rushers ever.
Reggie White missed just one game in six total seasons with the Packers, while helping them reach the playoffs every season and winning a Super Bowl ring. He won two Defensive Player of the Year awards on his way to the Hall of Fame.