[mmarra82]

The biggest signing of stage 4 has to be kicker, Adam Vinatieri. Vinatieri signed a 4 year deal worth $9.62 million with the Carolina Panthers. The Panthers who lost out on their long term kicker, John Kasay when he signed with Arizona, realize the importance of a super kicker. The Panthers get that in Vinatieri, who has a grade of 9.0. He was on the first All-Pro Team last season with the Pats when he converted 40 of 44 field goals and 24 of 25 extra points. Vinatieri finished the season with 144 points, leading the league.

Cleveland gets the upgrade at tight end they feel they need with the signing of Ken Dilger. Dilger has been part of the Buccanears and their recent run of three straight NFC Title. The Browns hope that $4.52 million over the next 3 seasons can bring them some of the same success. Now Dilger needs to convince Cleveland to bring in a quarterback.

Vinny Testaverde finds himself on the move once again, as he leaves Chicago for Minnesota. Testaverde is expected to come in and start for the season as the Vikes hope their franchise quarterback recovers from repetitive concussion syndrome. Testaverde will have plenty of weapons to work with in running backs Michael Bennett and Onterrio Smith along with all-world Randy Moss and tight end Hunter Goodwin. The Vikes are also trying to secure the signing of Chris Chambers.

Other signings:
FB, Fred McCrary leaves New England for Arizona and $1.4 million over two seasons.

Dante Hall leaves Pittsburgh for Philadelphia for 2 years and $1.37 million.

Dwayne Rudd leaves Tampa Bay for Green Bay for 4 years and $3.96 million.

WR, Kelley Washington resigns with Cincinnati for 2 years and $1.4 million.

T, Barry Stokes heads for Jacksonville from Houston for 2 years and $2.61 million.

CB, Don Davis leaves Cincinnati for Detroit for 2 years and $1.42 million.

Guard Henry Griffin signs a 1 year deal with Cincinatti for $630,000.

Tackle Sammy Williams leaves Jacksonville for Arizona for a 1 year deal worth $670,000.