[mmarra82]

15 Players inked new deals, the top signings were:

Aaron Smith, DE - The Jets have signed the defensive end they coveted since the beginning, officially ending the chance that Shaun Ellis could be resigned. The Jets signed Smith to a 4 year deal worth $7.05 million. Smith spent the first five seasons of his career with Pittsburgh, in 2004 Smith played for the Cowboys starting 4 games and recording 18 tackles and 5 sacks.

Jason Ferguson, DT - The Seahawks nabbed Ferguson with their first offer, eliminating the Jets plans to perhaps resign Fergy. Ferguson signed a 3 year deal worth $3.62 million. Ferguson was perhaps the best defensive tackle available in this year's free agency class at playing the run. Ferguson recorded 33 solo tackles last season.

Matt Stevens, S - Seattle continued their efforts in solidifying their defense with the signing of Stevens to a 3 year, $2.43 million deal. Stevens spent last season with Carolina. Stevens is a hard hitter who supports the run well. Stevens will compete with last year's starter Ken Hamlin, and this year's signing of Jay Bellamy for time at Free Safety. Seattle has signed 9 players during free agency, 6 on the defensive side of the ball.

Antuan Edwards, S - The Raiders found a stong safety in Edwards for the next two seasons at $1.47 million. Edwards started just 5 games for the Packers last season but managed 45 solo tackles for a tackle percentage of 15.7.

Dwayne Carswell, TE - Cincinnati signed their second tight end of the free agency signing period for 2 years, $1.71 million. Carswell is expected to be relief for Anthony Becht, and in on two tight end sets. The seasoned vet caught 27 passes for the Broncos last seasons.

Ovie Mughelli, FB - The Patriots continue to sign offensive players, this time the fullback, Mughelli. He signed a 3 year deal worth $1.63 million. Mughelli started 26 games over the past two seasons for the Ravens. He is a versatile back who can run, catch and block. The Patriots hope Mughelli will improve a running game that struggled last season.

Lance Briggs, OLB - The 2003 defensive rookie of the year signed with the Seahawks for 3 years, and $1.43 million. Briggs was drafted by the Bears in the 3rd round of the 2003 draft and started 16 games as a rookie. However, last season Briggs started just 3 games after losing his spot to Nail Diggs.

Other signings:
Darrell Jackson, WR - Signed with New England, 2 years, $1.62 million from Houston.
Matt Wilhelm, OLB - Signed with Cleveland, 3 years, $1.43 million from San Diego.
Kevin Mathis, CB - Signed with Jacksonville, 3 years, $2.81 million from Denver.