Every NFL season carries its own distinct set of narratives, shaped by the triumphs, setbacks, and off-field journeys of its stars. The 2023 season has been no exception, showcasing the highs and lows of players whose careers were marked by significant events and performances.
Calvin Ridley's Redemption and Revival
After a tumultuous period, Calvin Ridley made a triumphant return to professional football. Following his 2022 suspension under the NFL's gambling policy and stepping away in 2021 to address his mental health, Ridley recorded impressive stats in 2023 with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He amassed 76 receptions for 1,016 receiving yards and eight touchdowns, proving that he remains a formidable force on the field.
This stellar performance potentially laid the groundwork for Ridley's lucrative four-year, $92 million contract with the Tennessee Titans, where he now averages $23 million annually. His comeback story underscores the unpredictable nature of NFL careers and the resilience required to navigate them.
Stefon Diggs’ Eventful Season and Trade
Stefon Diggs' season with the Buffalo Bills was a mixed bag. He started strong, with 49 catches for 620 yards and five touchdowns in the first six games. However, he didn't manage a single 100-yard game in the last 11 matches. His playoff performance, with 10 receptions for 73 yards across two games, further signaled a challenging period.
March brought significant changes for Diggs, who was traded to the Houston Texans. The trade included Diggs, a 2024 fourth-round pick, and a 2025 fifth-round pick, in exchange for a 2025 second-round pick to the Bills. As part of the transition, Diggs’ contract was reworked, increasing his 2024 salary to $22.52 million from $19.005 million. This move marks a new chapter in Diggs' career as he aims to bring his dynamic play to Houston.
Nick Chubb's Injury Setback
Running back Nick Chubb faced a significant challenge early in the 2023 season, suffering severe injuries to his left knee, including tears to the ACL, MCL, and meniscus, just two games in. This echoed his 2015 injuries while at the University of Georgia, further complicating his recovery pathway.
Chubb, who had an impressive career-high of 1,525 rushing yards in 2022, remains under contract with the Cleveland Browns. His revised deal assures him a fully guaranteed $2.05 million, with potential earnings up to $12.225 million, offering some financial stability as he navigates his rehabilitation process.
Challenges and Changes for Tee Higgins
Injuries also impacted Tee Higgins, limiting him to 12 games in 2023. Despite these setbacks, he still managed 42 receptions for 656 yards and five touchdowns. The Bengals, recognizing his value, designated Higgins as a franchise player for $21.816 million. However, Higgins has requested a trade, setting the stage for potential shifts in the Bengals' roster dynamics. Simultaneously, the Bengals are planning a blockbuster contract extension for Ja'Marr Chase, highlighting their focus on retaining key talent.
Ronnie Stanley's Restructured Deal
Ronnie Stanley has struggled with injuries since signing a five-year, $98.75 million extension in 2020. Participating in only 26 out of 61 possible games, Stanley's availability has been a concern. Last season, he appeared in 13 games, a sign of improving stability.
Stanley has agreed to a substantial pay cut for 2024, reducing his compensation from $15 million to $7.5 million. However, the restructured contract includes incentives, potentially boosting his earnings to a maximum of $17.5 million, contingent on playtime and honors.
Falcons’ Optimism Around Kyle Pitts
Kyle Pitts, a standout rookie with 1,026 receiving yards and a Pro Bowl selection, has seen his production dip over the last two seasons due to injuries. Despite recording 1,023 yards in 27 games during this period, the Atlanta Falcons remain optimistic about his potential under new head coach Raheem Morris. "New Falcons coach Raheem Morris expressed excitement about how Pitts will be utilized," highlighting the team's belief in his capabilities.
Marquise Brown Joins Chiefs Amid Challenges
Marquise Brown experienced a career-low in 2023, with 574 receiving yards on 51 catches across 14 games. Despite this, he secured a one-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs, worth $7 million, with potential incentives increasing the value to $11 million. Brown’s challenges continue as he deals with a dislocated left shoulder, which is expected to sideline him for the regular-season opener against the Ravens.
Narratives of Najee Harris, Jawaan Taylor, and Others
Najee Harris has consistently surpassed 1,000 rushing yards each season but faces uncertainty as the Steelers opted not to exercise his fully guaranteed $6.79 million fifth-year option for 2025. Meanwhile, the Patriots extended Rhamondre Stevenson with a four-year, $36 million deal, featuring over $17 million guaranteed, fortifying their backfield.
Jawaan Taylor, known for leading the NFL in penalties and penalty yards in 2023, signed a substantial four-year, $80 million contract with Pittsburgh, including $60 million guaranteed. Taylor is set to earn $20 million in fully guaranteed salary in 2025, reflecting the Steelers' investment in their offensive line.
In Detroit, Jameson Williams, the 12th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, posted 24 receptions for 354 yards and two touchdowns over 12 games last season. His future looks promising with a fully guaranteed option year salary exceeding $15 million. However, Josh Reynolds has departed for Denver, leaving room for Williams to step up.
The Tennessee Titans have bolstered their receiving corps with Treylon Burks, DeAndre Hopkins, and the newly acquired Tyler Boyd, providing quarterback Ryan Tannehill with a trio of talented targets. Treylon Burks, who had 49 receptions for 665 yards and a single touchdown in 21 games since being drafted, looks to improve his performance alongside seasoned veterans Hopkins and Boyd.
As the NFL continues to evolve, these player movements and performances will undoubtedly shape the upcoming season, delivering fresh narratives and challenges for fans and teams alike.