Day 1 of the NFL free agency has concluded, marking a significant turning point for teams in the NFC East. Fans are buzzing with the latest updates, and we're here to break down the noteworthy movements team by team, starting with the defending NFC champions, the Philadelphia Eagles.

Philadelphia Eagles: A Tough Start

The Eagles faced a tough first day, losing several key players while remaining silent on new signings. They were expected to take significant hits, and the losses were substantial:

Key Departures:

- iDL Milton Williams: Williams landed a jaw-dropping four-year deal worth $104 million with the New England Patriots. He was the Eagles' 15th most crucial player last season, highlighting the remarkable depth of their roster. With his departure, rookies Jordan Davis and Moro Ojomo will need to step up next season, and the Eagles may utilize their draft picks to strengthen their interior line.

- EDGE Josh Sweat: The talented edge rusher also found a new home, signing a four-year deal worth $76.4 million with the Arizona Cardinals. With Sweat's exit and the potential retirement of veteran Brandon Graham, the Eagles will have to rely on younger talents like Nolan Smith and Jalyx Hunt.

- CB Isaiah Rodgers: Signing a two-year deal worth approximately $11 million with the Minnesota Vikings, Rodgers leaves a gap in the secondary, especially with Darius Slay likely departing as well. This opens the door for Kelee Ringo to become a starter next season.

- QB Kenny Pickett: The former backup quarterback has signed with the Cleveland Browns, leaving a notable vacancy in the Eagles' lineup. Despite struggling to find consistent footing in Philadelphia, Pickett will compete for a starting role in Cleveland, while Tanner McKee steps up as the new QB2 behind Jalen Hurts.

Fresh Faces:

- QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson: The Eagles have acquired Thompson-Robinson as part of the trade involving Pickett. Though he has only five career starts, his mobility could provide an intriguing backup option as he competes for the QB3 position.

Washington Commanders: A Mixed Bag

The Commanders approached Day 1 with excitement but left some fans puzzled with their moves:

New Additions:

- LT Laremy Tunsil (via trade): After giving up substantial draft capital, including a second-round pick, the Commanders secured Tunsil, who carries a significant cap hit of $21.35 million annually over the next two seasons. While he undoubtedly performs better than last season's starters, his mounting penalties may raise concerns.

- iDL Javon Kinlaw: Kinlaw's signing was unexpected, netting a three-year deal worth $45 million despite inconsistent play. His size is impressive, but he has faced criticism for being a mediocre run defender, raising questions about the signing's strategic value.

- P Tress Way: A veteran presence, Way has anchored the Commanders' punting game since 2014.

Departures:

- WR Dyami Brown and S Jeremy Chinn also left, with the former signing a one-year deal worth $10 million with the Jaguars, while Chinn joined the Raiders after a strong season.

Dallas Cowboys: Treading Water

The Cowboys entered Day 1 with limited expectations, and they stayed true to their word with minimal activity:

Key Retained Players:

- DT Osa Odighizuwa: Signing Odighizuwa to a four-year, $80 million deal was necessary due to the Cowboys’ thin interior defensive line.

- RB Javonte Williams and S Markquese Bell also returned, but Dallas fans may have hoped for more activity to stay competitive in a tough division.

Lost Players:

- SCB Jourdan Lewis and EDGE Chauncey Golston both found new homes, with Lewis landing a lucrative deal with the Jaguars.

New York Giants: Moderate Moves

The Giants had a quieter day but made some strategic signings:

Notable Additions:

- WR Darius Slayton: Surprisingly re-signed for three years at $36 million, with Slayton looking to regain prominence among the Giants' receiving corps.

- CB Paulsen Adebo: The Giants added depth in the secondary with a three-year deal worth $54 million for Adebo, who needs to bounce back from injury.

Conclusion

Day 1 of NFL free agency left NFC East teams in various states of flux. The Eagles’ substantial losses raise questions about their chances to defend their conference title, while the Commanders attempted to bolster their roster around emerging talents. The Cowboys’ approach suggests they’re banking on internal development, and the Giants are cautiously rebuilding. As free agency continues, fans will be watching closely to see how these teams respond ahead of the upcoming season. Stay tuned for more updates and analyses!