Let’s take a look at a few bargain bin acquisitions that paid off in 2015:
Ted Ginn, Jr. – Carolina
When Kelvin Benjamin was felled by an injury in August of 2015, the Panthers appeared to be sunk with little pass-catching talent for Cam Newton to throw to. Fortunately for them, five months prior, they brought Ginn back to Carolina after he spent one unspectacular season with the Arizona Cardinals. His return couldn’t have come at a better time. Ginn performed at a high level in Benjamin’s absence. He lead all Panthers receivers with 44 receptions, 739 receiving yards, and 10 touchdowns. Carolina reaped a fruitful harvest for a 2015 cap hit just shy of $2 million dollars.
James Jones – Green Bay
Speaking of homegoings, the Green Bay Packers also reunited with a familiar face in receiver James Jones. Up until 2014, he’d spent his entire career in Wisconsin. After a one-year stint in Oakland, Jones returned to Green Bay on a “prove it” deal that paid him less than $1 million last season. The Packers got a maximum return on their investment when he caught 50 balls for 890 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns. Jones could find himself on the unemployment line again this week. Despite impressive production, he’s still unlikely to command top dollar on the open market. Jones will be 32 years old when the new season starts.
Next: Two quality defensive pickups...