Washington Redskins: 15 best free agent acquisitions of all-time

The best free agency acquisitions are the ones that glean an unexpected amount of value from their subjects. Reclamation projects fit the criteria, as teams often take low-cost risks on aging assets. The Redskins took such a risk on Vernon Davis in the offseason of 2016, and their buy-low move gave them plentiful returns.

Davis, a former first-round pick and a two-time Pro Bowler with the San Francisco 49ers, seemed to be fizzling out of the league in 2015. He failed to log a touchdown over the first third of the season. He was traded to the Denver Broncos after his 10th season in San Francisco and was underwhelming with his new club.

Davis finished 2015 with the Broncos, winning his coveted Super Bowl ring in the process. But he was never more than a depth option in Denver’s offense, and he was then released to free agency. At 32 years old, it appeared that Davis’ prosperous career was bound to end. But then the Redskins called, and Davis found new life.

Davis burst back onto the scene as an explosive complimentary option on offense in 2016, logging 44 receptions, 583 yards and two touchdowns. In 2017, he built on those numbers, accruing 43 receptions, 648 yards and three touchdowns. His athleticism proved to be ageless, and he was a valuable catalyst for an offense that occasionally needed a kickstart from the sturdy veteran.

In 2018, Davis’ play took a bit of a dive, but he still finished his age-34 season with 25 catches, 367 yards and two touchdowns. Davis could be a cap casualty this offseason, as his 2017 extension is growing less cost-effective by the day. But his uncertain future should not cast a shadow on the value he gave Washington.

Adding offensive weapons can be tough, but Davis gave the Redskins just that for a time, at a premium price.