The best and worst NFL offseasons ... as of Week 8: Barnwell stacks all 32 teams into seven tiers

J.J. Watt highlighted to Pat McAfee that the Indianapolis Colts are currently running a flawless offense, emphasizing their strong performance early in the NFL season.

After seven weeks of the regular season, it is now an appropriate time to evaluate how NFL teams' offseason acquisitions have fared, moving beyond premature July judgments. The author sorts all 32 teams into tiers based on whether they would repeat their offseason moves, such as drafting players, signing free agents, or hiring coaches, while adjusting for the capital invested. Expectations vary based on factors like draft round or contract value, with the goal of assessing success relative to realistic team spending.

The Colts are praised for an excellent offseason, starting with the signing of quarterback Daniel Jones to a one-year, $14 million deal. Jones has exceeded expectations by leading the NFL in QBR, success rate, and low sack rate, making him a bargain and a potential MVP candidate. Additionally, the hiring of defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo has transformed the defense through exotic pressures and varied looks, generating weekly turnover opportunities. Safety Cam Bynum, signed to a four-year, $60 million contract, has been key in solidifying the secondary, while first-round draft pick Tyler Warren has impressed as a rookie, ranking high in yards per route run and being a candidate for Offensive Rookie of the Year.

However, the Colts faced disappointments with other draft picks: second-round selection JT Tuimoloau was a healthy scratch initially and has seen limited playing time, and third-round cornerback Justin Walley suffered a season-ending ACL injury in camp, reducing their impact. The evaluation concludes that the Colts' offseason moves have largely succeeded, with the team positioned favorably in the tier rankings based on their spending and outcomes.