NFL Frenzy 03.15.20: New CBA sets off flurry - Titans extend Tannehill, 49ers out on Brady; McCourty back?

With the new CBA approved and rules of engagement known to all NFL teams (yes, this was important — how many reports of likely new deals did you hear of since the combine?), things are starting to move when it comes to free agency and trades.

Here's a running thread of the big moves that will affect the Patriots, and some reaction to them:

Report: 49ers "out" on Brady, leaving limited options

Chris Simms, who is very close with 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan, said today that the 49ers are out on Tom Brady and that they are staying the course with Jimmy Garoppolo. Simms also said most NFL people think Brady's decision will come down to the Buccaneers or the Patriots.

I'd like to throw in I've heard the Bucs are more likely to add Teddy Bridgwater than Brady, the Chargers could certainly be an option (I've thought it would come down to the Chargers and Patriots), and Brady could always say screw it and retire.

But, to this point, and things can always change (Brady could offer the 49ers to play for $10 million), this is the way I thought things would play out ... and it's playing into the Patriots' hands.

Still, the more the market dwindles, the chances increase Brady could cut his rate and a surprise team could jump up and steal Brady. Much further to go, but so far, so good for the Patriots.

Devin McCourty returning to Patriots?

https://twitter.com/RapSheet/status/1239242402810007556

I'm not sure if this means it's looking good for a deal — McCourty is sure to get a lot of action should he hit free agency — or it just means the Patriots are just showing that they're "trying" to keep a respected veteran.

Depending on the money, this could put a serious crimp in the Patriots' cap space for Tom Brady and beyond.

Titans close to securing Ryan Tannehill as QB

https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1239234683721994242

As I reported nearly two weeks ago, league sources expected Tannehill to be locked in by the Titans even before free agency so they could use their franchise tag on Derrick Henry.

Obviously this would take the Titans out as an option for Tom Brady. That would leave the Chargers, Bucs and Raiders as possibilities for Brady — but I was told the Raiders are not keen on Brady, especially if it's at double what Derek Carr is costing them ($17 million). Maybe the 49ers swoop in, but that's also believed to be a long shot.

Ravens acquire DE Calais Campbell

https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1239228770986479618

Great player who will help them and be a pain to the Patriots, and a good deal with just a fifth-round pick. But are the Ravens really going to pay Campbell $15 million next season? I have a hard time seeing that.

In any event, this is a rival getting better.

- Developing -