I disagree with you on contract values. You cannot evaluate the contracts based only on the high dollar amounts. The structures are a huge component. Short term Futures Contracts are not the same as Long Term Immediate Contracts. Unless or until the cap stabilizes, a salary which doesn't start for two years must be discounted to reflect current value. It's the reverse time value of money situation like saying you bought a house for $100,000 when you spent $250,000 over time because of mortgage interest. The current structure is like comparing the $250,000 to the initial $100,000 price. It's apples and oranges.They are related, but not the same.
The best trades are where both sides think they won the trade. But it is possible both did because they both get the player(s) they want because they have different player assessments and needs.
Since Jones went 57 & Slaughter went 63,,, Ravens had their value about right Would have been a good deal for Texans
