Packers cut Nelson; Brees stays with Saints

The Associated Press

Adrian Peterson’s short stint in Arizona is over. Jordy Nelson’s long and productive stay in Green Bay has ended, too, while Seahawks tight end Jimmy Graham is headed to the Packers.

Meanwhile, Drew Brees is staying put in the Big Easy and Kirk Cousins will make his first visit as a free agent to Minnesota when the new league year begins Wednesday and is expected to sign with the Vikings, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Peterson, who turns 33 next week, ranks 12th in the NFL in career rushing with 12,276 yards.

Nelson had 550 receptions and 69 touchdown catches in 10 seasons in Green Bay.

As for Graham, 31, the five-time Pro Bowler no longer is the explosive mismatch he once was in the open field, but remains a highly effective red-zone weapon.

Brees agreed to a two-year, $50 million extension with New Orleans, with $27 million guaranteed the first year.

Brees is 39 and wants to finish his career in New Orleans, where he has played since 2006, won a Super Bowl and led what has been one of the most productive offenses in the NFL since he and coach Sean Payton arrived.

“I’ll be here as long as they’ll have me,” Brees said after last season ended.

In other moves:

• Tennessee agreed with New England cornerback Malcolm Butler on a five-year deal worth more than $60 million. They also signed former Patriots running back Dion Lewis to a four-yeal deal.

• The Jets landed arguably the top cornerback on the free-agent market — former Rams “franchise” player Trumaine Johnson.

• Sam Bradford and the Cardinals agreed to a one-year, $20 million contract with a second-year option, also for $20 million.

• Super Bowl champion Philadelphia lost two tight ends, cutting veteran Brent Celek, then seeing Trey Burton agree to a four-year, $32 million contract with Chicago.

• The Bears also will sign Jacksonville receiver Allen Robinson.

• Buffalo agreed to a deal with Carolina offensive tackle Star Lotulelei and re-signed Kyle Williams, who contemplated retirement.

• Kansas City will add receiver Sammy Watkins and middle linebacker Anthony Hitchens.

• The Dolphins were near an agreement with Patriots receiver Danny Amendola.