NFL free agency frenzy

The GIST: After a flurry of rumors and cryptic tweets, NFL free agency begins today at 4 p.m. ET, officially opening the chamber of secrets trading period. Just when you thought the madness was limited to college hoops…

Aaron Rodgers: The longtime Green Bay Packers quarterback (QB) is once again the drama. Rodgers has been heavily linked to the NY Jets — so heavily that one Monday report indicated the four-time MVP was Big Apple bound — but nothing’s officially official just yet, and Rodgers seems to be soaking up every minute in the spotlight.

• As if we needed further proof of his diva status, Rodgers gave NY a free agency wish list, which included signing Packers wide receiver (WR) Allen Lazard, which the Jets did yesterday. Seems like only a matter of time until this saga finally comes to an end.

Elsewhere: There’ve been plenty of other massive moves in the last few days. The Las Vegas Raiders inked former San Francisco 49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo to a three-year contract, filling the void left by disgruntled ex–QB Derek Carr. But Vegas dealt stars too, trading standout tight end and WNBA star Kelsey Plum’s hubby Darren Waller to the NY Giants.

• When it comes to defensive deals, All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey made the biggest splash, joining the Miami Dolphins after winning a Super Bowl with the LA Rams.

• Looking ahead, LA Chargers running back Austin Ekeler, Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson and Arizona Cardinals WR DeAndre Hopkins are a few of the top trade candidates to watch as free agency really heats up. It’s just the beginning.