Looming Moves: NFL Players on the Brink of Release
As the NFL’s free agency frenzy draws near, teams are facing the daunting task of assessing their financial situations and making difficult roster decisions. With the league’s salary cap deadline of March 12th fast approaching, all 32 teams must maneuver their books to ensure compliance. For some, this may involve restructuring contracts or clearing end-of-roster deals. However, for others, more drastic measures, such as releasing notable players, may be necessary.
Kirk Cousins – Atlanta Falcons
Despite General Manager Terry Fontenot’s claims of comfort with Cousins as a backup to Michael Penix Jr., a release remains a possibility. To avoid a $65 million dead cap hit, the Falcons must release Cousins by March 17th. This move would also prevent his $10 million roster bonus for 2026 from becoming guaranteed. Recent revelations by Cousins regarding his injuries could accelerate his departure.
Derek Carr – New Orleans Saints
With the league’s youngest coach, Kellen Moore, at the helm, the Saints are poised for a transition year. However, the extent of their reset will depend on their handling of Carr. His $51.5 million cap hit for 2025 demands action. Despite Carr rejecting a pay cut and holding a no-trade clause, a release may not be ideal given the looming dead cap hit of over $50 million. Moore’s vague comments on Carr’s future suggest that the organization will soon face a difficult decision.
Kyle Juszczyk – San Francisco 49ers
In 2024, Juszczyk expressed disappointment at General Manager John Lynch’s request for a pay cut. This time around, he may not have a choice. With the 49ers preparing to extend quarterback Brock Purdy, Juszczyk’s $6.5 million cap figure may be deemed a luxury.
Davante Adams – New York Jets
Adams, a close friend of Aaron Rodgers, seems destined to follow him out of Green Bay. The Jets could clear nearly $30 million by parting ways with Adams, who has the largest cap hit of any non-quarterback at $38.34 million. Adams could reunite with Rodgers or explore the free agent market, where top-flight pass catchers will be in high demand.
Tyler Lockett – Seattle Seahawks
With his $31 million cap hit for 2025, Lockett’s future in Seattle is uncertain. The emergence of Jaxon Smith-Njigba and a shift towards a run-heavy offense make his release a sensible move for a team over $13 million over the cap.
Cooper Kupp – Los Angeles Rams
The Rams announced their intention to trade Kupp, but his hefty salary and lack of a robust market could complicate matters. Releasing him outright would create $7.52 million in cap space but incur a dead cap hit of over $22.2 million.
Christian Kirk – Jacksonville Jaguars
Kirk’s surprising four-year, $72 million contract in 2022 has raised eyebrows. Despite not replicating his debut season’s success, Kirk’s $24 million cap hit is a burden for a team installing a new offense.
Evan Engram – Philadelphia Eagles
Engram, a two-time Pro Bowler, is facing a similar situation. His release could clear $10 million in cap space, but his solid 2023 season may make it difficult for the Eagles to part with him.
Jack Conklin – Cleveland Browns
With Deshaun Watson’s contract weighing heavily on their books, the Browns need to make some financial adjustments. Conklin, a two-time All-Pro, could be the first to go. Dawand Jones is a potential replacement for the injury-prone veteran.
Grady Jarrett – Atlanta Falcons
Dropping Jarrett, a two-time Pro Bowler, would free up $16.25 million, but his departure would leave a significant void in the Falcons’ defense.
Onyemeta – Atlanta Falcons
Onyemeta’s $16.25 million cap hit is exorbitant for a run-stuffing nose tackle, especially with draft picks Ruke Orhorhoro and Brandon Dorlus waiting in the wings.
Daron Payne – Washington Commanders
Despite having the third-most cap space in the league, the Commanders may consider releasing Payne, who carries a $22.35 million cap hit. JerZhan Newton could potentially replace him alongside Daron Payne, creating $16.47 million in cap savings.
Joey Bosa – Los Angeles Chargers
Bosa’s $36.47 million cap hit is the highest of any defender. Despite his Pro Bowl selection, Bosa has started only 18 games in the last three seasons due to injury. The Chargers may consider moving on from Bosa to save $25.36 million, especially if they re-sign Khalil Mack.
Von Miller – Buffalo Bills
Miller’s six sacks in 2024 hinted at a resurgence, but his situational pass-rushing role and massive $120 million contract are at odds with the Bills’ tight cap situation. A contract renegotiation may be the preferred solution, but something must give.
Jaire Alexander – Green Bay Packers
Alexander, the highest-paid cornerback in 2021, has played only 14 games in the last two seasons. General Manager Brian Gutekunst has expressed frustration with Alexander’s inability to stay on the field. With Keisean Nixon pushing for the No. 1 cornerback role, the Packers may be ready to move on.
Carlton Dean – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
With less than $1 million in cap space, the Buccaneers may reconsider Dean’s $15.1 million cap hit. Zyon McCollum’s breakout season could make Dean expendable, but the Buccaneers may hesitate to weaken their pass defense.
Darius Slay – Philadelphia Eagles
Slay, a key contributor to the Eagles’ Super Bowl victory, has indicated that next season will be his last. While Howie Roseman may be reluctant to part with him, the Eagles may need to make difficult decisions to keep their championship core together.
In conclusion, as the NFL salary cap deadline approaches, several notable players are facing uncertain futures. Teams will be forced to weigh the financial implications of these moves against the potential impact on their on-field performance. The upcoming days and weeks will undoubtedly reshape free agency, with players who are released seeking new opportunities and teams seeking ways to improve their rosters within the confines of the salary cap.
