The NFL offseason can be a big deal, even if salary-cap cuts don’t seem exciting. Players’ contracts impact teams’ futures, sometimes leading to surprising twists and turns.
For instance, in March of last year, the Los Angeles Rams released wide receiver Cooper Kupp due to declining performance despite his previous success. He quickly signed with the Seattle Seahawks, his childhood team, and went on to have a fantastic season. This shows how player movements can reshape narratives.
As teams look to finalize their rosters, some players are on the chopping block this offseason. Let’s explore a few key contenders:
Arizona Cardinals – RB James Conner
The Cardinals face tough choices, especially with quarterback Kyler Murray in limbo. Conner, who recently suffered a bad foot injury, could be cut to save $8 million. Although he’s a respected player, his health might make room for younger talent.
Atlanta Falcons – QB Kirk Cousins
Cousins had a strong finish last season, but his hefty contract could lead to his release. If he’s let go, there’s a chance he could return with the Falcons at a lower salary, especially as they seek stability at quarterback with Michael Penix Jr. still recovering from injury.
Baltimore Ravens – DL Broderick Washington
The Ravens might part ways with Washington, but the more significant question is about cornerback Marlon Humphrey. After a tough year, releasing him could free up cap space but might not be an easy decision.
Buffalo Bills – WR Curtis Samuel
For the Bills, cutting Samuel could open up over $6 million to refresh their receiving corps. With inconsistent performances in recent years, it seems like a strategic move to look for new options.
Carolina Panthers – DT A’Shawn Robinson
Robinson had a solid first season but faces cuts due to budget constraints. The Panthers may choose to save money through a release or ask him for a pay cut instead.
Chicago Bears – LB Tremaine Edmunds
Edmunds could be let go to free up $15 million, but this poses a dilemma, as he was a key player last season. The team might look for ways to restructure that contract instead.
Cincinnati Bengals – DT B.J. Hill
Hill’s name is buzzing as a potential cut. The Bengals could save nearly $5 million, a move they might consider if they find a more suitable replacement.
On social media, fans love to speculate about these moves, often sharing memes and hot takes about their favorite players leaving or joining rival teams.
Historically, we’ve seen low-profile cuts that ended up significantly altering team dynamics, mirroring how Kupp’s departure affected the Rams and sparked a fresh narrative for the Seahawks.
As teams wrestle with their financial strategies, it’s clear that the offseason is more than just a series of transactions; it’s a critical period for shaping the future of franchises.
For a deeper look into NFL salary caps and player movements, check out resources like Over The Cap or Spotrac.
While some players may face the end of their time with a team, others could find new beginnings—or wrap up their careers with a triumphant return.
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