NFL free agency is just around the corner, and the Miami Dolphins are already shaking things up. They’ve officially released wide receiver Tyreek Hill and may also cut edge rusher Bradley Chubb. As the March 11 deadline approaches, every team needs to trim their rosters to meet salary cap requirements. Free agency starts on March 9, making this a critical time for all 32 teams aiming to secure top players.
To manage their finances, teams often release players with hefty contracts that might not be justifiable anymore. Usually, these players have finished their guaranteed contracts, making it easier for teams to cut them without severe cap penalties. Some teams may even take on “dead money” penalties rather than keep players who aren’t living up to their contracts.
Let’s look at 25 players who might be on the chopping block before the cap deadline. Some are almost guaranteed to be cut, while others depend on team decisions. These players could provide value elsewhere.
1. Danna, 28: After a promising start with 17 sacks in four years, Danna’s performance slipped after signing a big contract. With just 4.5 sacks over two years, cutting him would only cost $2 million in dead money.
2. Stewart, 32: A seasoned player with 109 starts, Stewart saw his ranking drop drastically, making him an unlikely candidate to stay with a $12 million non-guaranteed salary.
3. Carter, 26: Initially brought in as backup, Carter played minimally last season. At $10 million, his future depends on whether the Eagles see a bigger role for him.
4. Mixon, 29: He missed all of 2025 due to injury but had a solid performance in 2024. $8 million is on the line, and Houston may decide to move on given his uncertainty.
5. Hockenson, 28: As a highly-paid tight end, Hockenson has struggled with injuries, and it may not be worth the $16 million he’s set to earn. Possible destinations include Jacksonville.
This isn’t just about numbers; teams need to balance finances with performance and potential. As the NFL landscape shifts, some players must weigh their options carefully. Recent statistics reveal that nearly 45% of teams changed their rosters significantly last season, highlighting how fluid the situation can be.
In this environment, fan reactions can define a team’s off-season. Social media shows mixed feelings about cutting star players, as fans express both concern and excitement about the potential for new talent.
As this season unfolds, expect to see more teams reshaping their rosters. The next few weeks will be pivotal, and how they handle these changes may determine their success in the upcoming season. For more on team updates, check out ESPN’s analysis for the latest insights.
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