All NFL teams have begun their spring workouts, conducting organized team activities (OTAs) as they prepare for the mandatory minicamps and summer training camps ahead of the 2025 season. However, rosters are still in flux as some well-known players, including Kirk Cousins of the Atlanta Falcons and T.J. Watt of the Pittsburgh Steelers, have opted out of voluntary workouts, likely in anticipation of moves by their teams.
Following the conclusion of the primary free agency phase and the 2025 draft, NFL teams are gearing up for potential player transactions during the post-June 1 period. This phase is crucial because many player contracts allow teams to move on from veterans without incurring significant financial penalties after June 1, making it an opportune time for trades or releases of higher-salaried players.
The post-June 1 period offers teams flexibility in managing their salary caps, which can result in substantial savings. For example, trading Cousins after June 1 could yield a $27.5 million saving for the Falcons, a stark contrast to the mere $2.5 million saved with a pre-June 1 trade. Similarly, other veterans across the league have similar opportunities to be moved or cut as their teams navigate roster changes.
Key candidates for potential trades or cuts include:
1. **Kirk Cousins (QB, Falcons)** – Cousins is seeking a fresh start after a disappointing benching. The Falcons might part ways with him post-June 1 to save significant cap space. Predicted landing spots include the Saints or Steelers.
2. **Will Levis (QB, Titans)** – The Titans may look to trade or release Levis, especially after drafting Cam Ward. A post-June 1 move could save the team $1.6 million. Possible destinations are the Buccaneers, Lions, or Rams.
3. **Antonio Gibson (RB, Patriots)** – With the Patriots drafting TreVeyon Henderson and extending Rhamondre Stevenson, Gibson may be expendable. A trade post-June 1 could save the team $2.3 million, with potential landing spots being the Broncos or Cardinals.
4. **Tyreek Hill (WR, Dolphins)** – Despite his desire to stay, the Dolphins might consider trading Hill after June 1 for potential savings of around $15 million. Possible suitors include the Broncos and Chargers.
5. **Jaire Alexander (CB, Packers)** – After hints of a breakup, the Packers could save $17 million if they cut or trade Alexander post-June 1. Teams that might be interested include the Commanders or Raiders.
6. **Jalen Ramsey (CB, Dolphins)** – After a rough season, there is speculation regarding Ramsey’s future with Miami as well. Trading him after June 1 could save around $10 million.
These possibilities underscore the dynamic nature of NFL roster management and highlight how the post-June 1 period plays a vital role in shaping team compositions as the 2025 season approaches. As teams assess their needs and financial strategies, fans can look forward to an exciting summer of potential reshuffling and new beginnings for notable veterans.