Predictions for Key NFL Moves Post-June 1 Deadline
For NFL teams and their fans, June 1 is a significant date. It marks the time when teams can declare certain player moves as “post-June 1,” allowing dead-cap money to be spread over two seasons rather than one. This change can provide significant financial flexibility, making previously impossible roster changes feasible.
This date often leads to a flurry of activity, with teams looking to improve their rosters while managing the salary cap effectively. Recent updates from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler on SportsCenter have highlighted key situations involving Philadelphia Eagles’ A.J. Brown, San Francisco 49ers’ Brandon Aiyuk, and New Orleans Saints’ Alvin Kamara. Rival executives are stating that Aiyuk is “untradeable,” while the Kamara situation remains stalled. Reports also indicate that a framework exists for A.J. Brown to join the New England Patriots.
A.J. Brown to the Patriots
The New England Patriots are considered the leading contenders to acquire A.J. Brown. ESPN’s Adam Schefter and SI’s Albert Breer suggest that a framework for a trade is already in place, awaiting only the final deal on compensation. The Eagles are seeking a first-round pick, which New England is reluctant to offer. Financially, a post-June 1 trade would allow Brown’s $40 million cap hit for 2026 to be divided across two seasons, making the trade more feasible. The Eagles have already made several additions to their receiving corps, indicating they may be ready to proceed with the trade soon.
49ers Cut Brandon Aiyuk
Brandon Aiyuk’s situation with the San Francisco 49ers appears to be nearing a resolution. Rival executives have labeled him “untradeable,” largely due to his injuries and voided guaranteed money. The 49ers plan to save approximately $20 million by cutting him post-June 1. The Las Vegas Raiders, who recently drafted quarterback Fernando Mendoza, could benefit by securing Aiyuk as a low-risk, potentially high-reward option to bolster their receiving unit. His contract’s guaranteed money has been voided, allowing for a more affordable signing.
Alvin Kamara Re-Signs with Saints
Despite minimal progress, there is genuine interest from both the Saints and Alvin Kamara in extending his stay. Kamara expressed his happiness with the team’s recent additions, particularly the signing of Travis Etienne. The Saints plan to restructure Kamara’s contract post-June 1, creating an impressive 1-2 backfield combination. Kamara will focus on receiving plays, while Etienne handles the heavier workload, creating a dynamic partnership.
Cole Kmet to the Chiefs
The Chicago Bears have put themselves in a position to trade tight end Cole Kmet by drafting another tight end, Sam Roush. After restructuring Kmet’s contract, a post-June 1 trade would save the Bears about $1.4 million. The Kansas City Chiefs are searching for a tight end, with Travis Kelce nearing retirement. ESPN’s Ben Solak has outlined a potential trade involving a third-round pick for Kmet. His experience and skills fit well with the Chiefs’ offensive plans.
Marlon Humphrey to the Giants
Marlon Humphrey is another player whose future may be elsewhere. The Ravens have opted for youth in their secondary, making Humphrey’s cap hit difficult to manage. By trading him post-June 1, Baltimore can save approximately $15.3 million. For the New York Giants, coached by John Harbaugh, Humphrey presents an ideal fit. His experience and skills would bolster a young secondary. The Giants have the resources to complete the trade, providing Humphrey a chance to reunite with his former coach.