With only eight teams still in the hunt for this year's Lombardi Trophy, most NFL franchises are in full offseason mode.

Scouting events will begin en masse in January, leading up to the NFL Scouting Combine in late February. The legal tampering window and free agency follow in mid-March, and the 2024 NFL draft is in late April.

Teams will use those tentpole events to try to fix whatever ailed them in 2023.

We spent all season chronicling each team's biggest weaknesses on a weekly basis. This offseason, B/R's Alex Ballentine (AFC) and Kris Knox (NFC) will provide updated analysis for all of the ways each team can improve ahead of the 2024 campaign.

This week, we'll examine potential cap casualties for every team. The 2024 cap is expected to exceed $240 million, and not every franchise is in a dire salary situation. However, most teams can, and likely will, look to create more cap space before the start of the new league year on March 13.

Below, we'll look at the three most likely cap casualties for every team based on factors such as cap space, player contracts, roster makeup and team trajectory.

Arizona Cardinals

Projected Cap Space: $52 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. WR Zach Pascal - $2.7 Million

The Arizona Cardinals appear content to continue their rebuild with quarterback Kyler Murray under center. They have enough cap space to do some solid work in free agency, but they have some options for generating even more.

Wide receiver Zach Pascal was signed to a two-year, $4.5 million contract last offseason. However, he failed to make a significant impact in the passing game. He appeared in 14 games but caught just four passes for 19 yards and played as many special-teams snaps (202) as he did offensive snaps.

Releasing Pascal would save $1.9 million off the 2024 cap, giving Arizona just a bit more capital with which to build around Murray.

2. OL Dennis Daley - $1.8 Million

If the Cardinals want to further trim salary, they may consider moving on from backup offensive lineman Dennis Daley. The 2019 sixth-round pick signed a two-year, $3.2 million deal in the offseason but rarely saw the field.

Daley landed on injured reserve in late August with an ankle injury and wasn't activated until October. He appeared in five games with one start but didn't play particularly well. According to Pro Football Focus, Daley allowed two sacks in 144 offensive snaps.

Cutting ties with the 27-year-old before the final year of his deal would generate an additional $1.6 million in cap room.

3. OT D.J.Humphries - $22.9 Million

While the Cardinals might not be quick to move on from 2015 first-round pick D.J. Humphries, it's a move they'll likely consider. The 30-year-old has mostly been OK as the team's starting left tackle, when healthy, and he was a Pro Bowler in 2021.

However, Humphries has been wildly inconsistent and has been injury-hampered over the last two seasons. A neck injury limited him to eight games in 2022, and he suffered a torn ACL in Week 17 this past season. Humprhries wasn't great before the injury and was responsible for nine penalties and four sacks allowed, per PFF.

Humphries was already dealing with an MCL injury and can't have ACL surgery until that heals, so there's a good chance he won't be available to start the 2024 season. Arizona may seek an upgrade at left tackle this offseason anyway, and releasing Humphries with a post-June 1 designation would save $16 million in cap space.

Atlanta Falcons

Projected Cap Space: $37.8 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. QB Taylor Heinicke - $8.5 Million

With head coach Arthur Smith out, the Atlanta Falcons could see some pretty dramatic changes during the 2024 offseason.

The biggest priority for the new regime will be finding an answer at quarterback. Taylor Heinicke isn't it, and while he could provide valuable quarterback depth and/or be a middle-tier bridge starter, Atlanta might find more value in moving on entirely. New coaches love to bring in familiar players, especially at the QB position.

Releasing Heinicke would immediately create $6.5 million in cap savings.

2. TE Jonnu Smith - $9 Million

If big changes do happen, Jonnu Smith—who was acquired in a trade to be the No. 2 tight end behind Kyle Pitts—could be out.

Smith was highly productive in 2023, finishing with 50 catches for 582 yards and three touchdowns. However, he's entering the final year of his contract and will hold less value if the next offensive coach doesn't prioritize two-tight-end sets.

Releasing Smith would save $6.5 million in cap space.

3. S Richie Grant - $2.6 Million

Atlanta shouldn't be in line for a defensive overhaul, as the Falcons were generally solid on that side of the ball. However, safety Richie Grant was a liability in pass coverage, while rookie safety DeMarcco Hellams came on strong late in the season.

Grant allowed an opposing passer rating of 126.6 in coverage and surrendered 543 yards and six touchdowns over the course of the season.

If the next coach believes that Hellams is ready to take over full-time, Grant could be out. Cutting him would save $1.8 million in cap space.

Baltimore Ravens

Projected Cap Space: $5.7 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. EDGE Tyus Bowser - $7.5 Million

Tyus Bowser is set to be the seventh-highest-paid active player on the roster in 2024, but his 2023 contributions were not commensurate with that kind of pay. He played 64 percent of the defensive snaps in nine games, generating two sacks and seven total pressures.

Bowser was limited to nine games by a knee injury, but his lack of production when healthy combined with a tight salary cap situation makes him a prime candidate to be cut. The Ravens will hope that David Ojabo can come back healthy and have a breakout season. They also have to consider freeing up money to re-sign Jadeveon Clowney.

Cutting Bowser would save $5.5 million against the cap with a $2 million dead cap charge.

2. OT Morgan Moses - $7 Million

This is a tough one because Morgan Moses played really well this season. He was ranked 15th among all tackles by Pro Football Focus despite giving up five sacks. However, he is still one of the few players that can clear a significant amount of space and he will be 33 years old next season. Releasing him would save $5.5 million against the cap.

With players like Justin Madubuike and Geno Stone on the list of free agents they need to re-sign, parting ways with Moses before his age starts to show will have to be a consideration.

3. OL Patrick Mekari - $6.4 Million

Patrick Mekari came in clutch this season for the Ravens, but they are going to have to make some difficult decisions this offseason. As the Ravens utility offensive lineman, Mekari played 580 snaps as a reserve tackle, earning a PFF grade of 69.5 and giving up five sacks.

Mekari is an ideal sixth man on the line because he has a guard build, but just enough athleticism to fill in at tackle. With Ronnie Stanley out for some time, he stepped in and started seven games this season. He has started 36 games in five seasons, but he would clear $4.4 million in space if they release him.

Buffalo Bills

Projected Cap Space: -$43.6 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. C Mitch Morse - $11.5 Million

Cutting Morse might be a touchy subject. The 31-year-old has been a mainstay on the offensive line since 2019. He's started 77 games for the Bills over the last five seasons, but there comes a point when the salary cap savings has to be weighed. Moving on from Morse would clear $8.5 million for a team that is going to have to move some serious numbers around just to be in the black.

Morse has been a solid center, but he ranked 18th by PFF's metrics and is set to carry the sixth-highest cap hit of any center in the league, per Spotrac. The Bills could find a cheaper alternative with a higher ceiling by cutting Morse and turning to the draft to find his replacement.

2. WR Deonte Harty - $5.6 Million

The Bills face a tight cap situation this spring so they are going to have to start looking at some luxuries that they can do without. Paying a return man $5.6 million could be on that list. Harty will always be remembered for the punt return that beat the Dolphins in the final week of the season but his stay in Buffalo could be short-lived.

Harty brought little to the table as a receiver catching just 15 passes for 150 yards. They would save $4.2 million against the cap by releasing him.

3. RB Nyheim Hines - $5.5 Million

Nyheim Hines is the most obvious cut candidate on the Bills roster. They could clear just over $5 million of salary cap space with a minimal dead cap charge of $500,000. Hines was brought in to be a part of a backfield that lost Devin Singletary this offseason, but a jet skiing accident caused a knee injury that ended his season before it even started. It's an unfortunate reality that the injury will crater his value in 2024.

The emergence of James Cook and the availability of a strong free agent class at the position makes Hines unlikely to stick around on his current contract.

Carolina Panthers

Projected Cap Space: $40.4 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. TE Ian Thomas - $6 Million

Given the struggles we saw from the team throughout the 2023 season, the next Carolina Panthers regime may seek sweeping changes across the roster. Familiar faces like tight end Ian Thomas could be on the way out.

Thomas has never quite solidified himself as a dependable pass-catcher, and a calf injury limited him to 12 games with five starts in 2023. In those games, the 27-year-old provided just five catches for 56 yards and one first down.

Releasing Thomas would generate a $3.8 million dead-cap hit but would also save $2.3 million in cap space.

2. WR Terrace Marshall Jr. - $1.8 Million

Even the former regime was prepared to give up on 2021 second-round pick Terrace Marshall Jr. The Panthers gave Marshall permission to seek a trade ahead of the 2023 deadline, but no deal emerged.

Considering Marshall has only recorded 767 receiving yards in three seasons and played sparingly in 2023, that didn't come as a surprise.

Carolina may look to deal Marshall again before the start of the new league year, and it's hard to see the next coach being eager to give him another chance. The 23-year-old is entering the final year of his rookie deal, and the Panthers can save $1.4 million by cutting him.

3. C Bradley Bozeman - $7.6 Million

Center Bradley Bozeman was much more impactful than Thomas or Marshall in 2023, starting all 17 games and playing 100 percent of the offensive snaps. However, if Carolina's next head coach is looking to overhaul the offensive line, Bozeman could be out.

The line was an overall liability for the Panthers and rookie quarterback Bryce Young. Bozeman was one of the unit's more dependable players, but he was still responsible for five penalties and eight sacks allowed, according to Pro Football Focus.

A restructuring could be in order, but releasing Bozeman with a post-June 1 designation would clear $6 million in 2024 cap space.

Chicago Bears

Projected Cap Space: $62.1 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. S Eddie Jackson - $18.1 Million

The Chicago Bears are entering a good cap situation, but with much of the offensive staff out and some shuffling to be expected—not to mention a big decision regarding quarterback Justin Fields—Chicago may look for more room.

That could lead to the release of longtime safety Eddie Jackson. While the 30-year-old brings a veteran presence to the back end of Chicago's defense, he had an up-and-down 2023 campaign. In coverage, Jackson allowed an opposing passer rating of 120.6.

Jackson is also entering the final year of his contract and is set to carry the third-highest cap hit on the roster. Releasing him would save $12.6 million in cap space.

2. OL Cody Whitehair - $13.3 Million

Cody Whitehair is another longtime Bears veteran who fans may be forced to say goodbye to this offseason. The versatile interior lineman had started every game in which he had appeared before moving to a bench role in the latter part of this season.

Whitehair, who can start at guard or center, could return as a valuable backup, but probably not at his current price point.

Like Jackson, Whitehair is entering the final year of his contract and will carry a significant cap hit. Releasing him would save the Bears $9.1 million in cap space.

3. RB Travis Homer - $2.1 Million

Running back Travis Homer was a new addition to Chicago this year, signing a two-year, $4 million deal in the offseason.

While Homer was expected to add depth to the running back room, he never challenged the trio of Khalil Herbert, Roschon Johnson and D'Onta Foreman. He appeared in 16 games but played almost exclusively on special teams—with six offensive snaps.

While there's value in keeping a core special-teamer, the Bears may prefer to give a roster spot to a cheaper or more versatile player. Cutting Homer would clear $1.9 million in salary room.

Cincinnati Bengals

Projected Cap Space: $69.8 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. CB Mike Hilton - $7.5 Million

Only $1 million of HIlton's 2024 cap hit is guaranteed so the Bengals could save $6.5 million against the cap by cutting Hilton. They have a lot of cap space on paper, but big free agents are coming down the pike. Tee Higgins, D.J. Reader, Tyler Boyd and Jonah Williams headline this year's class, but Ja'Marr Chase will be extension-eligible and Trey Hendrickson hits the market next offseason.

Hilton played well as the team's slot corner this season, but they already have an in-house replacement in Dax Hill. He can play both safety and in the slot, but has appeared more comfortable in the latter role.

2. LB Germaine Pratt - $6.9 Million

This is about value. Pratt is scheduled to be the ninth-highest-paid linebacker in the league in 2024. He doesn't necessarily bring that kind of value to the table. He was ranked 54th out of 83 linebacker graded by PFF this season and he just doesn't make that many splash plays. There's value in consistency at the position, but the Bengals can probably fill his role more cheaply.

None of Pratt's money is guaranteed, so the Bengals can release him and all $6.9 million of his cap hit becomes cap space.

3. S Nick Scott - $4.3 Million

The cap savings here aren't all that significant. They would free up $2.3 million by cutting Scott, but it's kind of a no-brainer based on his role by the end of the season. Scott was brought in to be a veteran presence in the safety room and be insurance for rookie Jordan Battle. As the rookie started playing better, Scott's playing time dwindled.

By the end of the season, Scott was only playing about 8-10 snaps a game. The Bengals should enter 2024 with enough trust in Battle to cut Scott.

Cleveland Browns

Projected Cap Space: -$13.9 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. RB Nick Chubb - $15.8 Million

The NFL is a hard business, especially for running backs. Nick Chubb has been a fan-favorite and a real asset throughout his six years with the club, but he's a 28-year-old running back coming off of a season-ending injury that required two surgeries. Chubb is expected to make a recovery that will allow him to return during the 2024 season.

Still, paying top dollar for a running back who is hitting the age where many backs decline and is coming off a potentially career-altering injury is a tough pill to swallow. The Browns would save $11.8 million against the cap by releasing Chubb, even if they turn around and re-sign him to a smaller deal.

2. K Dustin Hopkins - $3 Million

Dustin Hopkins has been excellent for the Browns this season. He's connected on 33 of 34 field goal attempts, although a hamstring injury kept him out of the team's game against the Houston Texans. The problem is that they don't have many contracts they can get out of that actually clear some cap space and none of Hopkins' $3 million is guaranteed so they could clear $3 million by parting ways.

3. TE Jordan Akins - $2.4 Million

One thing this exercise makes clear is that the Browns will have to utilize some restructures and void years to get in the black for the offseason. They don't have many options to outright cut when Akins is a top option and would only clear $2 million in space. Amari Cooper would clear up $12.4 million, but he's too valuable to cut loose and will likely be extended or restructured.

Akins has a history with Deshaun Watson going back to Houston, but David Njoku is easily the team's best tight end and Akins had just 15 catches for 132 yards.

Dallas Cowboys

Projected Cap Space: -11.2 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. WR Michael Gallup - $13.9 Million

Wide receiver Michael Gallup has struggled to meet expectations since the Dallas Cowboys signed him to a five-year, $57.5 million extension in 2022. While he's still capable of making the occasional big play, Gallup clearly ceded the No. 2 receiver role to Brandin Cooks this season.

Cooks finished the regular season with just 34 catches for 418 yards and two touchdowns.

Jerry Jones rarely admits to poor investments, but it's time to either restructure Gallup's deal or pull the plug entirely. Releasing him with a post-June 1 designation would save $9.5 million in cap space while triggering a dead-cap hit of only $4.4 million.

2. LB Leighton Vander Esch - $4.4 Million

Set to carry a cap hit of $4.4 million in 2024, linebacker Leighton Vander Esch may finally have reached the end of his Dallas tenure. He re-signed with the Cowboys last March on a two-year deal, but he was once again bitten by the injury bug.

Vander Esch landed on injured reserve with a neck injury after only appearing in five games. Though he's still relatively young, Vander Esch simply isn't the same productive and dependable player at 27 that he was as a rookie Pro Bowler in 2018.

Releasing Vander Esch outright at or before the start of free agency would trigger a dead-cap hit of $2.3 million while clearing $2.5 million from the 2023 books.

3. QB Cooper Rush - $2.9 Million

There are reasons for Dallas to keep quarterback Cooper Rush in the fold for another year. He's experienced in the Cowboys offense, he's been a dependable spot starter in the past, and he's set to carry a reasonable cap hit of only $2.9 million.

However, last offseason's trade for San Francisco 49ers signal-caller and former first-round pick Trey Lance makes Rush somewhat expendable. If Dallas doesn't believe it can develop Lance into a capable long-term backup, then dealing a fourth-round pick to secure him was a waste.

Dumping Rush would only save $2.3 million in cap space, but it's an easy cut to justify, and the Cowboys need all the cap space they can muster. Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb are both entering the final year of their current deals and are very likely to receive extensions in 2024.

Denver Broncos

Projected Cap Space: -$18.9 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. S Justin Simmons - $18.3 Million

Justin Simmons is a three-time second-team All-Pro selection so it isn't as though he's bad. However, the Broncos can't really afford to pay a safety $18.3 million in 2024 considering their cap situation and how much dead money will be paid out for Russell Wilson if the team releases him as expected. If the Broncos opt to outright release Simmons they will save $14.5 million in 2024 with a dead cap charge of just $3.8 million.

Simmons is now 30 years old, but he was a Pro Bowler this season. If both sides have an interest in continuing their partnership, it's more likely that Simmons is restructured or agrees to an extension that pushes some money into 2025.

2. WR Tim Patrick - $15.6 Million

Tim Patrick's situation is a little more clear-cut. The 30-year-old receiver hasn't played since 2021 due to injuries and wasn't brought in by head coach Sean Payton or general manager George Paton. He had a pair of seasons with over 700 receiving yards, but the odds that he lives up to his current cap hit in 2024 are minimal.

Instead, the Broncos could free up $9.5 million in cap space with a dead cap charge of $6.1 million. With Jerry Jeudy, Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims on the roster, Patrick is a luxury this team doesn't need.

3. DT D.J. Jones - $13 Million

When facing a tough salary-cap situation, it's good to look to tighten up at players who can be replaced by cheaper means. A run-stuffing defensive tackle like D.J. Jones with a $13 million cap hit qualifies. Jones' play has declined over the last two seasons. In 2021, he had a PFF grade of 73.2 and was one of the better run defenders in the league. This year that grade plummeted to 56.2.

The Broncos would save around $10 million on the cap by releasing Jones. A comparable player could be had much cheaper on the open market or replaced through the draft at a fraction of the price.

Detroit Lions

Projected Cap Space: $61.1 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. S Tracy Walker III - $12.8 Million

The Detroit Lions are facing a solid cap situation and have exactly one clear-cut candidate who would alter the picture dramatically.

Safety Tracy Walker III has been a defensive mainstay since 2018. The Lions rewarded him with a three-year, $25 million extension in 2022, but saw him take a diminished role this past season.

Walker appeared in 17 games but made only six starts. He also struggled in coverage, allowing an opposing passer rating of 117.9. While the soon-to-be 29-year-old is a respected leader in Detroit's locker room, he's the logical option if the Lions are looking to clear salary.

Releasing Walker with a post-June 1 designation would save $8 million in cap space.

2. TE James Mitchell - $1 Million

If the Lions are simply looking to trim excess salary, tight end James Mitchell could become a cut candidate.

The 2022 fifth-round pick has appeared in 29 games over the past two seasons but has had a limited impact on the offense. He caught 11 passes for 113 yards and a touchdown as a rookie but became a virtual afterthought with the rise of Sam LaPorta this year. Mitchell played just 15 percent of the offensive snaps in 2023.

Releasing Michell would save $$924,362 against the 2024 cap.

3. DT Levi Onwuzurike - $2.6 Million

Defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike is similar to Mitchell in that he'll likely only be considered for release if Detroit finds a dire need for salary space. The 2021 second-round pick has flashed potential but has never emerged as a regular contributor.

Onwuzurike appeared in 16 games as a rookie but missed the entire 2022 season with a back injury. He played 10 games this past season but has never made a start for the Lions. This year, he recorded just five tackles while playing 21 percent of the defensive snaps.

Detroit will most likely allow Onwuzurike to play out his rookie contract and hope he can stay on the field. If, however, the Lions are desperate for cap room, they can save $1.8 million by moving on this offseason.

Green Bay Packers

Projected Cap Space: $8.5 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. OT David Bakhtiari - $40 Million

The Green Bay Packers made the postseason with the NFL's youngest roster this year. There's plenty upon which the team can build in 2024, but it may need to part with some pricey veterans to continue the youth movement.

The most obvious cut candidate is longtime offensive tackle David Bakhtiari. Knee issues—and a series of surgeries—have limited the 32-year-old to only 13 games over the past three seasons.

The reality is that Green Bay simply cannot count on Bakhtiari being a part of its future. He's entering the final year of his contract, and releasing him would save a whopping $21 million in cap space.

2. DL Kenny Clark - $27.5 Million

Defensive lineman Kenny Clark was far more dependable in 2023. The 28-year-old started all 17 games and finished with 44 tackles and 7.5 sacks.

However, the Packers have invested in their defensive front recently, using first-round picks on defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt and edge-rusher Likas Van Ness in the past two drafts.

Clark is also entering the final year of his contract and is set to carry a substantial cap hit. Green Bay may prefer to keep him with another restructured deal, but releasing him with a post-June 1 designation would save $17 million in cap space.

Using the post-June 1 avenue would trigger dead-cap hits of $10.5 million and $13.8 million in 2024 and 2025, respectively. However, because of Clark's 2023 restructure, he's already set to carry a $13.8 million cap hit next season anyway.

3. LB De'Vondre Campbell - $14.3 Million

To be fair, releasing De'Vondre Campbell would be more logical next offseason because the dead money on his contract will drop from $11.6 Million to $8 million. However, releasing him with a post-June 1 designation this offseason would still clear $10.6 million in 2024 salary.

It's also worth noting that Campbell was limited to 11 games this past season with ankle and neck injuries and took to social media in December to declare that he'll no longer play through injuries.

Campbell is coming off his worst statistical season since joining Green Bay in 2021. He has three years remaining on his contract, but the Packers could very well determine that it's time for a more dependable and possibly cheaper replacement.

Houston Texans

Projected Cap Space: $74.8 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. WR Robert Woods - $9.7 Million

The fact that Robert Woods leads off this list is a good indicator that the Texans are in a great position financially. They only have one player set to cost more than $20 million next season (Laremy Tunsil) and only three others who make more than $10 million. That's the benefit of hitting on so many draft picks recently.

However, if they're looking to create more cap space, Woods has to be a consideration. The veteran will be 32 years old next season and he was fourth on the team in receiving yards (426) and only scored one touchdown. With Nico Collins and Tank Dell on the roster, they might want to use the $4.9 million in cap space they can save by cutting Woods to get a third receiver who can contribute more.

2. S Jimmie Ward - $7.8 Million

Jimmie Ward is another veteran occupying a spot that could probably be upgraded with all the money they will have to spend. Ward was a smart signing to bring in during DeMeco Ryans' first season. His experience with the head coach in San Francisco gave him a veteran he could rely on to help install his scheme and culture. His ability to line up in the slot came in handy too.

However, he'll be 33 years old next season and only played in 10 games this season due to various injuries. He ended the season on injured reserve due to a quad injury. They can save $3.8 million if they decide to move on.

3. QB Davis Mills - $1.7 Million

Mills won't be a cap casualty in the traditional sense. The Texans just don't have many candidates for that. However, the team could decide that it's time to let Mills go find a different opportunity. Trading him would be a better option if they can find a taker, but the franchise pretty much said what they thought of him when they went with Case Keenum to start the two games that C.J. Stroud missed with a concussion in Week 14 and 15. The move would save them $1.4 million.

Indianapolis Colts

Projected Cap Space: $72.8 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. TE Mo Alie-Cox - $5.9 Million

It's easy to see why the Colts are set up with a ton of cap space in 2024. They just don't have many contracts they'd like to cut at the top of their payroll. Mo Alie-Cox carries the largest cap hit that they should consider walking away from. None of his cap hit is guaranteed so it would clear up the entire $5.9 million hit.

The former VCU basketball player has never really blossomed into the receiving weapon the Colts may have hoped. He was the clear second tight end behind Kylen Granson and he had just 13 catches for 161 yards. He's a decent blocker, but it's hard to justify the salary next season.

2. WR Ashton Dulin - $4 Million

Ashton Dulin has done well for himself as an undrafted free agent in 2019. He has stuck on the roster for five years now, but missed the entire 2023 campaign with a torn ACL. Unfortunately, that could be the end of the line based on his $4 million cap hit. Dulin has been a promising prospect because of his speed and frame, but he hasn't produced much and they would create $3 million in cap space by releasing him.

3. CB Chris Lammons - $1.1 Million

Chris Lammons was suspended for the first three games of the season for violating the league's personal conduct policy. Once he was reinstated, he spent most of the season on the Colts practice squad before getting elevated late in the season when injuries called for it.

Lammons ended up making just four appearances this season after spending the first four years of his career in Kansas City. None of his contract is guaranteed for next season so the Colts could bump their cap space number up by $1.1 million if they cut him.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Projected Cap Space: $29 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. OT Cam Robinson - $21.1 Million

The Jaguars have an interesting decision to make on left tackle Cam Robinson. On one hand, the optics of trading away or releasing a good-not-great blindside protector with a young quarterback are not great. On the other, they would stand to clear up $16.1 million in cap space. Robinson was suspended the first four games of the season for violating the league's performance-enhancing drugs policy which voided some of the guarantees in his contract.

The Jaguars have a reasonable contingency plan. Walker Little started those four games and acquitted himself nicely. He was eventually kicked inside to guard, which is not an ideal fit for him at 6'7", 325 pounds. In total, he played 659 snaps and gave up just two sacks, per PFF. It's a lot of money to pass up just to stick with Robinson, but this is more of a trade situation because of the demand for decent left tackles.

2. DT Foley Fatukasi - $12.8 Million

The Jaguars have some real questions to answer after collapsing down the stretch. Fixing the run defense has to be one of them. They were a bottom 10 run defense by EPA allowed per rush. That's a stat that shouldn't happen when paying a nose tackle like they are paying Fatukasi to clog up run lanes. To maximize the cap savings, the Jags would have to designate Fatukasi as a post-June 1 cut which would clear $8 million against the cap this season.

Fatukasi was only on the field for 40 percent of the snaps. The money would be better spent on more depth at the position than paying a premium for Fatukasi.

3. WR Zay Jones - $11 Million

Zay Jones was a better investment than media types ever thought he would be when the Jaguars inked him to a three-year, $24 million contract in 2022. He was a big part of last year's offense that gave this franchise hope that Trevor Lawrence would live up to his potential and lead the team to better days.

Unfortunately, this year, a knee injury hampered his productivity. He was inactive in three different stretches of the season and only appeared in nine games. He was much less efficient than last season, catching just 34 of his 64 targets for 321 yards and two touchdowns.

Calvin Ridley is a free agent. The Jags already extended Evan Engram and Christian Kirk is still on the payroll. Cutting Jones pre-June 1 would save $4.4 million, but making it one of their post-June 1 cuts would trim $8 million.

Kansas City Chiefs

Projected Cap Space: $30.4 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. S Justin Reid - $14.2 Million

The $30.4 million in cap space might seem like a lot, but considering the franchise tag for Chris Jones would cost $32.4 million by itself that money could evaporate pretty quickly. If the Chiefs want to go out and sign a receiver who can help, they'll also need more space.

Cutting Justin Reid is one of the quickest ways to clear a significant amount. If they cut him they will only be responsible for $3.5 million of his hit, giving them $10.7 million in cap space. Reid has given up seven touchdowns and 771 yards with just one interception over the last two seasons. It's fair to wonder if he's worth the money at this point.

2. WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling - $14 Million

Marquez Valdes-Scantling did very little to justify his cap number this season. As one of the few veteran receivers they had on the roster, the Chiefs really needed him to rise to the occasion. He didn't. He had just one game on the season with more than two catches and he finished with 21 receptions for 315 yards and a touchdown.

Finding a veteran receiver who can provide consistent production should be a priority and the Chiefs can use the money generated from cutting MVS to pay for it. Only $2 million of his hit is guaranteed so there's $12 million in cap space to be created.

3. WR Justin Watson - $2.1 Million

Watson's inclusion on this list speaks to how the Chiefs have built this roster. They are investing big money in their stars while saving money by playing a bunch of players on rookie contracts right now. Outside of Reid and Valdes-Scantling, they just don't have a lot of players who are even set to cost a lot of money next season.

So if they are looking to trim down further with cuts then Watson will be on the radar. He turns 28 in the spring and the team would save $1.9 million.

Las Vegas Raiders

Projected Cap Space: $55.1 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. WR Hunter Renfrow - $15.7 Million

Hunter Renfrow was not a fit with Josh McDaniels and the move to interim coach Antonio Pierce didn't help matters. Renfrow appeared in all 17 games this season but still only finished with 25 receptions for 255 yards and no touchdowns. He had minimal involvement in the offense and is certainly not the player he was when he signed a two-year, $23.9 million extension in 2022.

The Raiders could try to find a trade partner. They reportedly got "very close" to trading Renfrow to the New Orleans Saints ahead of the trade deadline, but it's more likely that they will have to just cut him and take the $8.1 million in cap savings.

2. S Marcus Epps - $7.3 Million

The Raiders really don't have many onerous contracts to move on from. It's one thing you can say about former general manager Dave Ziegler's job before he was fired. Signing Marcus Epps to a two-year, $12 million contract wasn't disastrous, but it's fair to wonder if a new regime will want to get a little more impact with their free agent dollars.

Epps was solid in coverage but made few splash plays. He had no interceptions and only three pass deflections. He's one of the few cuts that would save a significant amount of cap space. They would clear $3.4 million.

3. DT Jerry Tillery - $4.2 Million

The Raiders claimed Jerry Tillery off of waivers in 2022 after the Chargers let him go. Then they signed him to a two-year contract, hoping that he would build off his eight-game stint the previous season.

In 2023 he started six games, notching two sacks and six quarterback hits. He played 45 percent of the defensive snaps. His cap hit isn't exorbitant, but he would be their highest-paid defensive tackle. They would save $3.8 million if they move on.

Los Angeles Chargers

Projected Cap Space: -$34.5 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. EDGE Khalil Mack - $38.5 Million

The Chargers put a lot into winning over the last few seasons and must now navigate a really tight cap situation in which several stars might be on the chopping block. The optimal situation would be finding a trade partner, but the league is going to know they have minimal leverage.

Khalil Mack is set to carry the highest cap hit so that's where it starts. Cutting him pre-June 1 would save $23.3 million and make a huge dent in their cap deficit. Mack is coming off a 17-sack season, though, so you would think there is some trade market out there for him.

Joey Bosa could also be an option. His cap saving would be $14.4 million or $22 million as a post-June 1 cut.

2. WR Mike Williams - $32.5 Million

Mike Williams is the fourth player on the Chargers that is set to cost more than $30 million. Mack, Joey Bosa and Keenan Allen are the others. There are considerable cap savings if they release any of them, but they are also the star players on the team. Of the four, it feels like Williams would be the most likely cut. He would clear $20 million in cap space with a dead cap charge of $12.5 million.

However, he's coming off a season in which he only played three games and he hasn't had a 1,000-yard season since 2021. Allen has a much longer track record of success with the team and more chemistry with Justin Herbert. that should have Williams' future with the team in question.

3. C Corey Linsley - $14.1 Million

When you're in as bad a cap situation as the Chargers are and you still aren't a playoff team then having the second-highest-paid center in the league seems like a bit of a frivolous luxury. Corey Linsley is 32 years old and only played in three games with a heart issue after playing in 14 last season. Based on his age and availability this season it's hard to see the Chargers bringing him back in 2024 when they could save $8.9 million by releasing him.

Los Angeles Rams

Projected Cap Space: $48.2 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. C Brian Allen - $7.3 Million

The Los Angeles Rams signed center Brian Allen to a three-year, $18 million extension in 2022, but he could be on his way out if L.A. is looking to generate additional cap space.

Allen lost his starting job to Coleman Shelton, and he ended up only appearing in five games with no starts. While having experienced offensive line depth is valuable, Allen's contract makes him a prime cut candidate.

Releasing Allen at the start of free agency would clear $4.1 million from the 2024 books.

2. TE Hunter Long - $1.3 Million

Tight end Hunter Long is another fairly obvious cap candidate. He was acquired from the Miami Dolphins in the Jalen Ramsey trade, landed on injured reserve in September with a thigh injury and wasn't activated until mid-November.

In his limited opportunities, Long failed to make an impact. He appeared in four games, played 55 offensive snaps and finished without a reception. The 2021 third-round pick wasn't a difference-maker with the Dolphins either, recording just one reception in two seasons with the club.

Los Angeles took a flier on Long, and it doesn't appear to be paying off. Dumping the final year of his contract would save $1.3 million in cap space.

3. OT Joe Noteboom - $20 Million

The future of offensive tackle Joe Noteboom is a bit complicated. He signed a three-year, $40 million contract in 2022, suffered a torn ACL later that year and lost the starting job to Alaric Jackson this past season.

Jackson played well, allowing just one sack on the season, according to Pro Football Focus. However, he's also set to be a free agent in a couple of months.

Los Angeles may wait to see how things unfold with Jackson before making a decision on Noteboom, but if a Jackson deal gets done, Noteboom could be out. He's battled injuries aside from the ACl over the years, and he's set to carry a heft cap hit in 2024. Releasing him with a post-June 1 designation would save $15 million in cap space.

Miami Dolphins

Projected Cap Space: -$42.9 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. CB Xavien Howard - $25.9 Million

The Dolphins are up against the cap and have six players set to make more than $20 million next season. Things aren't going to get any easier from a cap management perspective with a potential Tua Tagovailoa extension on the way. The Dolphins are going to have to look at a few of their high-dollar players and decide whether they are still deserving of the big money they are making.

Xavien Howard just turned 30 and isn't the ball-hawking playmaker he was when he signed his deal. He has just two interceptions over the last two seasons and has dealt with injuries in both campaigns. The Dolphins would have to eat two big dead cap hits ($11.4 million in 2024 and $15.7 million in 2025), but it would create $14.5 million in cap space this offseason.

2. OT Terron Armstead - $20.8 Million

Cutting Terron Armstead and designating it as a post-June 1 cut would clear $9.4 million while carrying an $11.4 million dead cap charge in 2024 and $12.7 million in 2025.

It's a costly move to clear up less than it would cost, but Armstead has struggled to stay healthy throughout his career. That has carried over to his time in South Beach. He's played in 23 of a possible 34 regular season games. He's still a top-tier tackle when he's on the field, but the Dolphins have to ask if his health is really going to get better in his age-33 season next year.

3. EDGE Emmanuel Ogbah - $17.7 Million

Unfortunately for the Dolphins, cutting Emmanuel Ogbah is the move that could save them the most cap space without a big dead cap bill. They would only have to carry a $4 million dead cap charge so he would clear $13.7 million in space. When Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips are healthy, it's pretty clear that Ogbah is the third-best rusher on the team and that's a lot of money to pay someone who isn't one of your primary quarterback hunters.

The 30-year-old has been a serviceable rusher for the team over the last four seasons, but the money makes too much sense given his role.

Minnesota Vikings

Projected Cap Space: $39.7 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. DE Dean Lowry - $4.5 Million

The Minnesota Vikings signed former Green Bay Packers defensive lineman as part of their 2023 defensive makeover. However, the 29-year-old failed to make a significant impact in his first season with the Vikings.

After recording only 14 tackles in nine games before landing on injured reserve (pectoral), Lowry may not get a Year 2.

Lowry has no dead money remaining on his contract, and releasing him would immediately save $5 million in cap space.

2. QB Nick Mullens - $2.2 Million

Minnesota doesn't yet know what the future holds for quarterback Kirk Cousins, who is scheduled to hit the market in March. However, it's hard to envision Minnesota putting a lot of trust into backup Nick Mullens going into next season.

Mullens appeared in five games this past season and did some good things, but he also threw eight interceptions and went 0-3 as the starter. With rookie Jaren Hall in the fold, Mullens could easily be viewed as expendable.

Releasing the 28-year-old journeyman would save $1.8 million in cap space.

3. S Harrison Smith - $19.2 Million

Safety Harrison Smith has been a fixture of the Vikings defense since 2012. He was still a quality 17-game starter in 2023, but Smith will turn 35 in February and has admitted that he has thought about retirement.

"It's hard to have the ability to play and not have a desire to play. Whatever that gives you, I'm not trying to be ominous or anything. Right now, my shoulder hurts," Smith said before Minnesota's season finale, per Andrew Krammer of the Star Tribune.

Even if Smith decides to keep playing, the Vikings may look to get younger and cheaper at the position. If Smith wants to keep playing for Minnesota, a contract restructuring may be necessary.

Releasing Smith outright would save $11.4 million off the salary cap, while releasing him with a post-June 1 designation would save $15.3 million.

New England Patriots

Projected Cap Space: $75.2 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. CB J.C. Jackson - $14.4 Million

The flexibility in J.C. Jackson's contract was probably a big reason the Patriots were willing to roll the dice on adding him in the middle of the season. Unfortunately, the 28-year-old wasn't able to recapture the magic in his return to the team.

He struggled with a knee injury early in the season and then was placed on the non-football injury list, having been suffering from "mental health issues," per his agent.

The Patriots will be able to cut Jackson and not incur a dead cap charge, so all $14.4 million of his cap hit would be cleared, giving the Pats even more space.

2. DT Davon Godchaux - $11.7 Million

Gochaux's inclusion here is more about the fact that the Patriots don't have a ton of obvious cap casualties. They have lots of cap space, and there aren't a lot of in-house free agents who will command big money. Still, it's good practice to evaluate where money could be spent more wisely.

Godchaux signed a contract extension in 2022 when the Patriots were still looking like they could contend if Mac Jones took the next step. Now he's set to get paid pretty well for a nose tackle who ranked 101st out of 131 interior defenders graded by PFF this season. The Patriots could stand to create $8.2 million in cap space by releasing Godchaux.

3. RB JaMycal Hasty - $1.4 Million

The Patriots claimed JaMycal Hasty off waivers in November after the running back played in just three games with the Jaguars. Despite an injury to Rhamondre Stevenson, he only ended up playing in two games with New England. There isn't much cap savings to be had by releasing Hasty, but he wouldn't carry a dead cap charge if they cut him. It would also clear the roster spot for a back with more upside than Hasty, who will turn 28 early next season.

New Orleans Saints

Projected Cap Space: -75.5 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. LB Demario Davis - $18.2 Million

The New Orleans Saints' habit of kicking contracts down the road has left them facing the league's worst cap situation. Unfortunately, parting with very good players may be the only way to remedy the situation. Most of them will have to be considered with a post-June 1 designation.

Starting linebacker Demario Davis will likely be among those considered. A Pro Bowler in 2022 and a 17-game starter this past season, Davis is still a terrific defender. However, he just turned 35 and is entering the final year of his contract.

Releasing Davis with a post-June 1 designation would save $12 million in cap space.

2. TE/QB Taysom Hill - $16.9 Million

Tight end/quarterback/ball-carrier Taysom Hill remains one of the most fun players to watch in the entire NFL. He's done it all for the Saints over seven years, but it may be time for New Orleans to move on from their Swiss Army Knife.

Hill hasn't spent as much time at quarterback in the post-Sean Payton era (11 passes in 2023), and while he's still a capable runner/receiver, his contract isn't quite in line with his current role.

While Hill recorded 692 scrimmage yards and six touchdowns (plus a passing score) this past season, that's not enough to justify his massive cap hit. Releasing Hill with a post-June 1 designation would trigger dead-cap hits of $5.8 million and $11.1 million in 2024 and 2025, respectively. However, it would also clear $10 million in 2023 salary.

3. LB Monty Rice - $1.3 Million

Linebacker Monty Rice is an outlier for New Orleans because his release would be fairly straightforward.

Claimed off waivers from the Tennessee Titans in December, Rice never appeared in a game for the Saints. Presumably, New Orleans would like to see what the 2021 third-round pick could provide in terms of future value, and it may not want to dump the 25-year-old after only a couple of months.

However, Rice has no dead money remaining on his contract, and releasing him would clear $1.3 million in salary.

New York Giants

Projected Cap Space: $37.9 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. G Mark Glowinski - $7.1 Million

The New York Giants aren't facing a dire cap situation, but if they're looking to create space, they have options. The most obvious is guard Mark Glowinski, who hasn't lived up to the three-year, $18.3 million deal he signed in 2022.

Glowinski was effectively benched early in the season, though he did return to the starting lineup before returning to a reserve role. He appeared in 13 games in 2023 but only made six starts.

Releasing Glowinski should be an easy decision, as he'll turn 32 in May and simply hasn't been a dependable starter for the Giants. Doing so would generate a dead-cap hit of $1.5 million but would save $5.6 million in cap space.

2. WR Darius Slayton - $8 Million

It's a bit harder to envision the Giants parting with longtime receiver Darius Slayton. He signed a new two-year, $12 million deal in the offseason and went on to lead the Giants with 770 receiving yards.

If New York is looking to get younger at the position, however, parting with Slayton will be a viable option. He just turned 27, but he's never dramatically improved upon his 740-yard, eight-touchdown rookie season of 2019.

Releasing Slayton would save $6.2 million in 2024 cap space. If the Giants do hang onto him for another season, a contract restructuring should be expected.

3. TE Darren Waller - $14 Million

It's also hard to imagine the Giants giving up on tight end Darren Waller one year after trading a 2023 third-round pick to obtain him. However, ongoing hamstring issues have impacted his production over the last three years in Las Vegas and New York.

Waller played 12 games in 2023, finishing with 52 catches, 552 yards and a touchdown. That's decent production for the position, but it doesn't justify the 31-year-old's price point, and health remains a major concern.

Releasing Waller with a post-June 1 designation would save $12.1 million in cap space while triggering a 2024 dead-cap hit of only $2 million.

New York Jets

Projected Cap Space: $17.2 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. LB C.J. Mosley - $21.5 Million

It's hard for any off-ball linebacker to live up to a $21.5 Million cap hit in the league today. There's a reason that the big money usually gets directed to edge rushers and cornerbacks. It's harder to get that kind of value when it's much easier to find replacement-level linebackers in the draft and free agency.

Mosley has been good, but the Jets would create roughly $11 million in cap space by releasing getting rid of Mosley. If they designate him as a post-June 1 cut, that number climbs to $17 million. That would nearly double their available cash. Mosley is much more likely to get restructured, but that pushes money into the future, when the Jets would be paying more in void years when the 32-year-old could be retired.

2. OG Laken Tomlinson - $18.9 Million

The Jets are hardly in a position to cut serviceable linemen after last season, but it's still going to have to be a consideration. The Jets don't have a ton of cap room and Tomlinson has not really played up to his contract to this point. On the bright side, he played in all 17 games, but he also gave up seven sacks and earned a 55.0 grade from PFF in those contests.

He's more than likely a candidate to be restructured, but cutting him would create some breathing room under the cap. A pre-June 1 cut would create $8.1 million with a $10.7 million dead cap charge, but a post-June 1 cut would generate $13 million in space and spread out the dead cap charges over 2024 and 2025.

3. TE C.J. Uzomah - $11.2 Million

C.J. Uzomah is the most likely of these three to be cut outright. There's merit in bringing back both Tomlinson and Mosley, they played important roles and are good restructure candidates.

The same can't be said for Uzomah, who has been passed by. He finished the season on injured reserve with an MCL injury, but he had ceded his role to Jeremy Ruckert before getting injured. He only played 11 snaps in his final three games of the season. The Jets brought up Kenny Yeboah from the practice squad to finish the season as the third tight end, and he was fine.

Cutting Uzomah chips away another $5.3 million in space.

Philadelphia Eagles

Projected Cap Space: $28.6 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. S Kevin Byard - $14.2 Million

The Philadelphia Eagles are in a tough spot because of the way many of their biggest contracts are structured. Most of them include a large amount of dead money, making easy cuts hard to find. For example, cornerback James Bradberry, who underwhelmed this season, would trigger a $17.2 million dead-cap hit if released.

The one easy contract to pinpoint is that of safety Kevin Byard, who was acquired from the Tennessee Titans in October for fifth- and sixth-round draft picks and safety Terrell Edmunds.

Byard is still a starting-caliber safety, but he didn't dramatically improve Philly's secondary—he allowed an opposing passer rating of 103.3 in coverage. Releasing him would save $13.5 million in cap space.

2. OL Fred Johnson - $1.2 Million

Offensive lineman Fred Johnson could also represent an easy cut for general manager Howie Roseman. Signed to a reserve/futures contract last February, Johnson was active for all 17 games in 2023 but barely saw the field.

Johnson played a mere 35 offensive snaps and 78 special teams snaps.

While there's value in keeping cheap offensive line depth, there's more value in creating the cap space needed to add a more impactful player. Releasing Johnson would save $1.1 million off the cap while having a very minor impact on the roster's makeup.

3. CB Avonte Maddox - $9.7 Million

Cornerback Avonte Maddox missed the bulk of the season with a pectoral injury that he suffered in Week 2. He returned to the lineup in December and appeared in four games with two starts, but his performance left something to be desired.

Maddox was a dependable defender in 2022 but allowed an opposing passer rating of 113.4 in coverage this past season. In his four appearances, he surrendered 15 catches for 202 yards.

While releasing Maddox with a post-June 1 designation would trigger a dead-cap hit of $2.6 million in 2024, it would also save $7.1 million in salary. After spending time on injured reserve in each of the past two seasons, Maddox is a prime candidate for release or restructuring.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Projected Cap Space: -$6.7 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. DT Larry Ogunjobi - $13.3 Million

Larry Ogunjobi wasn't bad for the Steelers this season, but for a team that will start the offseason in the red, it's fair to wonder if he's worth a $13.3 million cap hit. He ranked 71st among the defensive interior players that PFF graded but his cap hit will rank 15th among the players that Spotrac designates as defense ends, right behind Nick Bosa ($14.7 million).

This might be a spot where the Steelers rely on their drafting and developmental abilities. They could rely on DeMarvin Leal and a potential draft pick to step up and replace Ogunjobi's contributions for a lot less money. They would clear $6.2 million by releasing him with a $7.1 million dead cap charge.

2. WR Allen Robinson II - $11.9 Million

Taking a shot on Allen Robinson II made a lot of sense, especially because how cheap it will be for the Steelers to part ways with him after a season. The Steelers can cut him and only face a $1.9 million dead charge, clearing up $10 million. It's a no-brainer at this point.

The Steelers didn't have the best quarterback situation but Robinson still didn't do much. He only caught 34 passes for 280 yards and no touchdowns despite playing in all 17 games. Robinson is now 30 and hasn't cracked 410 yards over the last three seasons. In addition to the money, the Steelers need the roster spot to bring in someone with a higher ceiling at this point.

3. CB Patrick Peterson - $9.8 Million

Peterson falls into the same category as Robinson. He was well worth the risk, but it might be time to move on. Peterson started 16 of 17 games and even shifted over to safety when injuries forced the move. The unfortunate reality is that it's going to be hard for Peterson to live up to his contract at 34 years old next season.

The Steelers could save $6.9 million by moving on from him. With Joey Porter Jr. ready to hold down at least one cornerback spot and Peterson showing some signs of aging, they can likely find a similar option without investing as much money.

San Francisco 49ers

Projected Cap Space: $1.4 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. OT Colton McKivitz - $2.5 Million

The San Francisco 49ers face a tricky cap situation. Presumably, centerpiece players like Gaorge Kittle and Christian McCaffrey will be going nowhere, but the 49ers do need to generate some space—an early Brandon Aiyuk extension could help.

Releasing right tackle Colton McKivitz could become an easy call for San Francisco. The 49ers tried using him to replace Mike McGlinchey at right tackle but got underwhelming results.

McKivitz was credited with two penalties and nine sacks allowed by Pro Football Focus. Releasing him would save $1.9 million off the cap and give San Francisco the opportunity to find an upgrade.

2. CB Isaiah Oliver - $3.9 Million

Last offseason, the 49ers signed cornerback Isaiah Oliver to a two-year, $6.8 million contract. While Oliver did contribute in 2023—he appeared in all 17 games with six starts—and cornerback depth is valuable, San Francisco could look for better or cheaper options.

Oliver allowed an opposing passer rating of 101.0 in coverage in 2023. He also allowed a completion rate of 84 percent, and for a team with obvious Super Bowl aspirations, that shouldn't be acceptable.

Releasing Oliver would trigger a $1.5 million dead cap hit but would also save $2.4 million in space.

3. WR Danny Gray - $1.4 Million

While the 49ers might not be eager to part with 2022 third-round pick Danny Gray after just two years, it's a move they may have to consider. Gray had just one reception as a rookie, and while he landed on injured reserve to start the 2023 season (SC joint sprain), he wasn't activated, despite being deemed healthy by head coach Kyle Shanahan.

Given San Francisco's need for a dependable third receiver, Gray's status is telling.

If the 49ers don't believe that Gray can be a contributor, releasing him would be entirely logical. Doing so would save $1 million in cap space.

Seattle Seahawks

Projected Cap Space: $4.3 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. TE Will Dissly - $10.1 Million

Like the 49ers, the Seattle Seahawks are facing a tricky cap situation. Releasing longtime tight end Will Dissly could help the situation substantially, though.

Dissley is set to carry a cap hit of $10.1 million. He did nothing to justify that price point in 2023, catching just 17 passes for 172 yards and one touchdown in 16 appearances. With Noah Fant headed to free agency, the Seahawks don't have a ton of depth at the position, but Dissly should be considered expendable at his current salary.

Releasing Dissly would save $7 million off the 2023 cap.

2. S Quandre Diggs - $21.3 Million

Safety Quandre Diggs is a less likely cut candidate, as he started all 17 games this past season. However, his cap hit is massive, and his play dipped quite a bit during the season.

Diggs allowed an opposing passer rating of 103.9 in coverage, his worst mark of the past six seasons. He's also entering the final year of his contract and will turn 31 later this month.

Releasing Diggs would generate a dead-cap hit of $10.3 million, but it would also save $11 million in cap space.

3. QB Geno Smith - $31.2 Million

Quarterback Geno Smith is the least likely of this group to be released, but it could happen. Seattle signed him to a three-year, $75 million deal after the 2022 season. Building around the 33-year-old didn't put Seattle back in the postseason, and Smith's play declined in every important metric.

After posting a 100.9 passer rating in 2022, he posted a 92.1 rating this past season.

While still a capable starter, Smith may not be as valued by the next Seahawks head coach. General manager John Schneider also built some team security into Smith's contract, which could be utilized this offseason.

If Seattle does part with Smith, they can do so with a post-June 1 designation and save $22.5 million in cap space. That would generate reasonable dead-cap hits of $8.7 million in both 2024 and 2025. The big question is whether the new regime believes it can find an obvious upgrade this offseason.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Projected Cap Space: $48.7 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. WR Russell Gage - $13.4 Million

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are in a decent position with the salary cap, but they also have multiple situations to address. Mike Evans, Baker Mayfield, Lavonte David and Devin White are just a few of the key contributors slated to hit the open market.

If the Bucs need to generate more cap space, wide receiver Russell Gage will be a logical cut candidate. Gage was a solid third receiver in 2022, but he missed the entire 2023 season with a torn patellar tendon.

While Tampa may want to see what Gage can accomplish with Mayfield under center, his price point makes things difficult. Releasing the soon-to-be 28-year-old would save $11.2 million in cap space.

2. LB Anthony Nelson -

Tampa could create further cap space by parting with linebacker Anthony Nelson. An eight-game starter in 2022, Nelson was re-signed on a two-year, $10 million deal in the offseason. However, he was primarily a part-time player in 2023.

Nelson tallied 40 tackles and three sacks, but he also played just 39 percent of the defensive snaps this past season.

While the Buccaneers would probably prefer to keep Nelson, the 26-year-old could become a cut candidate if the team becomes desperate for cap room. Releasing him with a post-June 1 designation would save $4.5 million in cap space.

3. Edge Shaquil Barrett - $14.2 Million

Pass-rusher Shaqil Barrett is another defender Tampa may only consider cutting if cap space becomes a major issue. His contract makes things tricky because it still includes $26.7 million in dead money.

Yet, the fact remains that Barrett is 31 years old, produced just 4.5 sacks with 19 quarterback pressures in 2023 and is entering the final year of his contract.

With four phantom years left on his deal, a restructuring may not be feasible. Releasing Barrett with a post-June 1 designation would trigger dead-cap hits of $9.3 million and $17.4 million in 2024 and 2025, respectively.

However, it would save $5 million in 2024 cap space—and Barrett is already slated to carry a $12.3 million cap hit in 2024, when he'll also be a free agent.

Tennessee Titans

Projected Cap Space: $77.6 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. OT Andre Dillard - $10.6 Million

Right now, Andre Dillard is set to be the fourth-highest-paid player on the Titans roster. That's a hard pill to swallow for a left tackle that was tied for the most sacks allowed this season despite only playing 562 snaps, per PFF. If the Titans are going to build around Will Levis, then finding better production is a mandatory goal in the offseason. It's pretty clear that Dillard is not part of that solution after his disastrous 2023 season.

The Titans might have to eat some dead cap, but a post-June 1 cut would create $6.4 million in 2024 cap space. A trade would create $9.4 million but that could be difficult to find a suitor given his struggles.

2. LB Luke Gifford - $2.2 Million

The Titans are one of the top teams in the league when it comes to cap space and there aren't many feasible cap casualties on the roster. Luke Gifford could be a target to clear up a little bit more space. He's never been more than a special teamer for the Titans and they can clear $1.9 million by releasing him. Gifford played in 11 games this season before a hamstring injury ended his season. Still, he played just eight snaps on defense.

3. QB Malik Willis - $1.4 Million

The Titans confirmed what their draft choices already said. They prefer Will Levis over Malik Willis. The former third-round pick only saw 22 snaps all season and attempted just five passes. The Titans could keep him around as a cheap backup option to Levis, but picking up a veteran might be a more advisable move and they have the money to make it happen.

Willis could get a fresh start and the Titans would save just under $1 million in cap room.

Washington Commanders

Projected Cap Space: $88.9 Million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. OT Charles Leno Jr. - $15.5 Million

The Washington Commanders are projected to lead the NFL in cap space. However, with a new ownership group in charge and a new coaching staff incoming, Washington will probably look to make sweeping changes in the offseason.

The rebuild should start along the offensive line, which was atrocious in 2023. Offensive tackle Charles Leno Jr. has been solid in the past and was rewarded with a three-year, $37 million extension in 2021.

However, Leno was largely average this past season, allowing three sacks and drawing 10 flags—according to Pro Football Focus—before landing on injured reserve with a calf injury. Releasing him would save $7.3 million in 2024 cap space.

2. OT Andrew Wylie - $9.4 Million

Washington's other tackle, Andrew Wylie, was even less dependable in 2023. He was responsible for four penalties and nine sacks allowed, according to Pro Football Focus.

From a pure performance standpoint, it would make sense for Washington to move on from Wylie. Doing so with a post-June 1 designation would also save $4.2 million in cap space while triggering a 2024 dead-cap hit of $5.1 million.

Wylie's strong play in Kansas City hasn't followed him to Washington. Unless offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy ends up with the head coaching gig—Washington is considering him, according to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo—Wylie could be out after just one season.

3. WR Dyami Brown - $1.5 Million

A 2021 third-round pick out of North Carolina, wide receiver Dyami Brown has struggled to carve out a consistent role in the offense. He has just 29 catches for 476 yards in 47 appearances and played a higher percentage of special teams snaps (37 percent) than offensive snaps (23 percent) this past season.

While Brown could be in line for a bigger role if Curtis Samuel departs in free agency, Washington could easily look to move on instead. The 24-year-old is entering the final year of his rookie deal and has done nothing to justify a long-term investment.

Releasing Brown would save $1.3 million in cap space, money that could be better spent on a proven veteran more likely to make an immediate 2024 impact.

*Cap and contract information via Spotrac. Advanced statistics from Pro Football Reference unless otherwise noted.