The race for the 2024-2025 Lombardi Trophy is officially down to four teams with the conference championships set for next Sunday. The other 28 teams in the league can now set their sights on the 2025 season.

There's a lot that goes into that pursuit, and NFL front offices don't have much time off once the season is over. Scouting events start in January, and the combine is scheduled for late February into early March before free agency kicks off later in the month.

Teams will attempt to use all of those events to address the various needs on their rosters.

We spent all season tracking each team's biggest weaknesses on a weekly basis. This offseason, B/R's Alex Ballentine will provide updated analysis for all of the ways each team can improve ahead of the 2025 campaign.

This week, we'll take a look at potential cap casualties for each team. The 2025 cap is expected to rise from $255.4 million to somewhere in the range of $265-$275 million. The cap space used for this exercise is based on Spotrac's projection of a $275 million salary cap.

Not every team is in a dire cap situation, but most teams will likely be looking for ways to create more cap space before the start of the new league year on March 12.

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 (per Spotrac): $66.6 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. RB DeeJay Dallas - $3.1 million

There isn't a lot of fat to trim from the Cardinals' payroll in 2025. If they want to clear cap space, it's going to have to come from restructures and extensions. DeeJay Dallas is an exception. The Cardinals signed the former Seahawk to a three-year, $8.3 million contract last offseason. That kind of deal would indicate they planned to make him a part of the offense.

Instead, he only saw nine carries and three targets for the entire season. The Cardinals could easily replace his production and role with a Day 3 draft pick or undrafted free agent and pocket the difference to improve the roster elsewhere.

Releasing Dallas would help the Cardinals clear $2.4 million of his $3.1 million cap hit.

2. LB Mack Wilson - $4.7 million

Mack Wilson's inclusion has more to do with a lack of quality cut candidates than the player himself. There just aren't many players who would give them more than $1 million in cap relief. Wilson signed a three-year, $12.8 million contract last season. He ended up starting 16 games and playing 75 percent of the snaps.

In reality, Wilson's contract isn't bad. He was a solid starter and his deal isn't burdensome. But if the Cardinals feel like they are going to upgrade the position they could feel like it's worth clearing a little bit of cap room. The Cardinals would have an extra $1.1 million to spend.

3. OT Jonah Williams - $16.1 million (post-June 1)

Jonah Williams caps off the list as one of the moves that could clear some significant cap space. It's also the least likely to happen. Williams was signed last offseason to bring some stability to the offensive line and he did that when he was healthy. Unfortunately, he only played six games because of knee injuries.

Williams registered a 70.7 grade from PFF, good for 41st among all tackles. He also didn't give up a single sack. It's not easy to find that kind of production. However, the fact that Williams missed two stretches with a knee injury as he approaches his age-30 season could give the Cardinals grounds to make Jonah Williams a post-June 1 cut and go after a replacement through the draft or free agency.

The Cardinals couldn't access the money until after June 1, but that can go a long way to getting their draft class signed. The move would carve out $10.1 million in 2025 space.

Atlanta Falcons

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): -$6.3 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. DL Grady Jarrett - $20.4 million

Grady Jarrett has been a loyal Falcon throughout this career, but the team is now in the awkward situation where his production doesn't come close to justifying the price tag. The Falcons can't afford to pay $20.4 million for a defensive tackle who has four sacks over the last two seasons. A restructure would mean pushing more money into the future for a 32-year-old defensive tackle so that's not a good solution either.

The Falcons can create $16.4 million in cap space by releasing Jarrett. If the two sides still want to work together, there's nothing stopping Atlanta from bringing him back on a smaller contract. However, his departure would open up more snaps for recent draft picks Ruke Orhorhoro and Brandon Dorlus.

2. DL David Onyemata - $16.9 million

As noted with Jarrett, the Falcons drafted two interior defensive linemen in last year's draft. Ruke Orhorhoro and Brandon Dorlus both saw limited run as rookies, in part, because there was a bevy of veteran options in front of them. It would be surprising for both Orhorhoro and Dorlus to take on similarly small roles next season.

If the Falcons believe they can embrace a youth movement on the interior than David Onyemata could be on the chopping block as well. They could free up $8.1 million of cap space. Onyemata is 32, but he was a productive player this season and still serves a role as an elite run-stuffer. The question is whether that's worth paying up for on a Falcons defense that needs to be better at rushing the passer.

3. WR Ray-Ray McCloud III - $3.1 million

Ray-Ray McCloud was a surprising contributor for the Falcons offense in 2024. He smashed all of his career-highs as a receiver with 62 receptions for 686 yards and a touchdown. Still, he's one of the few candidates they have to clear some cap space that isn't an essential building block moving forward.

The Falcons are facing a tough cap situation, and moving on from Kirk Cousins isn't going to help. Releasing Ray-Ray McCloud to clear up $2.6 million could be the kind of belt-tightening move that is collateral damage.

Baltimore Ravens

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $17.3 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. CB Arthur Maulet - $2.5 million

Cap space is going to be at a premium for the Baltimore Ravens. They remain an annual threat in the AFC, but their cap space is just about spoken for heading into the offseason. So the $2.3 million they can save by cutting Arthur Maulet might not seem like a lot, but every dollar will count as the Ravens figure out how to reload a Super Bowl contender next season.

Cutting Maulet should be a fairly easy choice to make in that regard. Most of his cap hit is non-guaranteed and he only played in three games this season due to injury. Retaining a 31-year-old role player coming off a major injury is not a luxury they'll be able to afford.

2. CB Marlon Humphrey - $25.4 million

Marlon Humphrey is set to have the biggest non-Lamar Jackson cap hit on the Ravens' books next season. That alone could put him on the cap-casualty radar. The Ravens would be able to create $12.7 million in cap space by cutting the corner. Unfortunately, that would also leave them short at a position that was an issue this season. Even if Nate Wiggins is ready for a bigger role in his second season, Brandon Stephens was inconsistent and is headed for free agency.

All things considered, Humphrey is more likely to remain on the roster even if the Ravens have to restructure or extend his contract to create some breathing room. There's risk in that strategy. Humphrey is going to be 29 next season and corners can hit production cliffs pretty fast. But it's better to be stuck with an unruly cap number for him in a few years than create another need for the defense right now.

3. TE Mark Andrews - $16.9 million

Cutting Mark Andrews would be a shocking move. The 29-year-old tight end has been with the franchise since he was drafted in 2018 and he's been a pivotal part of the offense ever since. The only reason this could be a real consideration is that the Ravens are going to be tight against the cap and moving on from Andrews creates $11 million in cap space. It's the second-biggest number on the roster behind Marlon Humphrey.

Trading Andrews or even restructuring his contract are more likely answers. However, it's not clear what the trade market would be for Andrews given his position and the fact that he's approaching his age-30 season. With Isaiah Likely serving as a useful tight end the Ravens could feel like the cap savings would be better spent on pressing needs.

Buffalo Bills

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): -$1.5 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. EDGE Von Miller - $23.8 million

Von Miller was at least a lot more productive in 2024 than he was in 2023, but it's still going to be hard to justify bringing him back at $23.8 million. The soon-to-be 36-year-old registered six sacks while playing 33 percent of the defensive snaps for the Bills. The biggest question might be when, not if, the Bills cut him.

The team would clear $8.4 million of his cap hit if they release him ahead of June 1. That would give them a little more breathing room at the beginning of the league year. However, waiting until after June 1 or giving him that designation would clear $17.4 million. That could be their in-season and late-wave free agency budget alone.

2. K Tyler Bass - $4.7 million

The Bills don't have a lot of wiggle room to create a lot of cash with cuts. Miller is the most obvious one and there are few candidates whose compensation doesn't match their contributions on the field after that.

However, it's worth noting that Tyler Bass is set to make just above the league median for a starting kicker next season. He was below league average in field goal percentage and missed five extra points this season. The Bills could clear $1.6 million by cutting him.

3. LB Matt Milano - $15.8 million (post-June 1)

It's only been two years since Matt Milano was an All-Pro linebacker but it feels like a decade ago. The linebacker simply hasn't been able to stay healthy since his 2022 campaign. He's played just nine games over the last two years with various injuries including an MCL tear and a torn bicep. At 31 years old, there's no guarantee that the injuries won't keep coming.

The Bills' tough salary-cap situation could force them to re-evaluate Milano's contract. He's set to be about the fifth-highest-paid off-ball linebacker in the league. Unfortunately, cutting Milano before June 1 would actually trigger a cap penalty, so the only option is a post-June 1 cut, which would save $9.6 million in 2025 cap space.

Carolina Panthers

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $24.1 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. RB Miles Sanders - $8.2 million

This one's a no-brainer. Sanders isn't a pure cap casualty in the sense that the Panthers would probably be cutting him even if it wasn't going to save them $5.2 million against the cap. Sanders signed a four-year contract in 2023, and the Panthers have gotten very little in return.

Sanders has rushed for 637 yards in two seasons with Carolina. He's averaging 3.5 yards per carry and only got 55 carries in 2024. It's clear the Panthers' coaching staff prefers other options in the backfield, so cutting Sanders is an obvious move.

2. CB Dane Jackson - $5.6 million

Dane Jackson wasn't quite a Miles Sanders-level blunder for the Panthers in free agency. They gave him a two-year, $8.5 million contract in 2023. However, they still haven't got their money's worth. Jackson only played 43 percent of the defensive snaps and wasn't even called upon when Jaycee Horn went down with an injury.

Jackson gave up a 123.6 passer rating when he was targeted this year. The Panthers stand to create $3.4 million in cap space by releasing Jackson. It would also clear a roster spot for another cornerback the Panthers might trust more.

3. DL Shy Tuttle - $9.4 million

The moral of this story might just be that the Panthers have not been good at free agency. Shy Tuttle is yet another player who was signed in 2023. He got a three-year, $19.5 million contract. Two years in, and it's hard to say he's provided a strong return on investment. He was ranked 191st out of 219 interior defenders graded by PFF last season. The Panthers are already paying Derrick Brown premium money, they can't afford to pay an interior sidekick who isn't actually producing.

Cutting Tuttle before the final year of his contract would create an additional $3.3 million in cap space. It's not a lot of space, but the money could still be better spent elsewhere.

Chicago Bears

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $69.3 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. TE Gerald Everett - $6.5 million

The Bears are on the books for $11.6 million for Cole Kmet and $6.5 million for Gerald Everett. It's a lot of money to have tied up into the tight end position for an offense that was inept for most of the season. Kmet was one of Caleb William's most reliable receivers. He caught 47 of his 55 targets for 474 yards and four touchdowns. Gerald Everett, however, was rarely involved. He only had eight catches for 36 yards in 17 games.

Everett will be 31 next season and is clearly second fiddle to Kmet in the pecking order. Not much of his 2025 cap number is guaranteed. The Bears could cut him and get $5.5 million in cap relief.

2. S Kevin Byard - $8.5 million

Kevin Byard was far from the biggest problem the Bears had on defense. That doesn't change the fact that there will be a new coach running that defense, and there's a lot of money to be saved by cutting Byard. $7 million of his $8.5 million would be off the books if the Bears were to cut the veteran.

The fact that the safety is 32 years old could make him expendable. The Bears have to make some headway next season, but the core of their secondary now has enough experience, so they shouldn't need Byard for his experience and leadership.

3. IOL Ryan Bates - $4 million

Ryan Bates' entire $4 million cap hit is not guaranteed next season. So if the Bears are looking to create some quick cash to add to their cap space, then cutting Ryan Bates is the place to start.

Bates does provide interior flexibility. He can play both guard and center which is useful, however, his pass-blocking grade was abysmal last season. He ranked 99th out of 135 guards graded by PFF last season. Offensive line depth is important, but this is an offensive line that needs a few more starters before it worries about depth.

Cincinnati Bengals

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $46.6 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. G Alex Cappa - $10.3 million

The Bengals mostly need to re-shuffle the deck on defense, but the offense has a few players who should be on the chopping block. Alex Cappa probably tops that list. The 29-year-old was ranked 107th out of 135 in pass blocking grade by PFF, giving up eight sacks. Sports Info Solutions also charted a poor season from the veteran, noting that he went from 16 blown blocks in pass pro in 2023 to 32 in 2024.

The Bengals signed Cappa in an attempt to solidify the protection in front of Burrow. He did that in his first two seasons with the Bengals. However, his performance this season—in addition to the $8 million they could save by releasing him—could put his roster spot in jeopardy.

2. S Geno Stone - $8 million

Signing Geno Stone this offseason turned out to be a flop, but the Bengals should still be credited for structuring the contract in a way that they can get out of it a year later. Stone had some late-season interceptions that made his overall numbers look better, but this Bengals secondary was broken for most of the season. Stone played a role in that, and roughly $6.5 million of his cap hit would be wiped off the books if they were to cut him.

The safety market wasn't strong last season, so it's conceivable that the Bengals could replace Stone for cheaper with a bridge veteran. Either way, the Bengals have a lot of work to do with their defense, and moving on from Stone would give them more resources to do it.

3. EDGE Sam Hubbard - $11.5 million

Sam Hubbard has been a solid starter for the Bengals since 2019. He's never been great as a No. 1 pass-rusher, but his ability to hold up against the run and provide some pass-rush assistance has made him a solid complementary threat. Coming out of Ohio State, he's as much of a homegrown talent as you'll find in the NFL.

However, the league often comes down to business decisions, and the fact is it's time for new personnel on defense. Cutting Hubbard would clear all but $2 million of his cap hit for 2025. It would also pave the way for players like Myles Murphy to see a larger role on defense next season.

Cleveland Browns

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): -$32.7 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. OT Jack Conklin - $19.1 million

The Browns find themselves in one of the worst cap situations in the league. Deshaun Watson's contract is cumbersome, and the Browns have managed their books in such a manner that they will need to continue to kick the can down the road to clear immediate cap space. Occasionally, that means parting with talented players to get some breathing room.

Jack Conklin could be the first to go. He's one of the few players who could be cut before June 1 and clear some cap space. There's only $4.6 million available in cap relief, but every bit is going to help Cleveland. If they make him a post-June 1 cut, he would clear $14.6 million.

Conklin's injury history and Dawand Jones' ability to take over at right tackle make Conklin a likely cap casualty.

2. LB Jordan Hicks - $4.2 million

The Browns have limited cut options to clear cap space, so Hicks stands out. Cutting him ahead of free agency would clear $1.5 million in cap space. It's not much, but Hicks will turn 33 ahead of the season and missed five games this season with various injuries.

The Browns are going to need to develop some younger starters at the position. Mohamoud Diabate did some good things to show he can have a role next season, and there are always veteran linebackers available in the summer when the Browns should have more cap room.

3. G Joel Bitonio - $19.1 million (Post-June 1)

The Browns have enjoyed the benefits of one of the best guard duos in the league for several years in Joel Bitonio and Wyatt Teller. Unfortunately, all good things come to an end eventually. The curtain may close on the pair this offseason as they are set to account for a combined cap hit of nearly $35 million.

Bitonio is the more likely of the two to be moved. Ideally, there would be a trade market for him, but he will turn 34 during the next season. The Browns could only cut him with a post-June 1 designation, though. That would clear $8.4 million in space, while there is no space to be made with a pre-June 1 cut.

Dallas Cowboys

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): -$4.3 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. S Donovan Wilson - $8.7 million

The Cowboys' main source of cap relief will likely have to come from restructuring Dak Prescott's contract. There aren't a lot of cut candidates to clear massive cap amounts, and they'll need to maintain some flexibility with a massive extension on the horizon for Micah Parsons.

Part of preparing to clear the budget for Parsons is cutting the amount of money that goes to the rest of the defense. The safety room has two cap-casualty candidates. Donovan Wilson presents the most cap savings. They would clear $5.4 million of his cap hit if they release him. Wilson is still a good player against the run, but he gave up six touchdowns in coverage this season.

2. LB Damone Clark - $1.1 million

The Cowboys are really not in a position to have prolonged patience for players who aren't making progress. That's why Damone Clark's dwindling role this season is a pretty good indicator that he could be among the players the Cowboys cut heading into 2025. Clark only played 18 percent of the defensive snaps after logging 73 percent of them the year before.

Clark was a healthy scratch in the team's season finale. That could be the final straw with just one season left on his rookie deal. Almost none of his final season is guaranteed, and the Cowboys could clear $1 million by cutting him.

3. S Malik Hooker - $7.8 million

The Cowboys could realistically decide to start over at the safety position and hand the starting spots to Juanyeh Thomas, Markquese Bell, a rookie they draft or cheaper free agents. However, Hooker is less likely to be a cap casualty than Wilson because he's a little younger, a little cheaper and he played better this season.

Still, the Cowboys could create $3.8 million in cap space if they were to release Hooker. With a few younger safeties on the roster who might be able to take over his role, the Cowboys could consider parting ways with Hooker.

Denver Broncos

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $39 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. S P.J. Locke - $5.2 million

P.J. Locke made his way from a reserve player to a full-time starter in 2024, but that wasn't necessarily a good thing for the Broncos defense. He was often the weak link in pass coverage and gave up a passer rating of 125.8 when targeted. The Broncos have the foundation for a dominant secondary if they continue on their current path, however, swapping out Locke for another free agent could be the missing piece.

Cutting Locke would be a good cap move as well. They could create $4.2 million in cap space with a minimal dead-cap charge of $1 million.

2. LB Alex Singleton - $6.9 million

Alex Singleton is a harder sell as a cut candidate. He played well in the three games that he played this season and has been a fairly consistent starter in his first two seasons with the Broncos. The problem is that he's a 31-year-old linebacker coming off an ACL tear. Betting that he's going to get back to his prime this late into his career after a serious injury isn't a great bet.

It's also not a bet they have to take if they cut him and free up $5.6 million in 2025 cap space.

3. TE Adam Trautman - $4.5 million

Adam Trautman's connection to Sean Payton has been enough to keep him on the roster for the first two years of his Denver tenure. But it's fair to wonder if that will be enough this spring. Trautman saw his role go from 70 percent of the offensive snaps in 2023 to just 52 percent of the snaps in 2024.

He was not a major part of the passing game with just 22 targets, 13 receptions and 188 yards in 17 games. The Broncos would only clear $2.5 million in cap space with the move, but they would free up some snaps for a more high-upside option.

Detroit Lions

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $67.9 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. DL D.J. Reader - $13 million

The Lions are in decent shape with 2025 cap space, so they might decide not to cut anyone for cap purposes. If they want to make a run at some free agents or clear cap to re-sign their own players, though, then D.J. Reader could be a candidate. They stand to create $8 million in cap space if they were to release the veteran nose tackle.

With Levi Onwuzurike set to hit free agency this could be seen as a way of keeping him and Alim McNeill together for the foreseeable future. Reader will be 31 next season and is generally a part-time player.

2. CB Amik Robertson - $6.4 million

The Lions' pile of cornerback injuries has given Amik Robertson the chance to shine as a cornerback who can play on the inside and outside.

The offseason will give the Lions a chance to re-evaluate the whole position group, though. Carlton Davis is set to become a free agent, and the Lions have young talents in Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. It's possible the Lions may see the $4.8 million they could clear by cutting Robertson as worth dropping the defensive back.

3. LB Jalen Reeves-Maybin - $4.8 million

Jalen Reeves-Maybin has primarily been a contributor on special teams. The Lions had quite a few linebacker injuries this season, and he still only played 159 defensive snaps this year. That being said, Reeves-Maybin has been a special teams contributor for the Lions in seven of his eight NFL seasons. There might be some loyalty there that keeps Detroit from cutting ties.

However, he's going to be 30 years old next season, and the Lions might want to consider giving that role and roster spot to a younger player with more potential.

Green Bay Packers

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $36.4 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. CB Jaire Alexander - $25.4 million

The Packers have done a nice job of balancing their books, so there isn't a lot of need to make massive cuts for cap purposes. The only player with a major contract who is going to need to be addressed is Jaire Alexander. He is being paid like one of the top corners in the league, but his health has become an issue. He's only played in 14 games over the past two seasons.

There are going to be other solutions than outright cutting him. He could be a restructure or trade candidate, but a pre-June 1 cut would save the organization $7.3 million in 2025 cap space. A post-June 1 cut would create $17.5 million.

Neither is probably the best option. Alexander could have a trade market, and it would be worth checking in on whether he'd be willing to take a pay cut.

2. QB Malik Willis - $1.4 million

Willis' inclusion on this list speaks to how few candidates the Packers really have to consider cutting for cap reasons. Willis isn't likely to become a full-time starter in his career, but he put up good numbers when called into action in 2024.

That being said, he's one of the few players who doesn't have a big role that could create more than $1 million in cap space. The entirety of his $1.4 million cap hit would come off the books if he were released.

3. LS Matthew Orzech - $1.2 million

Again, there aren't many contracts with a lot of cap space to carve out. They have so many players on rookie contracts or early in big extensions that there aren't a ton of players who have non-guaranteed money on their contracts next season.

Long snapper Matthew Orzech is one of the few. They can completely move on from him at no cost to the 2025 salary cap. However, the cost to replace him would be right around what he makes, so there's little financial incentive to do so.

Houston Texans

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $10.7 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. DL Denico Autry - $10.3 million

Denico Autry seemed like a good get for a Texans team that was trying to become a contender in 2024. He was coming off an 11.5-sack campaign with the division rival Titans when the Texans signed him last year. Unfortunately for them, his age started to show, and he only had 3.5 sacks while playing just 47 percent of the snaps in his 10 games.

Autry carries the largest cap savings for any pre-June 1 cut the Texans can make. Most of their contracts carry very little non-guaranteed money going into 2025, and the Texans would create $5.8 million in cap space by releasing him. The interior of the defensive line is already a need, but the Texans could find cheaper and younger alternatives and need the cap space.

2. IOL Shaq Mason - $14.6 million

It's no secret that the Texans' offensive line is going to have to undergo a facelift this offseason. The unit just wasn't good enough for the Texans offense to take the leap that most thought they would make this season. Shaq Mason wasn't the main culprit, but his salary and the potential cap savings are going to put him on the team's radar.

The 31-year-old allowed eight sacks and was ranked 92nd among the 135 guards that PFF graded in run-blocking grade. The problem is that there isn't much cap savings if Mason is released before June 1. That would create a dead-cap charge of $12.5 million and a savings of just $2.1 million. However, a post June-1 cut would create $9.4 million.

3. RB Dameon Pierce - $1.3 million

Outside of restructures and extensions, the Texans don't have a lot of avenues to reduce their cap number. Given how little space they have, they will need to go through their roster and see where they can reduce costs. So while the $1.1 million they can free up by cutting Dameon Pierce isn't a huge number, it's a move that makes a lot of sense. He only had 40 carries in 11 games and has just one year left on his contract.

Indianapolis Colts

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $25.8 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. OT Braden Smith - $19.8 million

Colts right tackle Braden Smith missed the final stretch of the season due to a "personal matter", but cutting him doesn't really have to do with that absence. In truth, the Colts set the wheels in motion to potentially cutting Smith at the end of this season when they drafted Matt Goncalves in the third round of last year's draft.

The Colts can release Smith and only have to pay a $3 million dead-cap charge while opening up $16.8 million in cap space. Smith graded out as a top-20 run-blocker at tackle this season, but he was 59th in pass protection while racking up 12 penalties in his 731 offensive snaps, per PFF. His level of play isn't enough to get cut, but the fact that the Colts can create a much larger budget to improve the team can't be ignored.

2. DL Raekwon Davis - $9 million

Between DeForest Buckner, Grover Stewart and Raekwon Davis, the Colts have a lot of money wrapped up in the interior defensive line. The three are set to account for about $49.8 million against the cap. That's probably not a great way to go about building a defense that has needs at other levels.

The most logical cap casualty would be Davis. They could clear $6.5 million of his cap hit with a pre-June 1 cut, and he only played 30 percent of the defensive snaps this season.

3. EDGE Tyquan Lewis - $7.1 million

The Colts have stuck with Tyquan Lewis since his rookie year in 2018 despite a lot of missed games and lackluster production. That loyalty will be tested this offseason. Lewis missed seven games with injury this season and only notched 1.5 sacks in the 10 games for which he was healthy. With younger options on the edge available and the money to go out and improve the position, it wouldn't be surprising if the Colts were to part way with Lewis.

The team could save $4.6 million of his cap hit by releasing him, and they have already proven they have the talent on the roster to play without him.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $31.7 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. WR Christian Kirk - $24.1 million

As it stands, Christian Kirk is slated to be the most expensive player on the Jacksonville roster next season. That makes it a virtual guarantee the Jaguars will be doing something with his contract. Trading him with that deal is going to be a tough sell, so cutting him might be their best option. A pre-June 1 move would trigger $10.4 million in cap savings. A post-June 1 cut would create $16.2 million

The Jaguars signed Kirk when it was clear the receiver room needed an overhaul. This year, he only played in eight games due to injury and managed 27 receptions for 379 yards. Brian Thomas Jr.'s emergence as Trevor Lawrence's No. 1 receiver makes Kirk unnecessary at that cost.

2. TE Evan Engram - $19.5 million

Evan Engram is just one year removed from a Pro Bowl season. Unfortunately, his production saw a big drop before a shoulder injury ended his season prematurely. Now he's a 30-year-old tight end coming off of a season-ending injury with a massive cap hit for a tight end. The new coaching staff will have to seriously ask if Engram's role will be worth his salary.

If the Jaguars decide to cut Engram, it will be interesting to see how they handle it. A pre-June 1 cut would create roughly $6 million and leave them with a $13.5 million dead cap charge. However, giving it a post-June 1 designation would clear up $15.5 million in space with just a $4 million dead-cap charge in 2025.

3. WR Josh Reynolds - $4.6 million

If this exercise shows anything about the Jaguars roster, it's that changes are coming in the passing attack. Kirk and Engram could both be gone, and Reynolds could easily see himself on that list. The Jaguars claimed him off waivers in December when injuries hit the position.

Jacksonville could wipe out his entire $4.6 million cap hit by releasing him. The veteran receiver only had one reception in the four games he played with the Jaguars. They will likely look to get more young receivers involved as they build around Brian Thomas Jr. and Gabe Davis.

Kansas City Chiefs

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $16.3 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. G Joe Thuney - $26.9 million

The Chiefs have enjoyed the benefits of having one of the most dominant interior trios on the offensive line over the last few seasons. Trey Smith, Creed Humphrey and Joe Thuney are among the highest-regarded players at their positions. But it's hard to envision the team retaining all three of them after this offseason. The team already handed Humphrey a lucrative extension, Smith is set to hit free agency and Thuney carries the fourth-highest cap hit on the team right now.

One possible solution is to part ways with Thuney to clear up the cap space they'll need to sign Smith. Thuney has just one year left on his deal, and they can create $16 million in 2025 cap space with a $10.9 million dead-cap charge by releasing him before June 1. That would allow them to keep the duo of Smith and Humphrey together for a long time.

2. WR Skyy Moore - $2 million

There aren't a lot of cap savings for cutting Skyy Moore. The Chiefs would create just $1.6 million in room. However, there aren't a lot of downsides to cutting him at this point, either. The truth is that he might have been cut during the season if it weren't for the core injury that sent him to the injured reserve. His move to the IR cleared the roster spot the Chiefs used to add DeAndre Hopkins to the roster.

Moore only appeared in six games this season and only played 82 offensive snaps. He doesn't bring much to special teams. Clearing a roster spot for another receiver is probably the move here.

3. TE Travis Kelce - $19.8 million

Cutting Travis Kelce is obviously a long shot. He might be 35 years old with waning production, but he's still one of the best tight ends in the league. His chemistry with Patrick Mahomes has been the driving force behind the Chiefs' passing game for years now. However, the Chiefs would be able to create $17.3 million in cap space by releasing Kelce.

This is much more likely to come into play if Kelce decides to retire. The star tight end has wavered on his retirement stance in media appearances. If he decides to walk away, the Chiefs have structured his contract in a way that's going to help them with their cap space.

Las Vegas Raiders

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $94 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. QB Gardner Minshew II - $14 million

The Raiders ended up firing general manager Tom Telesco after it initially looked like he was going to keep his job. So it's going to be hard to know what direction the roster will go until they decide on a new head coach and general manager. Still, it's a pretty safe bet that whoever is in charge won't have Gardner Minshew in the plan for the future.

Minshew went 2-7 as the starter this season, throwing more interceptions (10) than touchdowns (9) and posting a miserable 38.3 QBR. Whether it's through the draft or free agency, the Raiders feel destined to start over at the quarterback position, and cutting Minshew would save $6.3 million against the cap.

2. C Andre James - $8.7 million

Andre James doesn't generate a ton of cap savings. Only $1.4 million of his cap hit would come off the books if he's cut before June 1. That number would climb to $3.2 million if they wait until after June 1, which seems more likely at this point. Either way, it doesn't feel like James will be on the Raiders roster by the beginning of next season. Rookie Jackson Powers-Johnson took over the starting center job by the end of the season, and the new regime will not have a sense of loyalty to the veteran.

James is scheduled to be paid like a starting lineman, but it's hard seeing the Raiders not going with Powers-Johnson as the center moving forward. Waiting until June 2 or later could give them a little budget boost to post some third- or fourth-wave free agents.

3. CB Jack Jones - $3.3 million

The Raiders don't really need to carve out cap space. They have the second-highest projected cap space number in the league, and there aren't a lot of candidates to cut that even make sense. If the Raiders decide to do some housekeeping, then Jack Jones could be a surprise candidate. The entirety of his $3.3 million cap hit would come off the books if they release him.

Jones was a midseason acquisition in 2023 and really looked like a success story of Antonio Pierce's coaching regime. However, he kind of came back down to earth this season and was responsible for giving up eight touchdowns in coverage, per Pro Football Reference. $3.3 million isn't much for a potential starter at corner, but if the new coaching regime isn't a fan then he could be sent to the free-agent pool.

Los Angeles Chargers

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $64.9 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. OL Trey Pipkins III - $9.3 million

The Chargers have exercised a lot of patience with Trey Pipkins. He has been with the team since 2019 and was given the time to blossom into a starting tackle for most of his tenure. However, his struggles at the position and the drafting of Joe Alt brought about a move to guard this season. It gave Pipkins a starting role, but he didn't necessarily play well enough to keep the job going into next season.

Pipkins surrendered six sacks and earned the 95th-ranked pass-blocking grade for all guards by PFF. Given Jim Harbaugh's emphasis on having a dominant offensive line, it would be surprising if the Chargers didn't make an effort to upgrade the position, and the $6.8 million they could save by cutting Pipkins is likely to help replace him.

2. EDGE Joey Bosa - $36.4 million

Cutting Joey Bosa might not be the best or most popular move, but it's going to have to be a consideration. The 29-year-old put together his healthiest season in three years, but he wasn't the dominant pass-rusher he once was. He only accumulated five sacks in 14 games and registered a career-low 12.5 pressure percentage, per Sports Info Solutions.

It's hard to justify paying him over $35 million for that kind of production. Trading him is an option, but getting another team to take on his contract could be a challenge. Straight-up cutting him would create $25.4 million in cap space. Joe Hortiz has shown he isn't afraid of moving on from pricey vets when he parted ways with Keenan Allen and Mike Williams last season. Bosa could be next.

3. RB Gus Edwards - $4.3 million

The Chargers' rushing attack was simply not good enough for the kind of team they want to be. Justin Herbert is the main attraction in the offense, but a team coached by Harbaugh and Greg Roman is bound to want more out of its ground attack. That likely means parting ways with Gus Edwards.

He will turn 30 in April and averaged just 3.6 yards per carry with a 49.5 percent success rate. Those numbers are similar to Kimani Vidal. The difference is that Vidal was a sixth-round rookie who will cost the team next to nothing in 2025, and they could save $3.1 million by cutting Edwards.

Los Angeles Rams

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $49.3 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. TE Tyler Higbee - $9.6 million

Tyler Higbee signed a two-year contract extension during the 2023 season, but it might be time to cut ties just one year into it. Cutting Higbee would generate a dead-cap hit of $6.2 million, but the savings might be worth it. The big tight end suffered a torn ACL and MCL in the playoffs and missed all but three of the final games of this season.

The 32-year-old has been a factor in the offense in his return. He caught eight passes for 66 yards and two touchdowns, but it's still worth questioning whether they want to pay him starting tight end money next season.

The Rams could clear $3.4 million in cap space. It's a move that makes sense when you consider they are also set to pay tight end Colby Parkinson $9.8 million next season.

2. CB Darious Williams - $9.1 million

The Rams brought Darious Williams back last offseason after his two-year stint in Jacksonville. Unfortunately, age seems to have started to set in on the 31-year-old defensive back. He gave up a career-high 101.7 passer rating when targeted this season.

Los Angeles has been fairly successful at drafting and developing young defensive backs. They could probably bring along a much cheaper option who could be a long-term solution. Moving on from Williams would clear $3.8 million.

3. WR Cooper Kupp - $29.8 million

This is a tough one, because Cooper Kupp has meant so much to the franchise, but the fact is that Kupp is going to be 32 years old next season and hasn't had a 1,000-yard season since 2021. He's played 12 or fewer games in each of the last three seasons and clearly isn't the player he once was.

Releasing him between now and March 16 would clear $7.5 million. Waiting until after that date would only cut that number down to $5 million. In other words, if Kupp is still on the roster by March 16 they're either going to keep him or try to work out a new deal that includes a pay cut.

Miami Dolphins

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): -$14.2 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. RB Raheem Mostert - $3.9 million

Raheem Mostert doesn't present the biggest opportunity to cut costs, but the $2.9 million they would create isn't insignificant for a team that's over the cap. Mostert is set to be the highest-paid running back on the roster, but that no longer makes sense. De'Von Achane is clearly the lead back, and they just drafted Jaylen Wright last year.

Mostert had 439 yards from scrimmage this season, but he saw a smaller role as the year went on. He'll also be 33 next season, which is a nearly unheard-of age for a running back in today's NFL.

2. EDGE Bradley Chubb - $29.3 million (Post-June 1)

The Dolphins have some work to do to get in the black for the offseason. That will most likely happen through extensions and restructures, because there aren't a lot of cuts that save them a bunch of money. Cutting Bradley Chubb after June 1 isn't necessarily about making space for this season, though. It's about having a better long-term cap outlook. Chubb is on the books for a similar cap hit in each of the next three seasons. Cutting him after June 1 would save $20.2 million this season and spread out his dead-cap charge over the next two years.

Chubb is a 29-year-old edge-rusher who missed this season with a serious knee injury. It would be understandable to let second-year player Chop Robinson team up with Jaelan Phillips and let those two carry the pass rush next season.

3. OT Terron Armstead - $22.4 million (Post-July 1)

Terron Armstead is still playing at an elite level despite being 33 years old. The concern here is a bloated payroll and the fact that Armstead has struggled to stay healthy throughout his career. The tackle is an elite mover when on the field and has made five Pro Bowl appearances, however, he's never played a full season.

Those injuries are bound to catch up with him at some point. When they do, the Dolphins really don't want to be on the hook for his massive salary. Releasing him before June 1 would only create $4.3 million in cap space, but a post-June 1 cut would create $15 million. Given the Dolphins' financial situation, those are numbers that have to at least be considered.

Minnesota Vikings

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $64.4 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. TE Josh Oliver - $9.4 million

This signing was a bit of a head-scratcher when it happened, and it's likely to be re-evaluated in the spring. The Vikings signed Josh Oliver to a three-year, $21 million contract in 2023, and the final year is set to be the most expensive. Oliver is a good blocking tight end, but paying him just under $10 million is a questionable value when he only played 56 percent of the offensive snaps in 2024.

The Vikings will already be paying T.J. Hockenson $16.9 million next season. Giving that much money to a second tight end is a difficult pill to swallow, and cutting Oliver would free up $5.1 million.

2. LB Brian Asamoah - $1.7 million

Time is running out for Brian Asamoah to really pay off as a third-round investment. There was a clear path to playing time at linebacker when the Vikings drafted him and he still hasn't really claimed a role on the defense three years later.

He has found a home on special teams, and it isn't like he breaks the bank. However, it would be logical that the Vikings might want to cut ties with him, pocket the $1.5 million in cap savings and draft another linebacker.

3. IOL Ed Ingram - $1.9 million

Do the Vikings believe Ed Ingram is going to become a functional starter? That's the question they need to answer at this point. Ingram has started 41 games for the Vikings over the last three seasons but was benched in favor of Dalton Risner this year.

According to PFF, he surrendered five sacks in those nine starts while drawing three penalties and grading out as the 98th guard among the 135 they ranked. Linemen often take a while to really find their footing in the league, but if the Vikings don't believe he is going to come around, then they can save $1.5 million by cutting him.

New England Patriots

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $124.9 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. WR Kendrick Bourne - $7.7 million

The Patriots don't have to make a single cut to have cap space, but that's not really a smart way to manage a payroll. They should be examining contracts that could be cut to make sure they have the best roster possible next season. This is a team that has to build momentum with Mike Vrabel taking over as head coach.

One of the chief objectives this season has to be remodeling the receiver room. That means potentially moving on from a veteran like Kendrick Bourne. The Patriots have some young pass-catchers to bring along and will definitely be on the lookout for new options in free agency. Cutting Bourne would add $4.9 million to their cap space number.

2. LB Ja'Whaun Bentley - $6.4 million

It wouldn't be surprising if the Patriots wind up keeping Ja'Whaun Bentley. As previously noted, they have plenty of money to spend, and Mike Vrabel might prefer to keep the veteran linebacker for the middle of the defense. That being said, Vrabel could prefer to bring in someone else who fits his vision for an off-ball linebacker. If that's the case, the Patriots could decide that the $4.6 million in cap space that would come with cutting Bentley is worth it.

The 28-year-old was limited to two games this season with a torn pec, so that could factor into the Patriots' decision as well.

3. OT Vederian Lowe - $3.3 million

The Patriots will likely keep Vederian Lowe despite a shaky 2024 season. He isn't going to break the bank—they have plenty of cash and a tackle with starting experience isn't easy to find on the open market. However, it's worth noting that all of Lowe's $3.3 million cap hit would disappear if they released him. Lowe gave up five sacks and drew 13 penalties while registering one of PFF's lowest run-blocking grades this season.

New Orleans Saints

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $-59.2 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. DL Khalen Saunders - $4.7 million

As per usual, the New Orleans Saints are in a class by themselves when it comes to cap management. They will go into the offseason well over the salary cap with a lot of work to do just to be able to sign players. The Saints' philosophy of restructuring contracts and pushing money into the future leaves them with very few cut candidates that actually free up some money.

Khalen Saunders is an exception. The defensive tackle could be released to create $2.6 million in cap space. Saunders has been a decent run-stuffing nose tackle for the team, but that might not be enough to save his job on a roster that has to be re-tooled after a 5-12 season.

2. Cedrick Wilson Jr. - $3.4 million

There were plenty of opportunities for any receiver to step up for the Saints this season. Juwan Johnson, Alvin Kamara and Foster Moreau were the team's leading receivers in 2024. If Cedrick Wilson didn't emerge as a consistent part of the offense this season, he's not going to.

Wilson had just 20 receptions for 211 yards and a touchdown on the season despite making an appearance in 15 games. It's time to move on, and the Saints would clear $2.4 million.

3. TE Foster Moreau - $4.6 million

Again, the Saints don't have many options to clear cap space with traditional cuts, so they'll have to consider them where they can. That's going to put Foster Moreau on their radar. The 27-year-old caught 32 passes for 413 yards and five touchdowns, so it wasn't like he didn't live up to his contract, but the Saints are going to have more pressing needs and very little budget to work with.

Releasing Moreau would free up $2.8 million. Moreau would be difficult to replace for less than that. Juwan Johnson is a free agent, and Taysom Hill is not really a traditional tight end.

New York Giants

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $47.8 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. K Graham Gano - $5.7 million

Graham Gano was the highest-paid kicker in the league in 2024, and he's set to be the fifth-highest-paid in 2025. That seems like a bit much for a team that has much bigger needs across the roster. Gano is now 38 years old and has dealt with injuries over the last two seasons. Given his age and the fact that the Giants can clear $3.2 million of his cap hit by releasing him before June 1, he could be a cap casualty.

The Giants aren't exactly strapped for cash, but this could still be a move they make just to prioritize that cash differently.

2. DL Rakeem Nunez-Roches - $5 million

Rakeem Nunez-Roches is a fine player. However, if the Giants get the idea that they want to carve out more cap space, he's a player they are going to discuss. The Giants can create $3.6 million by releasing the veteran.

Nunez-Roches is going to be 32 next season, and he's only been a rotational run-stuffer. They are likely better off pocketing their cap savings and giving his snaps to a younger player who could be part of a rebuilding defense.

3. OT Jermaine Eluemunor - $9.1 million

Unfortunately, making this move would require faith in Evan Neal. That's not a proposition that has paid off for the Giants thus far. If Neal were to demonstrate that he's going to be able to get his career on track, then New York could release veteran tackle Jermaine Eluemunor and clear $6.4 million in cap space.

As it stands, this probably wouldn't be a wise move. Unless the Giants feel that money could go toward finding an even better right tackle they are better off keeping Eluemunor. The veteran was a solid starter at right tackle, and that's not always easy to find.

New York Jets

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $12.1 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. WR Davante Adams - $38.3 million

CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones reported that there is "great doubt" around the NFL that Aaron Rodgers will be back with the Jets in 2025. Last season was a disaster for Gang Green. While Rodgers wasn't the only culprit, he wasn't good enough to elevate the team beyond their struggles. That likely means a new era in New York, and it also likely means his longtime teammates could be on the chopping block.

That would include Davante Adams. While the Jets will certainly hope to find a trade partner, they won't have much leverage. Adams has a burdensome contract, and the Jets could clear up $29.9 million of his cap hit by releasing him before June 1.

2. WR Allen Lazard - $13.1 million

Again, Rodgers' impending exit also means the Jets no longer have an impetus to keep his buddies on the roster. Lazard was a decent deep threat for the Jets, hauling in 37 passes for 530 yards and six touchdowns. Is that production worth what he's being paid? Probably not.

A little over half of Lazard's cap hit would become cap room if the Jets were to cut him. If they intend to rebuild the receiver room and move on from the Rodgers era, it makes a lot of sense to pull the trigger.

3. QB Aaron Rodgers - $23.5 million (Post-June 1)

Rodgers is listed as the third option here because the cap savings aren't as good or immediate as the receivers that are associated with him. The Jets don't have a way of saving anything against the cap by trading or releasing him before June 1. It would get him off their books completely in the 2026 season, but it would also come with a $49 million dead-cap charge.

Instead, the Jets are more likely to designate him as a post-June 1 cut and pocket $9.5 million in 2025 savings. However, that would push a $35 million dead-cap charge into 2026.

Philadelphia Eagles

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $26.9 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. CB James Bradberry - $7.8 million (Post-June 1)

The Eagles' aggressive management of the salary cap means they have virtually no contracts that can be cut to create cap space. Most of their cap space will have to be created through restructures and extensions. However, there are a few strong candidates to be released with a post-June 1 designation to create cap room later in the offseason.

That money can't be overlooked. Teams still need cap space in the summer as they look to sign their draft class, make trades or go after free agents in the later waves of player movement.

James Bradberry will be a prime candidate. He has missed the entire 2024 season and played a major role in the collapse of the Eagles' secondary last season. This is the only way for the Eagles to part ways with the veteran and create cap space. $4.7 million of his cap hit would become available after June 1.

2. CB Darius Slay - $13.7 million (Post-June 1)

Darius Slay has been a mainstay in the Eagles secondary since 2020, but it's fair to wonder how much longer he can justify his salary. Philadelphia now has a young core in place with Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. Both have put together strong rookie seasons and will allow the Eagles to have a relatively cheap secondary for the next few seasons.

Slay could be part of the unit for one more season, but he's 34 years old. That's a fairly large bet on him maintaining his level of play at a position that requires elite athleticism. The Eagles could clear $4.3 million by cutting him after June 1. It's not a ton of money, and they'd be losing a talented player, but it's one of the few moves they have in their arsenal.

3. DT Byron Young - $1.3 million

The NFL is a cutthroat business sometimes. The Eagles claimed Byron Young off waivers after he was released by the Raiders. Unfortunately, Young hasn't played a snap for the Eagles yet. The defensive tackle didn't crack the lineup early in the season and has been on the injured reserve with a hamstring injury since October.

Young could wind up getting cut if the Eagles find themselves in a cap jam. None of his $1.3 million cap hit for the 2025 season is guaranteed, so the Eagles could pocket the entire hit if they cut him.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $39.3 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. EDGE Preston Smith - $13.4 million

The Steelers only gave up a seventh-round pick to acquire Preston Smith ahead of the trade deadline this season. The veteran pass-rusher ended up playing 161 defensive snaps in eight games for the Steelers and was inactive for the team's playoff game against the Baltimore Ravens.

That's as good an indication as any that the Steelers won't have Smith on their roster next season. They can wipe the entire $13.4 million cap hit off their books by cutting him. Alex Highsmith and T.J. Watt are a strong pass-rushing duo, and that's a lot of money to give a third edge rusher. The 32-year-old seems destined for free agency.

2. LB Cole Holcomb - $7.6 million

Unfortunately, letting Cole Holcomb go will be another no-brainer for the Steelers. The 28-year-old linebacker didn't end up playing in 2024 because of a knee injury. The veteran's health has been an issue for a while now. He's only played in 15 games over the past three years, and the Steelers seem to have moved on at linebacker.

$6 million of Holcomb's $7.6 million cap hit would be gone if the Steelers cut him. With Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson on the roster, they have the players in place to let Holcomb hit the open market.

3. DL Larry Ogunjobi - $10.5 million

Larry Ogunjobi has been solid for the Steelers, but his play this season has brought his value into question. He's scheduled to be one of the top 25 highest-paid defensive tackles in the league, but he's not necessarily playing at that level anymore. PFF graded him as the 100th interior defender out of 125.

Ogunjobi will be 31 next season, and the Steelers have younger players who could step into that role. Even if they don't feel their younger players are ready, they have plenty of money to potentially get a better, younger player with the $7 million they would save by cutting him.

San Francisco 49ers

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $46.1 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. EDGE Yetur Gross-Matos - $9.7 million

The Niners took a swing on Yetur Gross-Matos's potential as a former second-round pick. He ended up being a decent rotational piece. He racked up four sacks and played 54 percent of the snaps. However, it's important to note that three of his four sacks came in one game against the Chicago Bears.

It might be nice to have Gross-Matos back and see if the 26-year-old can get better under the guidance of the Niners coaching staff. However, he's one of the few players they can cut to create cap savings, as he would clear $3 million.

The Niners could easily opt to part ways with Gross-Matos and draft his replacement in the spring.

2. WR Deebo Samuel - $16 million (post-June 1)

The Niners are at a bit of a crossroads with Deebo Samuel. After giving Brandon Aiyuk a lucrative contract extension last season, they are a bit overextended at the position. With Brock Purdy due for an extension, it might be time to part ways with Samuel.

The preferred solution would be a trade. The cap savings are the same as a cut in his case, and they would also get something in return. However, there's also a scenario in which teams wait them out and force them to cut the 29-year-old.

Releasing or trading him after June 1 would clear up $5.2 million. It's not a huge amount, but the Niners are going to be navigating a pretty tight cap situation.

3. EDGE Leonard Floyd - $10.1 million (post-June 1)

If the 49ers like Yetur Gross-Matos' potential and want to get younger at the position, then Leonard Floyd could become a cap casualty. They can't reap the benefits until after June 1, though. Cutting him before June 1 would only save $1.5 million against the cap. But the later release would give the Niners $8 million in cap flexibility. That could go a long way toward signing their draft class or carving out an in-season budget.

The drawback is that Floyd was still a productive player last season. The 32-year-old was right behind Nick Bosa for the team lead in sacks with 8.5 on the year. Moving him to create cap space would feel like a confession that the Niners have some rebuilding to do.

Seattle Seahawks

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): -$28.5 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. DL Dre'Mont Jones - $25.6 million

The Seahawks are paying Dre'Mont Jones like an elite interior lineman. The production wasn't even close to that standard in 2024. The 28-year-old only played 55 percent of the snaps this season. His run defense grade was 192nd among interior defenders, per PFF, and he only had four sacks. It's hard to justify bringing Jones back at that price tag with those numbers.

Trading for Leonard Williams probably signaled the end for Jones during the season. They'll be paying the former Giant $29.1 million if they don't restructure or extend him. They can free up $11.6 million by cutting Jones at the beginning of the offseason.

2. WR Tyler Lockett - $30.9 million

The Seahawks have to do something about Tyler Lockett's cap number going into 2025. It's just not good business to pay that much money to a 32-year-old receiver coming off of a 600-yard campaign. Lockett has been a Seahawk for his entire career, but he's losing ground in the receiver hierarchy, and this team has big needs elsewhere on the roster.

A restructure or extension for the veteran that would include a pay cut and a serious shifting of money could be solutions. But straight-up releasing Lockett is another consideration. The move would free up $17 million in cap space.

3. QB Geno Smith - $44.5 million

Seahawks head coach Mike MacDonald recently said he saw no reason that Geno Smith wouldn't be back in Seattle next season. In reality, there are about 31 million reasons why the Seahawks could ultimately decide to move on from the quarterback. That's how much of his $44.5 million cap hit they could free up if they were to move on from him.

That's not saying it's likely. This was his least productive season as a starter for Seattle, but he still went 10-7 as the starter. Considering the general lack of depth in this rookie quarterback class, this might not be the year to dump a proven vet and draft his successor.

However, the potential cap savings and search for a new offensive coordinator does present an opportunity to shuffle the deck on offense.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $17.3 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. S Jordan Whitehead - $4.5 million

The Buccaneers don't have a lot of options to clear cap space through cuts. That might be enough for the team to have a serious conversation about whether to keep Jordan Whitehead. The 27-year-old returned after his stint with the New York Jets, but his second run with the Bucs might be short-lived. Whitehead is a strong tackler and does well against the run, but he gave up a 125.5 passer rating when targeted.

He's given up 10 passing touchdowns in coverage over the last two seasons. Three of those were in his 12 games with the Bucs this season. Those numbers aren't bad enough to automatically cut him loose, but Tampa's limited options could be his undoing. His entire $4.5 million cap hit would come off the books.

2. RB Sean Tucker - $1 million

The Buccaneers signed Sean Tucker as an undrafted free agent in 2023. He hasn't earned a ton of opportunities, but it is worth mentioning his Week 6 performance against the New Orleans Saints earned him Offensive Player of the Week honors. He had 136 yards on 14 carries and another 56 yards on three receptions.

Still, the Bucs are short on options to save cap space and they already have Rachaad White and Bucky Irving on the roster. It would be better to find a trade partner for Tucker, but the trade market for running backs is not robust.

3. CB Jamel Dean - $15.3 million

Jamel Dean isn't higher on this list because the Bucs lost Carlton Davis last offseason. It would be hard to completely turn over the cornerback position in a two-year span. However, the cap savings are good enough to warrant mentioning. The Bucs would create $8.4 million in cap space if they parted ways with Dean.

For a team that's going to have limited options to create cap space, that could be tempting. Chris Godwin is among the team's pending free agents, so it could be a priority to carve out space for his extension. Dean started 12 games this season and only registered seven passes defended while giving up a passer rating of 91.2 when targeted.

Tennessee Titans

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $50.3 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. LB Kenneth Murray - $10.2 million

Sometimes offseason cuts come down to a front office betting that they can get more production for a lower cost. As new Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi starts surveying his roster, he might look at linebacker as a spot where they can save some money. Former GM Ran Carthon signed Kenneth Murray in free agency, but they can get out of his contract to create $7.7 million in cap space.

Murray was ranked 80th out of the 83 linebackers that PFF graded last season. There are generally effective linebackers who are usually available in the later waves of free agency for much cheaper than it would cost to pay Murray in the second year of his contract.

2. EDGE Harold Landry III - $24.1 million

Harold Landry's nine sacks this season obscured the waning production that more advanced stats show. In his second full season back from a torn ACL, Landry actually registered a career-low 9.2 pressure rate, per Sports Info Solutions. His final pre-injury season saw him rack up 62 total pressures as opposed to the 33 he had this season. Those underlying numbers point toward a player who is slowing down.

Arden Key is the only other notable edge-rusher on the roster, so finding more pass-rushing heat is going to need to be a priority. At this point, the $11 million they could have in cap space might help them find a more productive player than Landry will be in his age-29 season.

3. OT Nicholas Petit-Frere - $3.6 million

Cutting Nicholas Petit-Frere wouldn't be purely motivated by cap space. The right tackle lost his starting job and still managed to give up 10 sacks while only starting in 10 games this season. The pass protection has to get better, and right tackle will be one of the team's biggest needs ahead of the season.

$3.6 million isn't a lot for a developmental tackle, but that role really belongs to Jaelyn Duncan. Based on what Petit-Frere has done so far, the Titans could cut him and pocket the $3.3 million in cap savings without worrying the move will come back to bite them.

Washington Commanders

Projected Cap Space (per Spotrac): $93 million

Top Potential Cap Casualties

1. RB Austin Ekeler - $5 million

Austin Ekeler was one of the biggest names in the Commanders' 2024 free agent class. The group of new additions has played a major role in Washington's turnaround this season. However, it's fair to wonder if Ekeler needs to be a part of the offense moving forward. Ekeler missed games with multiple concussions this season and will be in his age-30 campaign next season.

The Commanders mostly used Ekeler as a receiving back. Brian Robinson Jr. and Jayden Daniels saw a lot more of the carries. Ekeler did turn his 41 targets into 35 catches for 366 yards. Washington could probably get that kind of production at a much cheaper rate if they are looking to carve out about $3.5 million in their budget.

2. OT Andrew Wylie - $10.4 million

The Commanders' decision to give Andrew Wylie a three-year, $24 million deal back in 2023 raised some eyebrows. It's a decent contract to give someone who was mostly a starter at guard for the Chiefs. However, he's mostly held up his end of the bargain. He's played well enough that the Commanders offense could turn around with Jayden Daniels at quarterback this season.

Washington has now proven it can get to the playoffs. The Commanders also have a ton of cash and the resources to potentially upgrade the position. If they find that opportunity, then the $7.8 million they could save by cutting Wylie could be appealing.

3. CB Marshon Lattimore - $18 million

It wouldn't necessarily be great process for the Commanders to cut Marshon Lattimore. They traded a third-, fourth- and sixth-round pick for Lattimore and a fifth ahead of this year's trade deadline. Turning around and releasing him in the offseason wouldn't be a great look.

But it's still something worth looking into if the Commanders don't love what they've seen from Lattimore. The 28-year-old only ended up playing two regular-season games before a hamstring injury took him out of the lineup. He made his return in the playoffs, but injuries have been a major issue. He's only played 26 regular-season games over the last three seasons.

If they aren't confident he can be healthy and play at a high level, then they could release him and free up the entire $18 million cap hit.