2026 NFL Offseason Preview: Potential Cuts and Trade Candidates
NFL teams are already planning significant roster decisions ahead of the 2026 season. Several high-profile players, either due to costly contracts or shifting priorities, may not return to their current teams. Front offices are closely evaluating performance, value, and future flexibility. With the new league year approaching in March, decisions will come fast. Consequently, these players are among the most likely to be released or traded this offseason.
Brandon Aiyuk
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The 49ers removed the guarantees in Brandon Aiyuk’s deal, which usually signals a potential split. He missed all of 2025 due to an ACL injury, but had 1,342 yards the season before. A trade would cost San Francisco $29.6 million in dead money unless they wait until after June 1. There’s reported interest in a reunion with Jayden Daniels in Washington, where the receiver could land if the deal goes through.
Kyler Murray
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Arizona guaranteed Kyler Murray $36.8 million in 2026, with another $19.5 million locking in if he’s on the roster shortly after the league year opens. This creates pressure to decide quickly. He struggled before his foot injury, and Jacoby Brissett has handled the offense more effectively. The Cardinals may need to pay part of his deal to move him.
A.J. Brown
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Owing $29 million guaranteed in 2026, A.J. Brown remains a costly piece of the Eagles’ roster. He’s produced 699 receiving yards and six touchdowns this season, but financial pressure could shape his future. Trading him triggers $43.5 million in dead money, while releasing him would cost nearly $72.5 million.
Marlon Humphrey
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Baltimore must decide on Marlon Humphrey before his $4 million roster bonus becomes active five days into the 2026 league year. His base salary is $19.25 million, with no guarantees remaining. Humphrey has five pass breakups and one interception this season. The Ravens have invested in younger defensive backs over the past few drafts.
Jawaan Taylor
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Since signing a four-year, $80 million deal in 2023, Jawaan Taylor has started every game for Kansas City. He’s also committed 49 penalties in 45 games, the most in the league during that span. His 2026 salary is $20 million, none of it guaranteed. Releasing him would result in the team incurring $7.4 million in dead money.
Tyler Linderbaum
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Contract talks between the Ravens and Tyler Linderbaum have not yet been resolved, which leaves his future uncertain heading into 2026. Baltimore declined his fifth-year option, which saved money upfront but increased the cost of a franchise tag, now projected to be near $27 million. Linderbaum ranks second among centers in pass block win rate since 2022 and continues to perform at a high level.
Trevon Diggs
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As of now, Trevon Diggs has three years and $57 million remaining on his contract, with nothing guaranteed. He hasn’t played a full season since 2022 and is still recovering from injury. On the other hand, Rookie Shavon Revel Jr. adds depth and gives the Cowboys options.
Sam Darnold
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If Sam Darnold continues to be on Seattle’s roster five days after the Super Bowl, $17.5 million of his 2026 salary becomes guaranteed. The deadline has created a narrow window for the Seahawks to evaluate their options. Darnold has played well this season and posted a top-10 QBR while completing over 68 per cent of his passes.
Cole Kmet
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A two-year deal worth $10 million annually keeps Cole Kmet under contract through 2026, but none of that money is guaranteed. Chicago would incur just a $3.2 million dead cap hit if they decide to move on. Rookie Colston Loveland, taken 10th overall, continues to gain a larger role in the offense.
Myles Garrett
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By expressing frustration with Cleveland’s continued struggles, Myles Garrett has made his dissatisfaction clear despite another dominant season. He’s just 3.5 sacks shy of the single-season record and continues to be one of the league’s most productive pass rushers. The Browns have only reached the playoffs twice during their nine-year career.