June 1 NFL Moves and Predictions

Every NFL team and its fans mark June 1 as significant. This date lets teams make player moves labeled ‘post-June 1,’ allowing dead-cap money to be allocated over two seasons. Moves that were previously financially challenging become feasible from June 2. This change offers teams substantial cap relief, leading to several roster changes across the league.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler provided new insights into three notable situations involving the Philadelphia Eagles’ A.J. Brown, San Francisco 49ers’ Brandon Aiyuk, and New Orleans Saints’ Alvin Kamara. Aiyuk is viewed as ‘untradeable’ by rival executives. Kamara’s situation remains unchanged. Meanwhile, there’s a suggested framework for A.J. Brown’s transaction to New England.

1. A.J. Brown’s Potential Move to the Patriots

The New England Patriots are reportedly the leading contenders for acquiring A.J. Brown. Adam Schefter has cited New England as the ‘lead contender’ for Brown. Both sides are discussing compensation; the Eagles want a first-round pick, while New England hesitates. Brown’s $40 million cap hit for 2026 can be split across two seasons if traded after June 1. The Eagles have acquired new wide receivers, signaling Brown’s likely move soon, potentially on June 1.

2. 49ers Plan to Cut Aiyuk; Raiders May Benefit

Aiyuk’s situation with the 49ers involves financial complications and injury concerns. San Francisco could save about $20 million by cutting him post-June 1. The Las Vegas Raiders, having drafted quarterback Fernando Mendoza, are in need of a top wide receiver. Aiyuk’s previous financial commitments are void, making his signing low-cost and high-reward for the Raiders.

3. Kamara Might Resign with the Saints

Discussion around Kamara’s future suggests he might stay with the Saints. Travis Etienne’s recent signing with New Orleans complements Kamara’s playing style. The Saints plan to restructure Kamara’s $10.4 million contract post-June 1. Together with Etienne, Kamara would form an effective backfield, similar to Seattle’s successful duo Walker and Charbonnet.

4. Cole Kmet’s Trade to the Chiefs

With the draft of Stanford’s Sam Roush, the Bears have an overcrowded tight end group. Trading Cole Kmet after June 1 saves Chicago around $1.4 million. The Kansas City Chiefs, with tight end needs and Travis Kelce nearing retirement, are interested. A potential trade could see the Chiefs offer a third-round pick for Kmet, who has significant catching and blocking experience.

5. Ravens Consider Moving Marlon Humphrey

The Baltimore Ravens are focusing on younger talent in their secondary. Marlon Humphrey, with a $26.3 million cap hit, could be traded post-June 1, saving the Ravens approximately $15.3 million. The New York Giants, coached by John Harbaugh who previously worked with Humphrey, might find a good fit. Humphrey’s experience could greatly enhance the Giants’ secondary.