Every NFL team tracks June 1 closely. It’s when teams can label player moves as ‘post-June 1,’ splitting dead-cap money over two seasons rather than one. Transactions that seemed impossible become feasible. This change in financial strategy can provide tens of millions in cap relief, prompting a significant number of team roster adjustments. Recent intel from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler sheds light on three crucial situations involving Philadelphia Eagles’ A.J. Brown, San Francisco 49ers’ Brandon Aiyuk, and New Orleans Saints’ Alvin Kamara. Executives see Aiyuk as ‘untradeable.’ Kamara’s status remains unchanged. Meanwhile, plans for A.J. Brown to join the New England Patriots appear set.
This could be one of the busiest June 1 periods in recent history. Below are five bold predictions for player moves:
A.J. Brown Trade to the Patriots Expected on June 1
All indications point to Brown heading to Foxborough. Adam Schefter named the New England Patriots as the ‘lead contender,’ while Albert Breer mentioned a ‘framework is in place’ for an early-week deal. The main issue is compensation. The Eagles desire a first-round pick, while New England hesitates. On June 1, Brown’s $40 million cap hit for 2026 can be divided over two seasons through a trade. The Eagles have already secured several receivers, suggesting a move forward. New England, with cap space, is likely to seal the deal on Monday.
49ers May Cut Aiyuk — Raiders Poised to Act
Fowler reported that Aiyuk is seen as ‘untradeable’ by other executives. His injuries and financial issues limit his market. A post-June 1 cut could save the 49ers around $20 million in cap space. The Las Vegas Raiders could make a move. With Heisman-winning QB Fernando Mendoza, the Raiders need a top receiver. Kirk Cousins serves as a bridge, but Mendoza requires more support. With Aiyuk’s contract risks diminished, he might sign with Las Vegas for much less.
Kamara Likely to Re-Sign with the Saints
Kamara’s situation shows ‘limited traction,’ though his interest in staying is clear. He shared positive sentiments about his situation on Terron Armstead’s podcast. With Travis Etienne’s recent four-year, $52 million agreement, Kamara has expressed happiness with their backfield. Post-June 1, the Saints will likely restructure Kamara’s $10.4 million contract. Together, Kamara and Etienne could become the league’s most formidable backfield duo.
Possible Trade of Cole Kmet to the Chiefs
The Chicago Bears selected Stanford TE Sam Roush, making Kmet, already below Colston Loveland, seem redundant. They’re expected to clear space by trading Kmet post-June 1, saving around $1.4 million. The Kansas City Chiefs seek a tight end. Travis Kelce nears retirement, and no replacements were drafted. A framework suggested by Ben Solak implies a third-round pick for Kmet and a fifth. Kmet’s skills offer a potential Kelce successor for the Chiefs.
Ravens Likely to Trade Marlon Humphrey to the Giants
Marlon Humphrey, long associated with coach John Harbaugh, may join him in New York. The Ravens focus on younger secondary players, making Humphrey’s $26.3 million cap hit a concern. Trading him post-June 1 results in $15.3 million cap savings. For the Giants, adding Humphrey provides essential expertise and competence to strengthen their secondary. The transition benefits both Humphrey and New York, revitalizing the team’s defense while Baltimore improves fiscal flexibility.
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