Major NFL Moves Expected as June 1 Deadline Approaches

The June 1 deadline is a pivotal moment in the NFL calendar, as teams can classify player transactions as “post-June 1.” This allows them to distribute dead-cap money over two seasons instead of one, creating financial flexibility for roster changes. With this date looming, franchises are poised for significant moves that could reshape their teams.

On Sunday, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler provided insights into three key players: A.J. Brown of the Philadelphia Eagles, Brandon Aiyuk of the San Francisco 49ers, and Alvin Kamara of the New Orleans Saints. While executives regard Aiyuk as “untradeable,” Kamara's situation remains stagnant, and discussions about Brown potentially moving to the New England Patriots are gaining momentum.

One of the boldest predictions is that A.J. Brown will be traded to the Patriots on June 1. Adam Schefter has indicated that New England is the “lead contender,” with a deal reportedly in the works. The Eagles are seeking a first-round pick, but negotiations continue as both sides attempt to reach an agreement. With Brown’s $40 million cap hit for 2026 being manageable post-June 1, his departure seems imminent, especially as Philadelphia has already bolstered its receiving corps.

Another prediction involves the 49ers cutting Aiyuk, leading to a potential signing by the Las Vegas Raiders. Rival executives believe Aiyuk is effectively off the market due to his injury history and financial complications. However, cutting him post-June 1 would free up approximately $20 million in cap space for San Francisco, prompting the Raiders to swoop in for a player who could be a bargain.

Meanwhile, Alvin Kamara appears likely to remain with the Saints, where he could form a formidable backfield duo with Travis Etienne. Despite limited interest, Kamara has expressed his satisfaction with the team’s recent changes and is expected to restructure his contract, enhancing New Orleans’ offensive capabilities.

Additionally, the Chicago Bears might trade tight end Cole Kmet to the Kansas City Chiefs for a third-round pick. With Kmet's role diminished following the Bears’ recent draft, this move would help Kansas City address its tight end needs as Travis Kelce nears retirement. Lastly, the Baltimore Ravens may deal Marlon Humphrey to the New York Giants, where he would reunite with former coach John Harbaugh. This move could save Baltimore significant cap space while providing the Giants with a much-needed veteran presence in their secondary.