NFL Offseason Shake-Up: 10 Veterans Who Might Be on the Move

Introduction

As the dust settles on the regular NFL season, teams are turning their focus to bigger questions about roster composition and future moves. It's fascinating to speculate on which veterans might be on their way out, whether due to performance, contracts, or coaching changes. This year's crop of potential trade candidates includes some big names and unexpected faces — here's why you should pay attention.

Analyzing the Landscape

We're entering an offseason riddled with uncertainty for many teams. From salary cap implications to the demands of player performance, countless factors could lead to surprising cuts and trades. The saga revolves around key figures who can either be pivotal to a team's success or burdensome financial liabilities. Let's break down ten veterans who epitomize that duality.

1. A.J. Brown, WR, Philadelphia Eagles

The 2025 season has had its ups and downs for A.J. Brown. Speculation about his future in Philadelphia has reached new heights amid a challenging year. His turbulent relationship with the Eagles could lead to an unexpected trade. With a steep $29 million guaranteed for 2026, a move seems unlikely, yet if dissatisfaction persists, we could see a shift. The team would face hefty dead cap charges, but sometimes a fresh start is necessary.

2. Kyler Murray, QB, Arizona Cardinals

Kyler Murray's tenure with the Cardinals hangs in a precarious balance. After struggling on the field, and with a hefty contract weighing $36.8 million in guaranteed salaries for 2026, the organization might have no choice but to move on — either via trade or release. His recent performance has left many questioning whether his abilities can lift a struggling franchise. Yet, in a league defined by second chances, could another team see potential in Murray?

3. Marlon Humphrey, CB, Baltimore Ravens

As one of the NFL's premier cornerbacks, Marlon Humphrey has carved out his reputation in Baltimore. However, with a $19.25 million remaining contract and a desire from the Ravens to invest more in youth, Humphrey's future could be marred by the realities of cap management. Staying competitive often means making tough decisions on long-tenured veterans.

4. Brandon Aiyuk, WR, San Francisco 49ers

Aiyuk has been the subject of trade rumors, particularly given the Niners voiding guarantees in his contract. With prior ties to Washington and a desire to reunite with Jayden Daniels, a trade could initiate a fresh chapter. However, the financial implications of such a move will be paramount as well — releasing Aiyuk could invoke substantial dead cap charges.

5. Sam Darnold, QB, Seattle Seahawks

Darnold has revitalized his career in Seattle, but the Seahawks' policy regarding non-guaranteed contracts presents a challenge. If he remains beyond a pivotal date in February, a substantial salary becomes guaranteed. If he's not the long-term solution, the Seahawks are in a position to cut ties with minimal financial impact, especially for a player whose trajectory has improved significantly this season.

6. Jawaan Taylor, OT, Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs' investment in Taylor was significant, yet his high penalty count raises eyebrows. With a non-guaranteed money element left on his contract, moving on from Taylor without incurring enormous dead cap charges is a viable option. Could this be the end of his run as their right tackle?

7. Tyler Linderbaum, C, Baltimore Ravens

Linderbaum's development has been impressive, but failing to pick up his fifth-year option might haunt the Ravens. His potential unrestricted free agency status raises questions about how much the team is willing to invest. Will Linderbaum demand a contract reflective of his rapid ascent among centers, or will the Ravens look elsewhere?

8. Cole Kmet, TE, Chicago Bears

Despite being a contributing member of Chicago's offense, fresh draft investment could influence Kmet's stay. None of his remaining contract is guaranteed, and his position may feel the brunt of impending cuts as the Bears strive for salary relief. After all, business is business in the NFL.

9. DK Metcalf, WR, Seattle Seahawks

We can't overlook Metcalf, despite his current contract stability. His physical gifts and highlight-reel plays still make him an enticing asset for many teams. However, could the Seahawks favor younger talents over the big need for their offensive prowess moving forward?

10. Myles Garrett, DE, Cleveland Browns

Lastly, the ever-dominant Myles Garrett is hardly sitting comfortably, even with a lucrative contract. The dismal performance of the Browns at 3-9 raises eyebrows about his future. Will he be the player who demands a trade to escape the continuous cycle of losing, or is he committed to making the franchise competitive?

Conclusion

The NFL offseason promises to be filled with unpredictable narratives as teams reevaluate their rosters. For fans, the excitement stems not just from the prospective new faces on their squads but also the farewell of established players who added to the rich history of their franchises. As we gear up, the discussions around these names must continue; the landscape of football evolves constantly, and the stories of these veterans remain intricately woven into the fabric of the league they helped shape.