NFL 2026 Roster Cuts: James Conner, Geno Smith Among 32 Team Candidates

The NFL offseason is approaching, signaling a critical time for teams to make roster changes. As teams finalize their plans ahead of free agency, several players face potential cuts due to salary cap considerations. Here are key candidates from all 32 franchises.

NFL 2026 Roster Cuts: Key Player Candidates

Arizona Cardinals

• James Conner – RB: $7.6M saved, $2.3M dead cap. At almost 32 years, Conner has struggled with injuries and is unlikely to remain on a rebuilding team.
• Kyler Murray – QB: $36.8M guaranteed for 2026. His situation remains complicated due to a hefty dead cap hit.

Atlanta Falcons

• Darnell Mooney – WR: $7.4M saved, $11M dead cap. His performance has declined significantly, making him a candidate for release.

Baltimore Ravens

• Broderick Washington – EDGE: $4M saved, $1.9M dead cap. After missing most of the previous season due to an Achilles injury, he may be released.

Buffalo Bills

• Dawson Knox – TE: $9.7M saved, $7.4M dead cap. His recent performance has not justified his contract.
• Curtis Samuel – WR: $6.1M saved, $3.5M dead cap. His limited contributions make him a candidate for cuts.

Carolina Panthers

• Patrick Jones II – EDGE: $4.8M saved, $5.4M dead cap. His injury history may lead to his departure.

Chicago Bears

• Cole Kmet – TE: $8.4M saved, $3.2M dead cap. The emergence of younger talent could push Kmet out of the roster.

Cincinnati Bengals

• Mike Gesicki – TE: $3.3M saved, $4.3M dead cap. His production has not met expectations, leading to potential cuts.

Cleveland Browns

• Cornelius Lucas – OT: $1.8M saved, $1.6M dead cap. His performance has not justified keeping him on the team.

Dallas Cowboys

• Kenny Clark – DT: $21.5M saved, $0M dead cap. His release may be considered due to his large cap hit.

Denver Broncos

• Evan Engram – TE: $3.8M saved, $10.3M dead cap. His signing has not worked out as planned.

Detroit Lions

• Graham Glasgow – OG: $5.6M saved, $2.9M dead cap. His subpar performance could lead Detroit to release him.

Green Bay Packers

• Rashan Gary – DT: $11M saved, $17M dead cap. High salary relative to performance may force a re-evaluation.

Houston Texans

• Joe Mixon – RB: $8M saved, $2M dead cap. After missing a full season, he is unlikely to return.

Indianapolis Colts

• Michael Pittman – WR: $24M saved, $5M dead cap. His inconsistent performance may prompt a release.

Jacksonville Jaguars

• DaVon Hamilton – DT: $1.9M saved, $10.6M dead cap. Limited performance has made him a candidate for release.

Kansas City Chiefs

• Jawaan Taylor – OT: $20M saved, $7.4M dead cap. His penalties could lead to a reconsideration of his place on the team.

Las Vegas Raiders

• Geno Smith – QB: $8M saved, $18.5M dead cap. While he could still provide mentorship, the cost might prompt a cut.

Miami Dolphins

• Tua Tagovailoa – QB: -$42.9M saved, $99.2M dead cap. Unlikely to be released, but potential trade discussions may arise.

New England Patriots

• Anfernee Jennings – EDGE: $3.9M saved, $1M dead cap. His underwhelming performance may lead to his release.

New York Giants

• Devin Singletary – RB: $5.3M saved, $1.3M dead cap. His role diminished significantly, making him a likely candidate to be cut.

Philadelphia Eagles

• Michael Carter – CB: $8.7M saved, $1.4M dead cap. Could be cut as he has underperformed since joining the team.

Pittsburgh Steelers

• Jonnu Smith – TE: $7M saved, $3.4M dead cap. Potentially let go due to low production.

San Francisco 49ers

• Brandon Aiyuk – WR: Complicated situation. Aiyuk’s contract voiding could lead to his release, despite being an impactful player.

Seattle Seahawks

• Jason Myers – K: $5.1M saved, $1.9M dead cap. Although he performed well in playoffs, inconsistency may lead to cuts.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

• Anthony Nelson – LB: $1.9M saved, $3.5M dead cap. Limited starting opportunities could lead to his release.

Tennessee Titans

• Calvin Ridley – WR: $22.3M saved, $5M dead cap. His disappointing season diminishes his chances of staying on the roster.

Washington Commanders

• Marshon Lattimore – CB: $18.5M saved, $0M dead cap. His struggles in coverage may lead to his removal.

The 2026 offseason will be pivotal for NFL teams. Roster cuts, driven by salary cap needs, will lead to significant changes across the league.