The Biggest Loose Ends of the NFL Offseason

Key Points:

• The NFL offseason remains active with teams signing free agents and preparing for June 1, when dead cap penalties decrease, prompting more roster moves ahead of training camp.
• The Philadelphia Eagles plan to trade wide receiver A.J. Brown after June 1 to reduce dead cap space, but trade talks have stalled, with the New England Patriots as the primary interested team; Brown's value is questioned due to knee issues and a shifting offensive scheme.
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield is entering a contract year, with the team looking to negotiate a new deal to avoid a large dead cap penalty, potentially making him one of the highest-paid QBs despite a mixed 2025 season.
• The Detroit Lions face challenging contract extension negotiations with their 2023 draft class, including key players Jahmyr Gibbs and Jack Campbell, amid salary cap constraints caused by recent big contracts for other young stars.
• The Kansas City Chiefs continue to struggle to replace Tyreek Hill's explosive receiving ability, with limited options on their roster and potential trade targets like A.J. Brown or free agents like Stefon Diggs, as the offense under Patrick Mahomes seeks a much-needed boost.