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Release Candidate: Kendrick Bourne

June 25th, 2025 at 7:40pm CST by Ely Allen

It wasn’t too long ago that Kendrick Bourne was one of the top-performing receivers on the Patriots in his first season in New England for a rookie Pro Bowl quarterback in Mac Jones helping the team reach the playoffs for the first time since Tom Brady left. Things have gotten a bit darker in New England since those days, and there’s a chance things could get even darker for Bourne.

Bourne arrived in New England coming off of an average first four years in San Francisco, though for an undrafted player, those four years were pretty impressive. He averaged about 44 catches for 442 yards and 3 touchdowns over that time. After losing veteran Julian Edelman to retirement and Damiere Byrd to free agency, the Patriots were looking to free agent signings like Bourne and Nelson Agholor to work with Jakobi Meyers and a struggling N’Keal Harry.

Coming off then-career highs in catches (49) and receiving yards (667), Bourne had a true breakout season in New England, setting new career highs in catches (55) and receiving yards (800) while matching his career high in touchdowns (5). Despite Aghlolor’s average annual salary ($13MM) more than doubling his ($5MM), Bourne proved to be a clear WR2 behind Meyers that year.

Unfortunately, as the production of Jones and the team’s other passers fell, Bourne’s did, too. It didn’t help that a veteran addition in DeVante Parker arrived and surpassed him and Agholor on the depth chart, demoting him to WR3. What’s worse, a promising contract year in 2023, one that saw him emerging as WR1 over Parker, a rookie Demario Douglas, JuJu Smith-Schuster, and others, came to a premature end when Bourne tore his ACL in Week 8.

The Patriots made a respectable move in the following offseason, re-signing Bourne to a new three-year deal with a slight raise despite the fact that he was going to be coming back from the season-ending injury. On his new deal, he missed the first four games of the season and took a couple of weeks to get going, but when he finally got back to the field, it had become clear that he had fallen behind youngsters Douglas and Kayshon Boutte on the depth chart.

In fact, the writing on the wall that Bourne might not have a place in New England anymore was so clear that a number of teams had discussions before the trade deadline of acquiring Bourne. The Patriots, though, held onto the veteran for the remainder of the season. Then, in the offseason, the team signed a huge free agent in veteran wideout Stefon Diggs and another veteran in Mack Hollins. Additionally, the Patriots drafted Kyle Williams in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

At this point, Bourne is sitting at WR5, maybe WR6. Diggs, Douglas, and Boutte are likely comfortably ahead of him on the depth chart, while Williams could easily be, as well, if he lives up to his draft stock. That leaves Bourne competing with Hollins for the honors of being the fifth or sixth receiver on the depth chart.

While that’s not disqualifying by itself, the fact that Bourne carries cap hits of $7.7MM and $7.9MM over the next two years makes it a lot harder to keep him on the roster if he’s not going to be contributing as a starter. Luckily for New England, Bourne’s second contract with the team included a potential out after the 2024 season. With this escape hatch, the Patriots can release Bourne with only $2.8MM of dead cap split evenly over the next two years, while giving the team $12.8MM of cap savings over that time.

It’s a little late to try and trade him at this point in time, and there’s always a chance that Bourne proves himself by moving up the depth chart. In reality, though, the amount of new competition for snaps coupled with the significant cap impact he holds over the rest of his contract puts Bourne in an unenviable position. He many need to have the camp of his life in order to keep from being a cap casualty in the next few months.

PFR Originals: Steelers, Wilson, WRs, Linderbaum, Browns

June 23rd, 2025 at 9:55am CST by Adam La Rose

Here is a rundown of PFR’s recent originals:

  • Reviewing Steelers’ QB Moves: The post-Ben Roethlisberger era has not gone according to plan for the Steelers. I looked back at each of the six quarterbacks who have started games for them between Roethlisberger’s retirement and the expected Aaron Rodgers signing. The latter is only in place for 2025, and regardless of how he fares Pittsburgh will be tasked with finding a long-term solution next offseason.
  • Previewing Fifth–Year Option Seasons: A number of high-profile members of the 2021 draft class have established themselves as stars and have received lucrative extensions as a result. Others are still in place with their respective teams but face an uncertain future beyond the coming season. Sam Robinson broke down each of the nine players currently set to play on their fifth-year option in 2025. That list includes the likes of Micah Parsons (Cowboys) and Rashawn Slater (Chargers) who have discussed big-ticket deals this spring and could wind up at or near the top of their respective markets.
  • Looking Into Wilson Extension: The new Jets regime has a number of notable decisions to make regarding extensions for the team’s young core. One of those pertains to wideout Garrett Wilson, who is eligible for a long-term deal for the first time in his career. Nikhil Mehta took a look into a potential Wilson contract, one which could carry an annual average value of $30MM or more. The Jets also have a massive Sauce Gardner extension to work out, but locking up Wilson for the foreseeable future would represent a key feat as well.
  • Evaluating WR Trades: Four veteran receivers have been traded this offseason, with three of those moves marking the first time in the player’s career they joined a new team. I polled PFR’s readers about which of the swaps – Deebo Samuel to the Commanders, Christian Kirk to the Texans, D.K. Metcalf to the Steelers and George Pickens to the Cowboys – will prove most beneficial. In each case but Metcalf’s, this year’s trades represented a rental agreement. Opinions were split, with three different options receiving at least 26% of the vote.
  • Tracking Traded 2026 Picks: On the topic of trades, several swaps affecting picks in next year’s draft have already taken place. Sam listed each selection which has changed hands with several months remaining before the April 2026 event. That includes the Jaguars’ and Falcons’ first-rounders, which now respectively belong to the Browns and Rams.
  • Detailing Linderbaum’s Extension Candidacy: The Ravens made the expected move of picking up safety Kyle Hamilton‘s 2026 fifth-year option, but they declined to do the same with center Tyler Linderbaum. The latter is thus a pending free agent at the moment, and Nikhil investigated an extension in his case. Linderbaum, 25, is already a two-time Pro Bowler and a long-term deal can be expected to bring him to (or at least near) the top of the position’s financial pecking order.
  • Exploring Harris, Okoronkwo Cuts: With training camp not far away, roster cuts will become a main talking point around the league relatively soon. In the case of the Browns, that could see one or both of defensive tackle Shelby Harris or edge rusher Ogbo Okoronkw fail to make the team. I broke down the financial impact of a release in both cases, something which Cleveland will of course take into account when evaluating the final year of both veterans’ deals.

Examining Steelers’ Post-Ben Roethlisberger Quarterbacks

June 22nd, 2025 at 10:19pm CST by Adam La Rose

For 18 years, the Steelers enjoyed stability at the quarterback spot with Ben Roethlisberger in place. The Super Bowl winner’s retirement after the 2021 campaign came as no surprise at the time, but it left the team in need of a long-term successor.

That still represents a notable vacancy beyond 2025 given Aaron Rodgers’ age. The 41-year-old expectedly took a one-year deal to head to Pittsburgh, and he will aim to provide the team with a high floor under center compared to his predecessors. As of next offseason, though, another effort will need to be made to find a signal-caller capable of holding down the starter’s role over an extended period and competing with the AFC’s top offenses.

Prior to the Rodgers signing, the Steelers took a number of paths in their attempts to find a genuine Roethlisberger successor. An examination of the quarterbacks who have been used since 2022 and their success (or, to an extent, lack thereof) in Pittsburgh helps explain the team’s willingness to bring in Rodgers under unusual circumstances.

Mason Rudolph (2018-23; 2025)

After not seeing the field as a rookie, Rudolph took part in a sustained run of action in place of an injured Roethlisberger in 2019. The Oklahoma State product won five of his eight starts, but he put up pedestrian numbers along the way. Backup duties were again his purview through the next three years.

Playing on a pair of short-term deals, Rudolph became a familiar face on offense during his time in Pittsburgh. He only managed 13 starts across his first stint with the franchise, however, and the team’s moves following Roethlisberger’s retirement have illustrated the extent to which Rudolph is not viewed as a long-term QB1 option. The 29-year-old departed in free agency last spring.

Taking a one-year deal with the Titans, Rudolph found himself in and out of the lineup in 2024. Will Levis struggled to develop as the team hoped, and poor play along with injuries opened the door for Rudolph to see time atop the depth chart. The latter posted a new career high in passing yards per game (191) but he threw as many interceptions (nine) as touchdowns.

With Tennessee looking to find a new franchise passer via the No. 1 pick in April’s draft, Rudolph found himself on the move again. His return to Pittsburgh came with a warning of sorts from the team regarding the pursuit of a more established starter for 2025. A long wait ensued with the Rodgers deal taking until just before minicamp, but through the spring Rudolph sat atop the depth chart. Head coach Mike Tomlin publicly endorsed him as a starting option, but any first-team action in 2025 will come as an injury replacement.

Under contract for the next two years, Rudolph’s second Steelers stint will cover not only the Rodgers experiment but also the early development of sixth-round rookie Will Howard. He will operate as a familiar face (albeit not for offensive coordinator Arthur Smith) if and when given the opportunity to play this season before likely seeing another high draft investment made in the 2026 draft.

Devlin Hodges (2019)

A former undrafted free agent, Hodges wound up seeing a somewhat notable run during his one and only year of regular season NFL game action. The Samford product made a total of six starts, including each of the final five that year. The Steelers went .500 during his time at the helm, and Hodges avoided many turnovers in games Pittsburgh won. A three-game losing streak ensued to close out the campaign, however, and he threw six interceptions during that spell.

Hodges did not play his way into an extended tenure in Pittsburgh. He did manage to remain in the organization through the 2020 season, but that spell came about on the Steelers’ practice squad. The 29-year-old then landed a futures deal with the Rams in 2021, but he did not survive roster cuts.

Upon seeing his time in the NFL come to an end, Hodges made a brief attempt to continue his career north of the border. The 2022 campaign saw him make a total of four appearances in the CFL, but things did not go as planned on that front. Hodges retired in April of that year.

Mitch Trubisky (2022-23)

After his Bears tenure came to an end, the former No. 2 pick spent a single season handling backup duties with the Bills. Trubisky then joined the Steelers as their short-term starter (in anticipation of a more permanent option being drafted). Indeed, the first four weeks saw him occupy the top of the depth chart before the decision was made to move in another direction. Trubisky made another two starts but totaled just four touchdown passes on the year while putting up other numbers similar with his career averages.

Upon signing a two-year extension, Trubisky remained in the fold but was less involved in Pittsburgh’s QB setup. The 30-year-old started two of his five appearances and was again unable to deliver a strong statistical impact. To no surprise, then, questions were raised about his tenure with the Steelers.

Last offseason, Pittsburgh proceeded with a full housecleaning under center. That effort included moving on from Trubisky with one year left on his deal. The North Carolina product finalized his next deal in short order by returning to the familiar role of QB2 in Buffalo. Options such as Trubisky are of course available every offseason, but especially with Rudolph back in place for 2025 and ’26 (along with Howard for the next four years) other high-floor, low-ceiling signings should not be expected in the near future.

Kenny Pickett (2022-23)

The 2022 draft class was widely considered an underwhelming one, but Pickett was long seen as the most pro-ready option for interested teams. The Steelers – more familiar with the Pitt product than most – were certainly among them, and it came as no surprise when they selected him 20th overall. 24 at the time his rookie campaign began, Pickett entered the league with high expectations in terms of being able to contribute right away and guide a team featuring a top-10 scoring defense to success.

Upon taking over QB1 duties from Trubisky, Pickett led three fourth quarter comebacks. A four-game winning streak to close out season was not enough for a playoff berth, however, and a 76.7 passer rating was one of several underwhelming individual statistics. Still, Pickett showed enough potential to begin the following season atop the depth chart.

In 2023, though, things did not develop as hoped. Pickett averaged just 173 passing yards per game while posting a 6:4 touchdown-to-interception ratio in 12 games. Limitations within Matt Canada’s offense were partially to blame, but after returning to full health from a sprained ankle Pickett found himself benched in favor of Rudolph. The latter handled starting duties down the stretch and during Pittsburgh’s wild-card loss.

With the Steelers eyeing competition for Pickett (at first) last offseason, the free agent signing of Russell Wilson made it clear the team was heading in another direction at the QB spot. Pickett requested to be dealt, and that did wind up taking place with his trade to the Eagles. Following one year as Jalen Hurts’ backup, the Super Bowl winner is now in a four-way QB competition in Cleveland.

A pending 2026 free agent, Pickett’s future remains highly uncertain. His career has certainly not gone as planned so far, and the Steelers’ decision to move on from him after only two years illustrates the risk associated with high draft investments (particularly in quarterback classes such as his).

Russell Wilson (2024)

Through the 2023 campaign, signs pointed to a parting of ways between Wilson and the Broncos. Denver did indeed proceed with a release despite the move generating an $85MM dead money hit. Before Wilson officially became a free agent, he was free to speak with interested teams. The Steelers were among them, and a one-year deal taking advantage of the offset money from his Broncos pact was arranged.

Wilson spent the offseason in pole position for the starting gig, but a calf injury suffered late in training camp left him sidelined through the first six weeks of the campaign. Immediately upon returning to full health, though, Tomlin installed him as the team’s No. 1 in a move which was not unanimous. At first, the decision proved to be a sound one with the Steelers reaching a mark of 10-3.

That positive start to the season was met with a four-game losing streak followed by a lopsided wild-card loss. Wilson and the offense were not exclusively responsible for the struggles late in the year, but changes were seen as necessary to improve for 2025. At 36, Wilson would not have represented a long-term investment under center even if he had been retained.

As Pittsburgh looked elsewhere to find an internal or external starter, Wilson turned his attention to a few potential destinations. One of those was New York, and after visiting the Giants last offseason the Super Bowl winner joined them this time around. First-round rookie Jaxson Dart looms as a replacement as early as this season, but for now Wilson is set to operate as the starter on his fourth career team.

Justin Fields (2024)

Shortly after the Wilson signing, Fields found himself on the move from Chicago to Pittsburgh. The former No. 20 pick’s time with the Bears was known to be coming to an end once the team committed to selecting Caleb Williams first overall in the 2024 draft. As intended, general manager Ryan Poles sent Fields to the Steelers based on the chance that move provided for him to earn a starting spot.

Wilson’s calf issue opened the door to Fields leading the offense through the first six games of the campaign. Pittsburgh went 4-2 over that span, and his accuracy when at the helm (65.8% completion percentage) was by far the highest of his career. A 5:1 touchdown-to-interception ratio indicated at least incremental progress had been made compared to his Bears tenure. Fields added five rushing touchdowns in a demonstration of his dual-threat skillset.

Wilson’s return to health prevented Fields from being able to regain an opportunity in the QB1 spot. The latter being benched by Tomlin was a factor in his free agent decision. A number of suitors emerged for Fields, who wound up taking a two-year deal with the Jets containing $30MM in guarantees. Pittsburgh was interested in retaining the Ohio State product, even reportedly preferring him to a short-term Rodgers signing.

In the end, Fields will look to find long-term stability with the Jets. The 26-year-old would have represented a far younger option to most others available to Pittsburgh this year, but the team will count (for the immediate future at least) on Rodgers managing to remain healthy and return to an extent to his previous form. Fields’ $20MM AAV ranks 20th in the NFL amongst signal-callers, so it will be interesting to see if a similar investment on the Steelers’ part will prove to have been worthwhile in the long run.

Altogether, the sextet of Steelers passers between Roethlisberger and Rodgers posted a record of 37-31-1 between the regular and postseason. As the team looks to end its drought regarding playoff wins – which dates back to 2016 – even an incremental upgrade in play under center could be key. Provided Rodgers takes the field in Week 1, he will become Pittsburgh’s sixth different starter in a span of only 24 games dating back to December 2023 (h/t Chris Adamski of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review).

Regardless of how things play out this season, selecting another new quarterback high in next year’s draft (as hosts) will be a Steelers priority. The outcome of the team’s most recent moves at the position demonstrate the consequences of being unable to find a long-term answer.

Checking In On 2025 Fifth-Year Option Performers

June 21st, 2025 at 10:15pm CST by Sam Robinson

The 2021 draft class has produced some of the NFL’s best players. Patrick Surtain claimed Defensive Player of the Year acclaim, after signing a monster extension that reset the cornerback market, and Ja’Marr Chase posted a triple-crown campaign that ended up pushing the wide receiver market past $40MM per year. Penei Sewell remains the NFL’s highest-paid tackle, and the DeVonta Smith/Jaylen Waddle deals helped shape other WR contracts over the past year.

Several players from that first round also did not pan out, with the quarterback crop being the most notable underachievers. Only Trevor Lawrence received an extension among the five 2021 first-round passers, though Justin Fields did do fairly well as a free agent this offseason. The 2021 first-round class did see 15 options exercised (and three players extended; Rashod Bateman has already been extended twice), marking a bump from the 2020 first-round contingent.

Nine players from that first round, however, exited this year’s offseason programs still tied to their rookie deals. Even though the 2020 CBA helped players on this front by making fifth-year options fully guaranteed, it can still be argued the options do first-rounders a disservice due to teams having five years of player control compared to four on deals ranging from Round 2 to Round 7. But the option system — now in its 15th year — is not going anywhere. And more than a fourth of the NFL’s franchises are moving toward training camp with big decisions to make.

Here is a look at where things stand between those teams and the batch of 2021 first-rounders on fifth-year options:

Kyle Pitts, TE (Falcons); option salary: $10.88MM

Flashes of upper-crust tight end play have emerged for Pitts, but Terry Fontenot leaving Chase on the board — months before the Falcons traded Julio Jones — was obviously a mistake. Pitts joined Mike Ditka (and now Brock Bowers) as the only rookie-year tight ends to clear 1,000 yards; the Florida product has not approached that range since. While Pitts has played 17 games in each of the past two seasons, the MCL injury he sustained in 2022 brought a hurdle that became difficult to negotiate. QB play has hurt Pitts, but the Falcons have not seen him justify the No. 4 overall investment. A contract-year uptick certainly could provide a gateway to a big 2026 free agency payday, however.

No Falcons extension rumors have surfaced this offseason, but Pitts has been the subject of trade talk. The Falcons are believed to have listened on Pitts earlier this offseason. A Day 2 pick was believed to be the desired asking price for the 24-year-old pass catcher. Barring a trade, Pitts will be counted on to help Michael Penix Jr.‘s development, alongside fellow Fontenot top-10 skill-position draftees Drake London and Bijan Robinson. Pitts’ age still points to a big-ticket 2026 deal being a reasonable outcome; he can remove notions of a “prove it” contract being necessary with a quality contract year.

Micah Parsons, DE (Cowboys); option salary: $24MM

In NFC East drama, the Cowboys traded the No. 10 overall pick to the Eagles, as Philly’s plan to outflank the Giants on Smith worked. Dallas won the prize here, landing Parsons at 12. Although Surtain has received the top honor among this draft class and Chase has become the highest-paid player, Parsons is also one of the NFL’s best players. He will be paid like it, and the Cowboys are operating on an eerily similar timeline compared to their slow-playing of other recent extensions.

A three-time All-Pro, Parsons is the best player still attached to a fifth-year option. And the EDGE market has changed significantly this offseason. Parsons, 26, confirmed the Cowboys’ latest delay will prove costly. A strange subplot between Jerry Jones and Parsons’ agent (David Mulugheta) also became known during these drawn-out negotiations. The former No. 12 overall pick has expected to become the NFL’s highest-paid defender, and it seems likely he will eclipse Chase’s $40.25MM-per-year deal as well. The Cowboys, whose slow-paced dealings with Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb defined their 2024 offseason, have been in talks with Parsons.

Even after a value gap was revealed, a report of common ground surfaced. A franchise that accustomed to — prior to the Lamb and Prescott deals, that is — long-term contracts also looks to have hit a term-length snag here. Trade rumors came out here months ago, but nothing on that front has surfaced in a while.

After Maxx Crosby eclipsed Nick Bosa‘s defender AAV record, Danielle Hunter cleared $35MM (albeit on a one-year bump) as well. Myles Garrett‘s $40MM-per-year accord now sets the market, and T.J. Watt and Aidan Hutchinson should benefit. Parsons having waited boosts his prospects as well, and being nearly four years younger than Garrett will present a clear case for the Penn State alum’s second contract to come in noticeably higher. When will the Cowboys complete their latest arduous contractual journey?

Rashawn Slater, LT (Chargers); option salary: $19MM

The Bolts did well to add Slater at No. 13. Like Parsons, not much doubt appears to exist about Slater’s prospects for a mega-deal. The Northwestern alum, who joined Parsons and Sewell in opting out of the 2020 COVID-19-marred college season, has started every game he has played with the Chargers. After missing 14 games due to injury in 2022, Slater bounced back and earned his second Pro Bowl nod (in 2024).

Last year brought extensions for Sewell, Christian Darrisaw (chosen 10 spots after Slater) and 2020 first-rounder Tristan Wirfs. Slater’s market will check in at a similar place. Extension talks began early this offseason, as the Jim Harbaugh–Joe Hortiz regime has now observed him for a season. Slater skipped OTAs but expects his second contract to come from the Chargers.

The period between minicamp and Week 1 regularly brings extensions, and this will be the most likely window for the Chargers to come to terms with their O-line anchor. Slater signing a second contract soon would allow it to overlap with at least two Joe Alt rookie-deal years, providing a benefit to an L.A. team with a $53MM-per-year Justin Herbert deal on the books.

Alijah Vera-Tucker, G (Jets); option salary: $15.31MM

After bouncing between guard and tackle, Vera-Tucker has settled at his natural position. The USC product, whom the Jets chose 14th overall in 2021, worked exclusively at right guard last year. Although the Jets faceplanted in Aaron Rodgers‘ only full season leading the charge, Vera-Tucker stayed healthy after suffering season-ending injuries in 2022 and ’23. Vera-Tucker started 15 games last year; Pro Football Focus graded him as the NFL’s ninth-best guard.

The Jets are believed to be eyeing the post-draft period to discuss a second contract with Vera-Tucker, though the team — its struggles notwithstanding — has several extension candidates. Even if Breece Hall may not be one of them, the Jets have 2022 first-rounders Sauce Gardner, Garrett Wilson and Jermaine Johnson extension-eligible now.

Vera-Tucker, who turned 26 this week, could take precedence due to being in a contract year. It is also possible a new Jets regime would want to see more given the guard’s injury struggles. Another quality year would make Vera-Tucker one of the top 2026 free agents, but the Jets hold exclusive negotiating rights until March 2026.

Jaelan Phillips, OLB (Dolphins); option salary: $13.25MM

While Vera-Tucker created some distance from his injury issues last season, Phillips sank deeper into that abyss by suffering an ACL tear after a November 2023 Achilles tear sent him off course. Chosen 18th overall in 2021, Phillips already carried injury baggage based on his UCLA past. He rocketed onto the first-round radar following a transfer to Miami, and the ex-Hurricane showed promise during the early years of his rookie contract. Phillips posted 25 QB hits and seven sacks in 2022 and was on pace to clear that career-high sack mark by a comfy margin in ’23, but the Dolphins soon saw injuries derail their edge rusher plan.

Phillips and Bradley Chubb‘s returns from malady-marred stretches represent a central Dolphins storyline. Their returns, which are nearly complete, will be paramount for a regime suddenly in some hot water. The GM who selected Phillips (Chris Grier) 18th overall remains in place, potentially helping the 26-year-old OLB in the event he can shake the injury trouble. But no extension rumors have emerged. This season will be about Phillips reestablishing his old form. If he does, a 2026 franchise tag or a lucrative deal coming in just south of that rate may await.

Kwity Paye, DE (Colts); option salary: $13.39MM

Paye’s value checks in below the Parsons-Slater tier, but he may also not be in “prove it” territory like Phillips. The former No. 21 overall pick has not battled major injury trouble nor has he delivered A-list production. Settling in as an upper-middle-class edge rusher thus far, the Michigan alum has recorded 16.5 sacks since 2023.

Paye, 26, played a big role in the Colts setting an Indianapolis-era record for sacks in a season (51) in 2023 and has certainly not been a bust for Chris Ballard‘s team. A decision will need to be made soon, though, even as the Colts have bigger issues to sort out. The Colts have done well to extend or re-sign their core players, but Ballard backtracked on an inward-focused approach this offseason by paying Charvarius Ward and Camryn Bynum. Will those deals affect Paye’s standing?

Indianapolis also has two veteran D-tackle contracts on the books (for DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart), and the team used a first-round pick on D-end Laiatu Latu last year. A Paye payday would complement Latu’s rookie-deal years, and the Colts acting early could create a discount opportunity due to Paye never eclipsing nine sacks or 12 QB hits in a season. Those numbers also could give the team pause about Paye’s long-term viability. Paye was not interested in a 2024 extension, but it would stand to reason he would be prepared to talk terms now. No extension rumors have followed, though.

Travis Etienne, RB (Jaguars); option salary: $6.14MM

An Urban Meyer draftee, Etienne has now been a Lawrence teammate for eight years. The Clemson-developed running back delivered quality work for the 2022 and ’23 Jaguars teams, becoming a high-usage player under Doug Pederson in that span. Meyer had telegraphed a hope the Jags could draft Kadarius Toney in 2021, but Etienne proved the far better pick by posting back-to-back seasons of 1,400-plus yards from scrimmage after missing his rookie year with a foot injury. However, Etienne’s stock mirrored that of the team last year. Tank Bigsby cut into his RB1 role, and career-worst marks followed.

Etienne does not appear an extension candidate in Jacksonville, and trade rumors emerged before the draft. Linked to Ashton Jeanty at No. 5, the Jags pulled off a smokescreen operation centered around Travis Hunter. Even with Jacksonville going with Hunter over Jeanty, the team drafted two running backs (Bhayshul Tuten, LeQuint Allen) ahead of Liam Coen‘s first year in charge. Coen did throw cold water on an Etienne trade, but the 26-year-old RB appears set to play out his rookie contract and test free agency in 2026. It will be interesting to see if Coen, who coaxed a promising rookie-year season from Bucky Irving, can move Etienne back on track. But a post-draft report also indicated the new Jags HC is not especially high on the former No. 25 overall pick.

Greg Newsome, CB (Browns); option salary: $13.38MM

As Hunter headed to Jacksonville instead of Cleveland, Newsome saw his status receive an 11th-hour update ahead of the draft. Rather than see Hunter’s two-way role impact him, Newsome enters 2025 in a similar spot. The Browns traded down from No. 2 and took Mason Graham — in a draft that did not see Cleveland draft a cornerback — but Newsome still may not be long for Cleveland.

The Browns dangled the 25-year-old corner in trades before the draft; that followed a pre-deadline trade rumor. In April, it looked like Hunter’s part-time CB role would affect Newsome. But the Browns and Jags had been working on a trade for more than two weeks before the draft. Those trade talks may have been merely a reflection of the organization’s view of Newsome, the 2021 No. 26 overall pick.

Former third-rounder Martin Emerson has operated as Denzel Ward‘s perimeter complementary performer during his career, relegating Newsome to a slot role in sub-packages. Last season, that meant only three starts for Newsome, who described some frustration with his role during the winter. A trade may still be something to monitor ahead of the November deadline, especially if the Browns want to keep stockpiling ammo for a 2026 QB move.

Odafe Oweh, OLB (Ravens); option salary: $13.25MM

Like Paye, Oweh has submitted an extended sample of quality production. Neither had revealed themselves to be difference-making presences going into 2024, but after the Ravens moved on from Jadeveon Clowney, Oweh took a long-awaited step forward. The former No. 31 overall pick broke through for 10 sacks and 23 QB hits. Oweh had never previously surpassed five sacks or 15 hits in a season, with 2024 representing a significant development for a Ravens team that has otherwise relied on veteran stopgaps since Matt Judon‘s 2021 free agency departure.

With David Ojabo not yet panning out, Oweh still has a clear runway in Baltimore. An extension is in play for the ex-Parsons Penn State teammate. Not too much has come out on this front just yet, and the Ravens may also be interested in seeing if Oweh can replicate his 2024 production. Then again, the team has four years of intel on the 26-year-old pass rusher.

Waiting until 2026 to make a play here would run the risk of Oweh’s price rising beyond Baltimore’s comfort zone. No stranger to letting pass-rushing talent walk in free agency and recouping compensatory picks, the Ravens have also not been able to rely on a homegrown pass rusher since Judon. That would stand to make Oweh a reasonable priority in his contract year.

5 Key Stories: 6/15/25 – 6/21/25

June 21st, 2025 at 9:01pm CST by Adam La Rose

As the wait for the opening of training camps around the league begins, a number of high-profile situations remain unresolved. That will likely remain the case for several weeks, but one major free agent move defined the past few days. In case you missed any of the top developments from this week, here is a quick recap:

  • Alexander Chooses Ravens: With no trade or pay cut agreement being reached with the Packers, Jaire Alexander hit the open market upon being released. The two-time Pro Bowler drew immediate interest to no surprise, and in short order he decided on his second career team. Alexander had not been heavily linked to the Ravens upon becoming a free agent, but not long after former Louisville teammate Lamar Jackson publicly endorsed adding him, Baltimore did just that. Alexander will play on a one-year, $4MM pact with another $2MM available via incentives – a far cry from what he was originally owed but a deal which allows him to test the market next spring. The oft-injured cover man’s preference appeared to be a reworked Packers agreement, but in the absence of guarantees on a pay cut he elected to start over on a new team.
  • Ramsey Landing Spots Becoming Clearer? Jalen Ramsey is still with the Dolphins at this point, but nothing has changed with respect to a trade being expected. The list of teams not pursuing him continues to grow, something which is bringing his potential landing spots into greater focus. The Rams have long been known as an interested party in this situation, and they are joined by the Chargers as a team to watch. A Friday report stated Ramsey would prefer being dealt to the West Coast, with the two Los Angeles franchise being listed as destinations. The Bolts had not previously been linked to the 30-year-old, but it will be interesting to see if they partake in a bidding war with the Rams during trade talks with the Dolphins.
  • Guarantees Holding Up Steelers’ Watt Negotiations? Along with a number of other notable edge rushers, T.J. Watt is in talks for a new deal. He and the Steelers have a mutual desire to remain together past 2025, but a raise is in store on a third contract. To little surprise, it appears the matter of guarantees are a sticking point in negotiations. Making another massive investment regarding locked in compensation for Watt, 30, could be a trickier decision on Pittsburgh’s part now compared to when the team made him the league’s highest-paid pass rusher in 2021. That negotiation process took well into the summer, whereas this time around an agreement in time for training camp is the goal.
  • Mosley Retires: On his 33rd birthday, C.J. Mosley announced his retirement from the NFL. A Butkis Award winner and two-time national champion at Alabama, the linebacker entered the league with high expectations. Mosley enjoyed a productive five-year stint with the Ravens, collecting four Pro Bowl nods. He then reset the LB market with an $85MM Jets deal, a pact which did originally yield the desired results (with only two games played from 2019-20). Mosley was a productive starter when healthy in New York, but few were surprised when he was released this offseason. The five-time second-team All-Pro intended to continue his career, but his attention will now turn to his post-playing days.
  • Second-Round Rookies Seeking Fully Guaranteed Deals: Players selected in the first round of the NFL draft have long seen their four-year pacts guaranteed in full. A new precedent was set this offseason when the No. 33 (Carson Schwesinger, Browns) and 34 (Jayden Higgins, Texans) selections received full guarantees for every year of their respective deals. Fellow round two draftees are understandably waiting to sign in the hopes of receiving the same terms. That includes Saints quarterback Tyler Shough, who came off the board 40th overall. Locking in all of his contract would mark a notable jump compared to last year’s selection in that slot. Nearly every other member of the 2025 draft class is on the books by now, but it could take until training camp (or longer) for agreements covering the remaining rookies to be worked out. A resolution to the second-round stalemates will be key in that regard.

Release Candidates: Shelby Harris, Ogbo Okoronkwo

June 20th, 2025 at 10:08pm CST by Adam La Rose

For the Browns, a key talking point through training camp and the preseason will of course be the team’s quarterback competition. Other position battles will be taking place this summer, though, and the defensive line will be a position group to watch.

Cleveland has free agent addition Maliek Collins set to occupy a starting role along the interior after he inked a $20MM deal to join the Browns. Having selected Mason Graham fifth overall in this year’s draft, it can also be safely assumed the All-American will be counted on as a key contributor early and often in his career. 2024 second-rounder Mike Hall is another defensive tackle attached to a rookie contract in Cleveland’s case.

Given the nature of the Browns’ depth chart along the D-line, Shelby Harris could find himself on the outside of the roster bubble. The Athletic’s Zac Jackson writes Harris is in danger of being cut this summer (subscription required). Jackson also notes that the same is true of veteran edge rusher Ogbo Okoronkwo.

Harris has spent time with four teams over the course of his NFL career. The 33-year-old played for the Seahawks in 2022 after being acquired as part of the Russell Wilson trade. That was followed by a free agent deal with the Browns. Harris has logged 31 games and 20 starts to date in Cleveland, and his snap share jumped from 42% in 2023 to 59% last year.

In spite of that workload, the Browns’ moves along the defensive interior this spring would leave Harris lower on the depth chart in the event he were to be retained. One year remains on the former seventh-rounder’s contract. If the Browns were to release or trade him, they would see $1.68MM in cap savings while incurring a slightly lower dead money charge.

Okoronkwo has also been in Cleveland for the past two years. After showing potential with the Texans in 2022 (five sacks, 17 QB pressures) the former fifth-rounder joined the Browns to operate as a complementary option to Myles Garrett. Over the course of his time with the team, however, Okoronkwo has only totaled five starts (each of them coming late last season after Za’Darius Smith had been traded away). In all, he has managed 7.5 sacks.

Garrett is still in the fold for years to come thanks to his new market-resetting deal. The Browns also have recent draftees Alex Wright and Isaiah McGuire in place as No. 2 and 3 pass rush options along the edge. As a result, Jackson notes Okoronkwo, 30, could find himself on the outside looking in. That comes as little surprise given a report from April which stated he was among the players Cleveland was shopping in a potential trade.

Just likes Harris, Okoronkwo is a pending 2026 free agent. None of his scheduled base salary for the year is guaranteed, but the Oklahoma product is owed a $1.5MM option bonus on August 30. That represents a logical deadline for a decision to be made on keeping him in the fold or moving on. In Okoronkwo’s case, a release or trade would yield $3.67MM in cap savings while generating $1.95MM in dead money.

As things stand, the Browns have just over $18MM in cap space. That figure can and will change once final roster cuts are made, and Harris and Okoronkwo are among the notable names to watch with respect to a potential parting of ways in the near future.

Traded Draft Picks For 2026

June 18th, 2025 at 10:15pm CST by Sam Robinson

Many months remain before teams know where they are picking in the 2026 draft, but many clubs have made moves to acquire 2026 draft capital. Headlined by the Browns and Rams’ efforts, here are the 2026 picks to have changed hands thus far. When more deals involving picks are made (or conditions on moves already completed become known), that information will be added.

Round 1

Round 2

Round 3

Round 4

Round 5

Round 6

Round 7

5 Key Stories: 6/8/25 – 6/14/25

June 14th, 2025 at 9:04pm CST by Adam La Rose

Most teams around the league have completed their minicamps, ending their offseason programs. Plenty of unanswered questions remain with respect to extensions and the fate of two high-profile corners at this point on the calendar, though. In case you missed any of the top developments from this week, here is a quick recap:

  • Packers Release Alexander: After an offseason filled with uncertainty over his Packers future, Jaire Alexander has been let go. The two-time Pro Bowler was the subject of trade discussions multiple times this spring, but the two lucrative years remaining on his contract proved too cumbersome for suitors. Green Bay attempted to work out a restructure agreement, but with that falling short the team proceeded with a release. Alexander, 28, will count just over $17MM against the cap this season and then come off the books in 2026. The oft-injured corner has drawn immediate free agent interest and it will be interesting to see where he lands. A one-year deal should be in store but Alexander could prove to be an impactful summer addition on his next team.
  • Cousins Preparing For Second Falcons Season: Once the Aaron Rodgers domino fell, no obvious suitors remained for a quarterback addition. As a result, Kirk Cousins appears set to handle backup duties with the Falcons despite his long-running efforts to find a new opportunity. Michael Penix Jr. enters 2025 as Atlanta’s starter, but the team is set to move forward with Cousins as an expensive backup. The Falcons have made clear their willingness to keep the 36-year-old in the fold, turning aside trade offers and declining to retain any notable portion of the guaranteed money he is owed to facilitate a deal. Cousins said during minicamp his attention has turned to managing his situation, one which will see him spend a second season in Atlanta barring an unforeseen development.
  • Parsons Aims To Become Highest-Paid Non-QB: The top of the EDGE market currently sits at $40MM per year, but the likes of Trey Hendrickson and especially T.J. Watt could move the benchmark even higher. If/when that takes place, Micah Parsons is positioned to move to the top of the pecking order on his Cowboys extension. With little to no traction being gained since an informal agreement was reached with owner Jerry Jones, Parsons is intent to become the league’s top earner among non-quarterbacks. That would involve an AAV above $40.25MM at this point, but the two-time All-Pro anticipates his asking price rising in relation to Watt’s in particular. Jones has developed a reputation for waiting too long during high-profile negotiations, and this situation could be another illustration of that point. Parsons, 26, will attend training camp but does not plan on participating without a deal in hand.
  • Texans Add Chubb: As expected, Nick Chubb will not be back with the Browns in 2025. With his productive Cleveland tenure in the rearview, the Pro Bowl back endured a lengthy free agent spell before agreeing to join the Texans. Chubb will play in Houston on a one-year, $2.5MM pact with the potential to double his earnings via incentives. Uncertainty lingers over how well the 29-year-old will be able to return to his previous form, given the underwhelming nature of his play when healthy last season. Joe Mixon is positioned to once again lead Houston’s backfield, but Chubb could earn himself a strong payday next spring with an effective showing as part of a tandem.
  • Ramsey Still Awaiting Dolphins Departure: It has long been understood Jalen Ramsey will not play for the Dolphins again, but he is still in the organization. The seven-time Pro Bowler was an excused absence from Miami’s minicamp while a trade continues to be sought out. Ramsey’s relationship with head coach Mike McDaniel has been a talking point, and members of Miami’s staff have confirmed the parting of ways is not based on performance. At the age of 30, continuing to perform at an All-Pro level may not be expected by an acquiring team, although expectations will be high given the term and money (including $24.24MM in guaranteed salary) left on his deal.

Extension Candidate: Tyler Linderbaum

June 9th, 2025 at 10:03pm CST by Nikhil Mehta

The Ravens declined the fifth-year option of center Tyler Linderbaum in May, making 2025 a contract year for the 2022 first-round pick.

Typically, that decision means that a team doesn’t want to sign a player to a long-term extension. The Ravens, for example, didn’t pick up Patrick Queen‘s fifth-year option in 2023 and let him walk in free agency the following year.

Linderbaum’s situation is a little different. The NFL calculates fifth-year option values based on the top salaries at each position, but the formula groups all offensive linemen together. With two Pro Bowls under his belt, Linderbaum’s fifth-year option reached the highest tier at $23.4MM; effectively, the Ravens would have been paying their starting center like a premium left tackle in 2026. That figure would have also set a high bar in long-term contract talks as players rarely sign extensions with an average value below their fifth-year option.

As a result, a new deal for Linderbaum is still firmly in play in the coming months. The Ravens confirmed as much in a statement when they announced their fifth-year option decisions, though general manager Eric DeCosta said the same thing about Queen on a team podcast in 2023. At that time, the Ravens had recently traded for Roquan Smith and used a third-round pick on Trenton Simpson, but this year, they have no clear successor for Linderbaum on the roster. (A franchise tag for 2026 is likely out of the question. Thanks to the same positional designation quirk, Linderbaum is projected by OverTheCap to cost $24.7MM on the transition tag and $27.603MM on the franchise tag.)

Even if Baltimore could find a replacement by next season, he likely will not offer the same elite level of play as Linderbaum. The 25-year-old center has been one of the league’s best since he was drafted in 2022 with the No. 25 pick, which the Ravens acquired as a result of the Marquise Brown trade. Linderbaum immediately stepped in as Lamar Jackson‘s starting center and put together a solid rookie year before making a leap in 2023 after the arrival of offensive coordinator Todd Monken.

Improvements in Linderbaum’s anchor in pass protection and Monken’s creative use of his athleticism in the run game has brought out the best in Linderbaum over the last two seasons. In that time, he reached two Pro Bowls and hasn’t allowed a single sack, per PFF (subscription required), and the Ravens have dominated opponents on the ground.

The former Iowa Hawkeye has also been durable in his career thus far, starting 54 of the Ravens’ 56 games since he was drafted (including the postseason). Jackson struggled with consistency at center before Linderbaum’s arrival in 2022, so the team has reason for wanting to lock the position down for the foreseeable future.

Given Linderbaum’s pedigree and durability, an extension is likely predicated on making him the highest-paid center in the NFL. Currently, that title belongs to the Chiefs’ Creed Humphrey, who signed a four-year, $72MM deal last August with $35MM guaranteed at signing and $50.315MM in total guarantees, per OverTheCap. That should get Linderbaum above $18MM per year with a commensurate increase in guaranteed money.

He may even push to join the ranks of the highest-paid interior offensive linemen with the guard market above $20MM per year. That may prove difficult for the Ravens, who are working on an extension for Jackson with several other key players in the last year of their contracts. Baltimore would likely prefer to make Linderbaum the league’s most expensive center at a more symbolic $18.25MM or $18.5MM APY rather than resetting the market at $19MM or more. They could rely on a familiar strategy to accomplish that.

DeCosta has kept a lid on the team’s major contracts by offering significant guarantees at signing in exchange for a discount on APY. For example, Ronnie Stanley could have signed for more than $20MM per year on the open market, but he took $60MM over three years from the Ravens, in part because his $44MM in fully guaranteed money ranks third among NFL left tackles.

As a result, a four-year, $74MM extension with a stronger guarantee structure than Humphrey’s deal could offer a middle ground between Linderbaum and the Ravens. He has been present for all but one practice during Baltimore’s OTAs, indicating that he has no intention of holding out (or in) this year as the team works on a new contract.

Poll: Which WR Trade Will Prove Most Beneficial?

June 6th, 2025 at 10:09pm CST by Adam La Rose

The 2025 offseason has seen a number of high-profile receivers change teams via free agency. The likes of Davante Adams, Cooper Kupp and DeAndre Hopkins have undertaken a change of scenery so far. The same will also soon be true of Keenan Allen and Amari Cooper.

This spring has also provided notable moves at the position via trade, however. A total of four swaps including wideouts have taken place in 2025; in three of those cases, the player included in the deal changed teams for the first time in their career. For all squads involved, the outcome of the trades will be key in determining their success this season and beyond.

March began with the 49ers sending Deebo Samuel to the Commanders. That deal – which yielded a fifth-round pick in return – came when team and player mutually agreed a parting ways was in order. Samuel had previously requested a trade, but his 2022 extension allowed him to remain in San Francisco. The 29-year-old has been unable to duplicate the production from his All-Pro campaign in 2021 when he showcased his receiving and rushing abilities.

Between a downturn in output and the massive extension which was (eventually) worked out with Brandon Aiyuk last offseason, many expected 2024 would be Samuel’s final year in the Bay Area. Shortly after the season ended, it became clear the Commanders were among the teams pursuing the former Pro Bowler. For at least one year (since he is a pending 2026 free agent), Samuel will offer the Commanders a veteran secondary WR option to complement perennial 1,000-yard performer Terry McLaurin.

Samuel saw his base salary for this year guaranteed via a restructure upon arrival in Washington. $3MM in incentives are present as well, adding to his earning potential on a Commanders team looking to replicate its surprising offensive success from 2024. The 49ers, meanwhile, will move forward with Aiyuk. Jauan Jennings and a number of younger options capable of handling at least a depth receiver role.

Christian Kirk initially appeared to be a cap casualty for the Jaguars this offseason. Instead of cutting the former Cardinal, however, the team’s new regime traded him inside the division to the Texans. A seventh-round pick in next year’s draft prevented Houston from having to win a bidding war for his services. Just like Samuel, Kirk restructured his contract shortly after being acquired.

The 28-year-old is also a pending free agent, so he too could prove to be a rental. Nico Collins will remain WR1 for the Texans in 2025, but the loss of Stefon Diggs and the likelihood of Tank Dell missing considerable time while recovering from multiple knee surgeries will give Kirk a notable role on his new team. Mentioned as a Steelers trade deadline target last fall, the former second-rounder saw his production decline over each of his three Jaguars seasons. Kirk should nevertheless be able to operate as a useful deep threat as the Texans transition to new offensive coordinator Nick Caley.

The skill positions have undergone many changes in Jacksonville this offseason. Kirk’s trade was accompanied by the decision to cut wideout/returner Devin Duvernay, along with Gabe Davis. With Pro Bowl tight end Evan Engram also no longer in the picture, first-year head coach Liam Coen will have a number of new pass catchers in place for 2025. The success of that new group will be a key talking point.

Even before March, D.K. Metcalf’s Seahawks future was uncertain. A desire to land a second extension (putting him near the top of the position’s market) paved the way for a trade request. General manager John Schneider later said finances were not at the heart of the decision to pull off a trade, noting the two-time Pro Bowler’s strong desire to move on. Seattle’s asking price originally included a first-round pick, but that was soon lowered.

In the end, a second-round selection (in addition to a swap of Day 3 selections) proved to be sufficient for the Steelers to acquire Metcalf. The trade was immediately followed by a four-year, $132MM extension agreement. As a result of that pact, Metcalf, 27, met his known goal of joining the list of receivers earning at least $30MM per season on average. His AAV of $33MM ranks fourth at the position.

As Seattle moves forward with a receiver group centered on Kupp (who was added on a homecoming deal following his Rams release) and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Pittsburgh will rely heavily on Metcalf for 2025 and beyond. Questions loom about Pittsburgh’s 2025 quarterback starter and his upside, but expectations will be high for in Metcalf’s case as a player who has posted no fewer than 900 yards in each of his six NFL seasons.

At first, the Metcalf addition seemed to put the Steelers in place to pair him with George Pickens for at least one campaign. The latter found himself on the move one month ago, however. Pickens was dealt to the Cowboys in exchange for a third-round pick in next year’s draft (with late-round selections in the 2027 event being exchanged as well).

Pickens – who did not request to be moved – has one year remaining on his rookie contract. The 24-year-old is not aiming to sign a Cowboys extension at this point, so much will depend on his performance with his new team. Of course, this situation will also contain plenty of scrutiny in terms of maturity and locker room fit in Dallas. Issues on those fronts led to an ambivalence among many Steelers with respect to Pickens’ departure.

The Cowboys did not draft a first-round receiver as many thought they would, but adding Pickens will provide the team with a high-potential CeeDee Lamb counterpart. A strong showing from that tandem will help Pickens’ market value on a re-signing or a long-term arrangement with a third team. For Pittsburgh, meanwhile, Metcalf’s supporting cast faces questions (although another pass-catching addition is being explored). The Steelers’ decision to make one lucrative investment at any given time in a receiver is common enough, but the impact of replacing Pickens with Metcalf will be felt in 2025 as well as future years.

Keeping in mind the prices paid in these trades and the other receiver-related moves made by the teams who parted ways with those involved in the swaps, which do you think will work out the best? Vote in PFR’s latest poll and have your say in the comments section below.

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