The flurry of NFL player movement happens early in the offseason, but the start of summer and the post-June 1 date can lead to more possibilities with training camp around the corner. These are a few potential moves to keep an eye on in the coming week.
Broncos trade WR Courtland Sutton
49ers receivers Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel have also been highly discussed for much of the offseason, but San Francisco appears likely to keep them both while making another run at a championship. However, Broncos receiver Courtland Sutton is someone that does feel like a very realistic candidate to still be moved. While this would be a blow to Denver as they look to be more competitive than people think this year, they currently have a crowded receiver room with several guys vying for roles. Dealing Sutton would allow get his contract off the books and have the offense start fresh under new quarterback Bo Nix. The Steelers are a natural fit for Sutton given his connection with Russell Wilson last year.
Seahawks keep WRs DK Metcalf & Tyler Lockett
Second-year receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba is someone that can take on a larger role for the Seahawks in an offense that might lean more into the passing game under first-year offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb. Seattle probably likes the idea of having an exceptional trio of JSN, DK Metcalf, and Tyler Lockett—like what Grubb had to work with at the University of Washington with Rome Odunze, Ja’Lynn Polk, and Jalen McMillan. Metcalf is too good to deal, and Lockett just restructured his contractearlier this offseason.
Eagles keep CB James Bradberry
There is speculation that cornerback James Bradberry, who has not been in attendance at voluntary offseason workouts, is a post-June 1 cut likelihood. But Philadelphia is a team looking to compete for a Super Bowl, and Bradberry played at an All-Pro level just a couple of seasons ago—so they might want to see how he’s performing in Vic Fangio’s new defense during training camp before making any decisions. Despite adding Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean at corner in the first two rounds of the draft, they don’t need to see immediate playing time if they’re not ready. A cut (or trade) of Bradberry might happen at some point, but I don’t think it’s a formality and I don’t think it happens soon.
Panthers sign CB Stephon Gilmore
Carolina was aggressive this offseason in adding veteran talent to boost the roster of what was the worst team in football last season. That might continue as we get into the summer with former Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore, who played half the season for the Panthers a few years ago. Remember, cornerback Donte Jackson was traded for receiver Diontae Johnson early in the offseason, and Carolina—which added Jadeveon Clowney and D.J. Wonnum off the edge among their free-agent haul—already has sneaky upside on defense after a disappointing 2023 campaign.
Bills do not acquire a WR
Many are clamoring for the Bills to get Josh Allen another weapon after trading away Stefon Diggs and losing Gabe Davis during free agency, but don’t expect that to happen. The team sounds happy with what they have in the receiving room right now and a spread-the-wealth approach that’ll likely revolve around second-year tight end Dalton Kincaid in the middle of the field. Second-round rookie Keon Coleman can become a force quicker than many expect, Curtis Samuel is going to have a clear role under offensive coordinator Joe Brady, Khalil Shakir is an ascending player, and there is plenty of depth and competition with guys like Marquez Valdes-Scantling in the mix.