NFL surprise cuts and releases: players who could be let go of last minute

The 2021 NFL free agency is already considered to be a ‘bloodshed’ with the release of several well-known Veterans. Here’s a look at other possible players who could be cut or released last minute: 

With the NFL free agency start date approaching soon, various players could be cut or released because of the limited cap space. Here are a few names to look out for:

Von Miller, Outside linebacker: Broncos

Von Miller has an enormous $22.3 million cap hit this year, but coming off an injury-ended season and at 32 years old, the Broncos could release him.

Releasing Miller would leave the Broncos with close to $50million, allowing them to enter the free agency with a dangerous amount to spend.

Jimmy Garoppolo, 49ers: Quarterback

Though the 49ers have been apparently keen to bring back the former Patriot, there is the possibility of him being traded or released. If he is cut, the niners could save almost $24million in cap space.

The Niners could find possible replacements such as veteran Alex Smith, or draft a young quarterback as they currently hold the 12th overall pick for 2021.

Zach Ertz, Eagles: Tight end

The 30 year old veteran tight end has been reportedly “impatient” with the Eagles’ inability to release or trade him. The long-time Eagle would hold a staggering cap hit of $12 million if he stays with Philadelphia.

The Eagles are reportedly looking for a 3rd or 4th round pick in exchange for him. However, if they are unable to find any potential trade partners, they could release him anytime they wanted.

Geno Atkins, Bengals: Defensive tackle

The longtime Bengal has already been reportedly placed on the trade block. However, he will probably be cut if no team is willing to trade for him. Cutting him this offseason would save almost $10 million in salary-cap space.

Atkins was riddled with injuries last season, recording just 1 sack in his playing time. He also finished with just one tackle and one QB hit, earning him a 54.0 PFF grade. By far the worst of his career.

Jimmy Graham, Bears: Tight end

The veteran tight end has a heavy cap hit of $10million. Though Bears Head Coach Matt Naggy loves tight ends, releasing Graham would save roughly $7million.

The Bears currently have less than $1 million in cap space, which is not ideal heading into free agency and the draft. Releasing the 34 year old would provide instant relief.

With the 2021 NFL free agency set to begin soon, NFL teams could be looking extremely different compared to last season.

Also read: K.J Wright believes Russell Wilson will not leave the Seattle Seahawks