×

Green Bay Packers among teams getting more flexibility with calendar turning to June

Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers reacts after running in for a touchdown during an NFL divisional playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams on Jan. 16 in Green Bay, Wis. (AP file photo)

Now that the calendar has turned to June, NFL teams can trade or release players and spread the salary cap hit over two years instead of one.

That doesn’t mean Aaron Rodgers is going anywhere but the Packers couldn’t afford to deal him from a financial standpoint until now. Other star players such as Julio Jones and Zach Ertz are more likely to be moved.

The Philadelphia Eagles already released wide receiver Alshon Jeffery and defensive tackle Malik Jackson with a post-June 1st designation and the Minnesota Vikings did the same with tight end Kyle Rudolph.

With the salary cap expected to increase up to $208.2 million in 2022, teams have more flexibility to make blockbuster moves now that this important date has arrived.

Here’s a look at some players who could be traded or released:

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, left, reacts with teammate wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling during the second half against the Minnesota Vikings on Sept. 13 in Minneapolis. (AP file photo)

——————-

AARON RODGERS

The reigning NFL MVP has expressed his frustration with the Packers, but the team has insisted he’s staying in Green Bay. The Packers would have incurred a $38.4 million dead cap charge in 2021 by trading Rodgers before Tuesday. The Eagles took a record $33.8 million hit this year when they sent Carson Wentz to Indianapolis. By waiting to move Rodgers, the Packers would free up $22.85 million in salary cap space in 2021 and another $25.5 million for 2022 while clearing the contract off the books entirely for 2023.

Of course, the club hasn’t reached the point it wants to part with the three-time league MVP.

——————-

JULIO JONES

The seven-time Pro Bowl wide receiver said last week that he’s ready to leave Atlanta. The Falcons have salary cap issues and Jones counts $23 million against it for 2021. Trading him now can save Atlanta $15 million.

The 32-year-old Jones had 51 receptions for 771 yards and three touchdowns in nine games last season.

——————-

ZACH ERTZ

The three-time Pro Bowl tight end said goodbye to Philadelphia after the season, but the Eagles haven’t found an acceptable offer.

The 30-year-old Ertz is coming off his worst season in which he caught just 36 passes for 335 yards and one TD in 11 games.

Starting at $2.99/week.

Subscribe Today