Some gamers are already feeling the warmth by 13 weeks of the NFL season.
At this level, most groups most likely know whether or not they need to make roster adjustments in 2025. Listed below are 5 gamers on the most well liked seats and a prediction for every:
Atlanta Falcons QB Kirk Cousins
Is it time for rookie QB Michael Penix Jr. to exchange Cousins?
In Sunday’s 17-13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, Cousins threw a season-high 4 interceptions. In his postgame information convention, Falcons head coach Raheem Morris mentioned he isn’t planning on benching Cousins. If the QB retains struggling, the coach might change his thoughts.
Atlanta (6-6) has misplaced three straight video games. Throughout this stretch, Cousins has six interceptions and no TD passes, posting a subpar 38.8 QBR.
The Falcons most likely will not launch Cousins — who’s within the first yr of a four-year, $180M deal — this upcoming offseason. Per Spotrac, reducing him with a post-June 1 designation would incur $40M in lifeless cap in 2025 and $25M in 2026.
Nonetheless, do not be shocked if No. 8 total decide Penix debuts sooner reasonably than later.
Prediction: Falcons bench Cousins and have him battle with Penix for beginning job in 2025.
New York Jets QB Aaron Rodgers
Rodgers, 41, not too long ago advised ESPN’s Pat McAfee he is not sure whether or not he’ll play in 2025. The QB mentioned the Jets can be his “first possibility” if he does. New York, nonetheless, might divorce him.
Rodgers underwent Achilles surgical procedure in 2023. Clearly, the damage might nonetheless be affecting him. Via 12 begins, he has a 3-9 file and has the fourth-lowest QBR (48.5) of his profession.
The four-time MVP additionally appears to be shedding his arm energy. In accordance with Professional Soccer Focus, he has accomplished 41.1% of his passes between 10-19 yards, thirty eighth out of 40 eligible QBs (min. 22 makes an attempt).
Spotrac estimates reducing or buying and selling Rodgers with a post-June 1 designation would yield $14M in lifeless cap in 2025 and $35M in 2026. Anticipate the Jets to maneuver on from him regardless of the bills.
On a Sunday episode of “NFL GameDay,” NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport mentioned Rodgers returning to the Jets subsequent season is a “lengthy shot.”
Prediction: Jets lower Rodgers, and he indicators with a QB-needy workforce, maybe the Raiders or Titans.
Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker
Tucker appeared computerized by his first 12 seasons, however he is not some of the correct kickers within the league.
In Sunday’s 24-19 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, Tucker missed an additional level and two area targets.
Following the loss, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh advised the media he isn’t planning on changing Tucker. Until Tucker snaps out of his funk, Harbaugh ought to rethink.
Tucker’s kicking woes might price Baltimore (8-5) within the playoffs. Via his first 13 video games, the five-time first-team All-Professional has made a career-low 70.4% of his field-goal makes an attempt.
Prediction: Ravens bench Tucker earlier than common season ends and transfer on from him in 2025.
Los Angeles Chargers edge-rusher Joey Bosa
Bosa — who agreed to a $7M pay lower and $15M assure this previous offseason— has did not solidify his future with the franchise. Via his first 9 video games, he has three sacks and 10 pressures, by way of Professional Soccer Reference.
The injury-riddled pass-rusher can not seem to keep wholesome, both. Bosa, 29, has battled hip and again points this season.
Bosa’s contract features a potential out this offseason. If the Chargers activate it, it’ll lead to $11.1M in lifeless cap. L.A. ought to attempt to commerce him earlier than reducing him.
Groups that need assistance at edge-rusher (Cardinals and Bengals?) could also be within the former Professional Bowler.
Prediction: The Chargers commerce or launch Bosa.
New Orleans Saints QB Derek Carr
Via his first 9 begins, Carr has accomplished 68.1% of his passes for 14 TDs and 4 interceptions, however he is 4-5.
Carr is within the second yr of a four-year, $150M deal, making him a possible lower candidate in 2025. If he is nonetheless on the roster on the third day of the league yr in March, his 2025 wage ($30M) turns into totally assured. (His contract accommodates a no-trade clause.)
Saints backup QB Spencer Rattler did not appear like the reply when he stuffed in for an injured Carr earlier this season. The rookie out of South Carolina and Oklahoma went 0-3 in three begins, tossing one TD and two picks.
Spotrac initiatives the Saints will probably be $77.39M over the cap in 2025. As an alternative of signing a free agent, they could draft a QB, maybe Texas’ Quinn Ewers or Georgia’s Carson Beck.
Prediction: Saints launch Carr and draft his substitute.
