NFL Rumors: 3 Cut Candidates Who Could Become Hot Free Agent Targets

With NFL training camps looming and roster cuts just weeks away, some veteran names are quietly surfacing as possible surprise releases. 

According to Alex Kay of Bleacher Report, three players, Austin Ekeler, Taysom Hill, and Kendrick Bourne, could be let go before Week 1. But if they’re cut, each is expected to generate immediate interest across the league.

Austin Ekeler Still Brings Value in the Right Offense

Austin Ekeler’s first year in Washington didn’t live up to his Los Angeles Chargers heyday, producing just 733 yards from scrimmage over 12 games. Now 30, Ekeler’s days as a workhorse may be over, but his versatility and return skills still matter.

Commanders RB Austin Ekeler loves this DMV region and fan base.

He said, "the culture around football here is truly incredible...that's so special to have the community involved because we feel like we are together out here." pic.twitter.com/aoj9gP63IH

— Scott Abraham (@Scott7news) June 11, 2025

He earned second-team All-Pro honors as a kick returner last year, and a pass-heavy offense could benefit from his hands out of the backfield. Washington would save $3.4 million by releasing him, a move that could easily lead to a quick landing elsewhere. 

Taysom Hill May Be Done in New Orleans, But Not the NFL

Coming off a torn ACL and heading into his age-35 season, Taysom Hill might finally be reaching the end of his unique run with the New Orleans Saints. Still, Hill’s 44 career touchdowns and ability to play quarterback, tight end, and special teams give him rare appeal, especially to playoff-bound teams that value gadget players. 

Taysom Hill being Taysom Hill 💪 pic.twitter.com/SXIdEvvq98

— Football’s Greatest Moments (@FBGreatMoments) June 24, 2025

If the Saints cut him loose, they’d save $10 million in cap space and open the door for a contender to pick up a versatile weapon for the stretch run. 

Kendrick Bourne Could Bolster a WR-Needy Offense

Kendrick Bourne’s time in New England may be winding down. The Patriots have a crowded receiver room and could save over $6 million by parting ways with the soon-to-be 30-year-old. Bourne’s production dipped in 2024, but he’s shown enough polish as a route-runner to earn a role elsewhere, especially with a more stable offense and quarterback situation. 

Teams in need of veteran depth or slot help will have him on their radar if he becomes available.

Photo Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images