The Philadelphia Eagles have made bold financial moves to bolster their salary cap, leveraging the NFL’s June 1 rule to create significant breathing room. This strategic decision involved parting ways with two defensive stalwarts, cornerbacks Darius Slay and James Bradberry, in a post-June 1 designation that has reshaped their roster and financial outlook.
Understanding the June 1 Rule
The NFL’s June 1 rule is a critical tool for teams managing their salary cap. When a team cuts or trades a player before June 1, the remaining bonus money in the player’s contract hits the cap immediately, often creating a hefty financial burden. However, by waiting until after June 1 or using a “June 1 designation,” teams can spread the cap hit over two years—part in the current year and part in the next. This approach provides immediate cap relief, which is crucial for signing rookies or free agents. Teams are limited to using this designation on only two players per year, making it a calculated move for managing expensive veteran contracts.
Eagles’ Financial Windfall
By applying the post-June 1 designation to Darius Slay and James Bradberry, the Eagles gained a substantial $6.42 million in cap space, according to Over The Cap. This boost brings their total salary cap space to an impressive $27 million. As Eagles reporter Anthony DiBona noted, “Eagles will gain $6.42 million in cap space today thanks to the releases of both Darius Slay and James Bradberry, according to @Jason_OTC. Philadelphia should now have $27 million in cap space, which will also increase once the Bryce Huff trade is officially completed.”
The team’s cap space is expected to climb even higher, potentially reaching $30 million, once the trade involving edge rusher Bryce Huff to the San Francisco 49ers is finalized. This additional flexibility positions the Eagles to make significant roster moves in the near future.
The Cost of Financial Freedom: Losing Darius Slay
Eagles will gain $6.42 million in cap space today thanks to the releases of both Darius Slay and James Bradberry, according to @Jason_OTC.
Philadelphia should now have $27 million in cap space, which will also increase once the Bryce Huff trade is officially completed. pic.twitter.com/6BAIrqNb7o
— Anthony DiBona (@DiBonaNFL) June 1, 2025
The decision to release Darius Slay was a purely financial one, not a reflection of his on-field contributions. Over five seasons with the Eagles, Slay appeared in 74 games, recording nine interceptions, 56 pass breakups, and three fumble recoveries. Beyond his stats, Slay played a pivotal role in mentoring rookie cornerbacks Cooper DeJean and Quinyon Mitchell, helping them transition seamlessly from college to the NFL. His departure leaves a void in leadership and experience in the Eagles’ secondary, making it a tough but necessary sacrifice for the team’s financial health.
James Bradberry’s Exit: Injuries and Declining Performance
In contrast, the release of James Bradberry was driven by a combination of injuries and a dip in production. Originally a second-round pick by the Carolina Panthers in 2016, Bradberry spent four seasons with the Panthers and two with the New York Giants before joining the Eagles in 2022. That year, he earned his first All-Pro nod, which led to a three-year, $38 million contract extension in March 2023. Over his seven NFL seasons, Bradberry has amassed 19 interceptions and 478 tackles in 125 games. However, recent injuries and a decline in performance prompted the Eagles to move on, freeing up additional cap space.
What’s Next for the Eagles?
With approximately $30 million in cap space on the horizon, the Eagles are poised for their next big move. The finalized trade of Bryce Huff to the 49ers will further enhance their financial flexibility, giving general manager Howie Roseman the resources to pursue high-impact free agents or invest in emerging talent. The team’s aggressive cap management signals their intent to remain competitive in the NFC, but the loss of Slay and Bradberry raises questions about the depth of their secondary. Will the Eagles target a veteran cornerback to replace their departed stars, or will they trust their young talent to step up? One thing is certain: Philadelphia’s next move will be worth watching.
The Eagles’ strategic use of the June 1 rule has given them a financial edge, but at the cost of two defensive pillars. As they navigate the offseason, their ability to balance fiscal responsibility with on-field competitiveness will shape their path forward. Stay tuned—this is one team that never fails to surprise!