The Philadelphia Eagles, reigning Super Bowl champions, made headlines this offseason with surprising salary cap moves, officially effective as of Monday, June 2, 2025. By releasing Pro Bowl defensive backs Darius Slay and James Bradberry, the team has freed up approximately $6.4 million in cap space for the upcoming season.
The Eagles utilized the “Post June-1” designation for these cuts, a strategic move that spreads the owed money over two salary cap years instead of absorbing it all in one. This approach not only creates immediate cap relief but also avoids paying the non-guaranteed salaries of both players, providing additional financial flexibility.
While the financial benefits are clear, the decision to part ways with two experienced veterans raises questions about the team’s defensive strategy. The Eagles’ secondary is now anchored by two promising second-year players: Quinyon Mitchell at cornerback and Cooper DeJean at safety. However, the depth behind them is noticeably thinner, which could pose challenges as the season unfolds.
Releasing players of Slay and Bradberry’s caliber is a bold move for a championship team. Darius Slay, nicknamed “Big Play Slay,” has already found a new home with the Pittsburgh Steelers, while James Bradberry remains a free agent. The loss of their talent and leadership may test Philadelphia’s ability to maintain its defensive prowess.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, roster turnover is a constant. The best teams adapt and retool swiftly, and the Eagles are no exception. Whether these cuts prove to be a savvy financial maneuver or a risky gamble will depend on how the revamped secondary performs in the upcoming season. For now, the cap space is secured, and Philadelphia is poised to make further moves to defend their title.