The Opening Drive 6/18: Potential Cap Casualties The Browns Should Be Monitoring

We examine some of the more notable NFL veterans at the Browns' positions of need who could be cap casualties before the 2026 Season.

(Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)

Every offseason, NFL teams are forced to make difficult decisions between proven veterans and younger, less expensive talent. Whether it’s declining production, injury concerns, roster competition, or salary cap considerations, several recognizable names enter training camp with uncertain futures. Here are some veterans the Browns should be monitoring around the league who could find themselves on the chopping block before the start of the 2026 season.

The Browns are thin at several positions and could use cornerback depth, another rotational EDGE, and maybe a veteran tight end. However, it is still somewhat unclear how aggressively Andrew Berry is willing to make roster moves solely to increase their ability to win games this season.

Bud Dupree, OLB, Los Angeles Chargers

Bud Dupree has managed to remain a useful rotational pass rusher deep into his career, but his place on the Chargers’ roster appears less secure than it once was. After recording six sacks in 2024, his production declined significantly last season, finishing with just two sacks and 16 total tackles despite increased opportunities. Now entering his age-33 season, Dupree finds himself battling a wave of younger talent for snaps. First-round pick Akheem Mesidor is expected to have a prominent role in the edge rotation, while Kyle Kennard continues to push for playing time as well. With Khalil Mack and Tuli Tuipulotu locked into major roles, Dupree could be fighting for one of the final edge spots on the roster. The Chargers would also gain cap flexibility by moving on from the veteran, whose current cap hit sits at approximately $3.4 million.

Will Dissly, TE, Los Angeles Chargers

Will Dissly could find himself on the roster bubble as the Chargers continue to get younger at the tight end position. Injuries limited him to just nine games last season, and during his absence, rookie Oronde Gadsden II emerged as a larger part of the offense. Even after returning, Dissly struggled to reclaim a significant role in the offense. If the Chargers believe Gadsden is ready to take over as the primary tight end, Dissly’s future with the team becomes much less certain. Financially, Los Angeles could save roughly $4 million against the cap while absorbing only $1.5 million in dead money by releasing him.

T.J. Hockenson, TE, Minnesota Vikings

T.J. Hockenson has long been one of the league’s premier tight ends, but questions about his future in Minnesota are beginning to emerge. Since returning from the devastating knee injury he suffered in 2023, Hockenson has not consistently looked like the player he was before the injury. While still productive, his overall efficiency and impact dipped during the 2025 season. The Vikings also face a challenging salary cap situation, making several veteran contracts worth evaluating. Releasing Hockenson would save Minnesota approximately $8.9 million against the cap, though it would also result in a substantial $12.4 million dead cap charge.