5 roster moves to save the NY Jets $45 million in cap space

5. NY Jets cut Braxton Berrios

• Cap Savings: $5 million
• Dead Cap: $3.23 million

Most fans rejoiced when the Jets re-signed Braxton Berrios to a two-year, $12 million extension last offseason. A fan-favorite, Berrios was one of the best return specialists in the NFL in 2021, and he more than proved his worth as a reliable receiver.

Berrios was seen as a core special-teamer and a very capable fourth receiver option entering the 2022 season. Unfortunately, few players on the roster disappointed more than the former Miami standout this past year.

Berrios was straight-up bad in 2022. His return averages dropped significantly, he made numerous costly blunders on punt returns, and his limitations as a receiver became more evident.

The Jets lost their Week 13 game against the Minnesota Vikings due in large part to Berrios' drop in the end zone. He was primarily a net negative for the Jets this past season.

That's what makes it highly unlikely that the Jets decide to bring Berrios back at his $8.23 million cap hit in 2023. Simply put, that's just far too hefty of a number for a player of his caliber.

The Jets can easily replicate Berrios' production, both as a returner and a wide receiver, for less than that. A dead cap hit of $3.23 million isn't ideal, but the Jets can find a Berrios replacement with the $5 million they would save.

It's hard to justify keeping Berrios around at a cap hit of over $8 million. This is a move the Jets should absolutely make.