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NFL Trade Talks Stall: Aiyuk, Crosby, Thibodeaux, Sweat Stay

7/3/2026

25 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

49ers GM John Lynch can trade or cut Brandon Aiyuk, who signed a $120 million contract and wants Washington, after voiding his 2026 guarantee.
Maxx Crosby’s trade to the Ravens collapsed after a failed medical exam.
Giants denied Kayvon Thibodeaux trade talks in April, citing injuries limiting him to 12 games after an 11.5-sack 2023.
Arizona Cardinals say Josh Sweat, on a four-year, $76.4 million deal after 12 sacks, will not be traded.

History

Historical Context

The 1993 collective bargaining agreement, settled after antitrust lawsuits, created unrestricted free agency and a hard salary cap of $34.6 million for the 1994 season. That cap forced tight contract management, a pattern seen today as Giants GM John Lynch blocks a trade of Brandon Aiyuk’s $120 million deal while the Cardinals retain Josh Sweat’s $76.4 million pact. The legacy still drives roster strategy and future CBA talks.

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Story summary

49ers GM John Lynch can trade or cut Brandon Aiyuk, who signed a $120 million contract and wants Washington, after voiding his 2026 guarantee.
Maxx Crosby’s trade to the Ravens collapsed after a failed medical exam.
Giants denied Kayvon Thibodeaux trade talks in April, citing injuries limiting him to 12 games after an 11.5-sack 2023.
Arizona Cardinals say Josh Sweat, on a four-year, $76.4 million deal after 12 sacks, will not be traded.

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