The new league year and NFL free agency don't start until March 18, but teams aren't waiting to make moves. Long-term negotiations are underway for some players, while others have been shown the door in cap-saving moves.
For the cap casualties, being released before the start of free agency can be beneficial. It allows them to get a jump on the market and to be the primary focus of teams that need to strengthen their rosters at those positions.
Interested teams, meanwhile, can potentially address a key need before the frenzy that is free agency's opening day.