Massive Roster Shakeup as NFL Teams Make Final Cuts
As the sun sets on the NFL's roster deadline, nearly 1,200 players are left in limbo, unsure of their next professional move. By 4 p.m. ET today, every team must trim their rosters from 90 players to a lean 53, causing a whirlwind of activity and speculation across the league.
Among the significant names released are Packers kicker Anders Carlson and Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe. The list of notable cuts also includes QB Will Grier from the Eagles, QB Ben DiNucci from the Bills, RB Matt Breida from the 49ers, RB Phillip Dorsett from the Broncos, RB Myles Gaskin from the Vikings, WR Allen Robinson from the Giants, CB C.J. Henderson from the Texans, CB Tre Flowers and S Terrell Edmunds from the Jaguars, S Kareem Jackson from the Bills, and K Matthew Wright from the Steelers. More updates are available through a CUTS TRACKER and live blog that keeps fans informed in real-time.
Trades Add Complexity to the Roster Movements
Amidst the roster cuts, trades have been an essential part of the narrative. The Packers have sent QB Malik Willis to the Titans in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick. Similarly, the Chiefs traded LB Cam Thomas to the Cardinals, also for a 2025 seventh-round pick. These moves reflect strategic planning for the future, as teams not only focus on their immediate needs but also on long-term goals.
Speculations and Potential Trades
Speculation continues to swirl around several players. Broncos WR Tim Patrick and RB Samaje Perine are rumored to be candidates for either a trade or release. Another player who could be on the move is Texans RB Dameon Pierce, who is suggested as a target for the Browns. Given the dynamic state of rosters, these speculations could quickly turn into actual trades or releases.
On a similar note, Chiefs WR Skyy Moore might find a new home with the Commanders, while Patriots DB Jonathan Jones is suggested to be on the Cowboys' radar. Such moves indicate that while the regular season looms, the trade and acquisition front remains fluid and highly unpredictable.
Significant Contract Extensions
Teams are also focusing on securing long-term talent, as illustrated by the Dallas Cowboys extending WR CeeDee Lamb's contract to a four-year, $136 million deal, including a $38 million signing bonus. This substantial investment underscores the importance of maintaining a core group of performers. However, there is a reminder of fiscal prudence, as the Cowboys could have saved nearly $10 million if Lamb's deal had been completed earlier in the offseason.
With Lamb secured, the Cowboys now shift their focus to extending contracts for key players Dak Prescott and Micah Parsons, emphasizing the need for stability in critical positions.
Coaching Records Under Scrutiny
On the coaching front, the records of Jets coach Robert Saleh and Bills coach Sean McDermott are being closely examined. Saleh's tenure as the head coach of the New York Jets has yielded an 18-33 record over three seasons. While he has built one of the league's top defenses, offensive performance remains a significant issue. As one observer noted, "Imagine if this Aaron Rodgers investment does not work out. Saleh is 18-33 as head coach of the New York Jets in his three seasons, and while he's built one of the best defenses in the entire NFL, he's handled the offensive side of things poorly."
Similarly, McDermott, despite making the Buffalo Bills perennial contenders primarily due to the talent of Josh Allen, faces scrutiny. "We view McDermott's Buffalo Bills as perennial contenders due to the talented Josh Allen, but they've made the AFC Championship just once, and have now ditched a ton of their talent from last year. What if the Bills disappoint this year in what could be a very, very competitive AFC East? It feels like they could take a step backwards. McDermott is under pressure in 2024," added another analyst.
Injuries and PUP List
Injuries also play a part in shaping the roster landscape. T.J. Hockenson is on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list and will miss at least the first four games of the season. Additionally, Uchenna Nwosu will be sidelined for two to six weeks due to a knee injury, affecting the depth and readiness of their respective teams.
Off-the-Field Deals and Stadium Renaming
Off the field, the financial engagements are equally intriguing. The Kelce brothers have secured a deal worth at least $100 million for the full rights to their New Heights podcast, highlighting the lucrative potential beyond the gridiron. Meanwhile, NFL owners are anticipated to vote on a proposal allowing private equity in team ownership during a meeting in Minneapolis, a significant shift that could affect the financial landscape of the league.
Lastly, the Commanders' stadium has undergone a rebranding, now named Northwest Stadium, marking a new chapter in the team's history and its connection to the community.
As the NFL navigates through these transformative hours leading up to the regular season, fans and teams alike remain on high alert, awaiting the final touches on rosters that will define the upcoming season.