Massive NFL Roster Shake-up as Teams Trim Down
As today’s 4 p.m. ET deadline for NFL roster cuts looms, nearly 1,200 players will find themselves out of a job when teams across the league reduce their rosters from 90 to 53 players. These decisions are often some of the most difficult parts of the preseason, with both seasoned veterans and eager rookies being shown the door.
Among the latest rounds of cuts, several notable names have been released. Packers kicker Anders Carlson and Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe are just two of the players now looking for new opportunities. Meanwhile, other prominent players such as QB Will Grier (Eagles), QB Ben DiNucci (Bills), RB Matt Breida (49ers), RB Phillip Dorsett (Broncos), RB Myles Gaskin (Vikings), WR Allen Robinson (Giants), CB C.J. Henderson (Texans), CB Tre Flowers (Jaguars), S Terrell Edmunds (Jaguars), S Kareem Jackson (Bills), and K Matthew Wright (Steelers) find themselves in the same uncertain position.
As teams shuffle and strategize, a CUTS TRACKER and a live blog are available to keep fans updated on the real-time changes. Meanwhile, roster cuts aren’t the only moves shaking up the league. Packers quarterback Malik Willis has been traded to the Titans for a 2025 seventh-round draft pick. Similarly, the Chiefs have sent linebacker Cam Thomas to the Cardinals in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick.
Speculation continues to swirl around certain players who could face either a trade or release. Broncos wide receiver Tim Patrick and running back Samaje Perine are prominent figures in these discussions. Texans running back Dameon Pierce is suggested to be a target for the Browns, adding to the potential shifts in team dynamics. Chiefs wide receiver Skyy Moore might also find a new home with the Commanders. Patriots defensive back Jonathan Jones is reportedly on the Cowboys' radar as well.
In a significant financial maneuver, the Dallas Cowboys have extended wide receiver CeeDee Lamb's contract with a four-year, $136 million deal that includes a substantial $38 million signing bonus. This strategic move comes just in time for the season, although it’s worth noting that the Cowboys could have saved nearly $10 million if Lamb's deal had been completed earlier in the offseason. With Lamb’s deal now secure, the Cowboys are focusing on new contracts for quarterback Dak Prescott and linebacker Micah Parsons, aiming to solidify the core of their team for the future.
While teams work to finalize their rosters, individual performances and coaching under scrutiny add another layer of intrigue. For example, Jets coach Robert Saleh holds an 18-33 record over his three seasons. Despite assembling one of the best defenses in the league, he's been criticized for his handling of the offensive side of the team. “Imagine if this Aaron Rodgers investment does not work out,” speculates Jordan Dajani. “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.”
The significant investment in Aaron Rodgers by the Jets further highlights the high stakes. Rodgers' presence is expected to be a game-changer, but if things don't pan out as hoped, the ramifications could be severe.
In Buffalo, coach Sean McDermott is facing his own pressures. Although the team is often seen as perennial contenders thanks to the talent of quarterback Josh Allen, they have only made the AFC Championship once. “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,” comments Dajani. “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.”
Elsewhere, player injuries continue to impact team rosters and strategies. Tight end T.J. Hockenson starts the season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, sidelining him for at least the first four games. Additionally, linebacker Uchenna Nwosu will miss two to six weeks due to a knee injury.
Off the field, the Kelce brothers have secured a deal worth at least $100 million for the rights to their popular podcast, "New Heights." This lucrative deal underscores the growing intersection of sports and media, where players are expanding their influence and reach beyond the football field.
Looking ahead, NFL owners are anticipated to vote on a significant proposal allowing private equity in team ownership during their meeting in Minneapolis. The potential decision could reshape the financial landscape of team ownership within the league.
Finally, the Commanders' stadium has received a rebranding, now known as Northwest Stadium, marking another change in the dynamic world of the NFL.