The NFL's 32 teams have set their rosters for the season, reducing their squads from 90 players to the in-season maximum of 53. These decisions reflect both strategic planning and reactive measures to preseason performances.
Quarterback Decisions Across the League
The Atlanta Falcons have opted to retain three quarterbacks on their roster: Kirk Cousins, Michael Penix Jr., and Taylor Heinicke. Heinicke, despite a preseason completion rate of just 45.5%, did enough to secure his spot.
In a surprising cut, the Green Bay Packers released their two rookie quarterbacks, Sean Clifford from Penn State and Michael Pratt from Tulane. This decision may have seemed peculiar given their draft investments, but the Packers’ subsequent actions make the strategy clearer. Green Bay traded for Malik Willis from the Tennessee Titans, signaling their commitment to revamping their quarterback room. Additionally, they made a significant change at the kicker position, cutting Anders Carlson, a sixth-round pick from 2023, and signing Greg Joseph.
Tennessee Titans' Defensive Moves
The Tennessee Titans, known for their defensive prowess, significantly bolstered their secondary and defensive line. They acquired cornerbacks L'Jarius Sneed and Chidobe Awuzie, safeties Quandre Diggs and Jamal Adams, and linebacker Kenneth Murray. Further strengthening their defense, the Titans added defensive linemen Sebastian Joseph-Day and rookie T'Vondre Sweat. On the offensive side, they welcomed Tyler Boyd, a running back, center Lloyd Cushenberry, and offensive tackle JC Latham.
Significant Trades and Cuts
The Carolina Panthers made a bold move by cutting wide receiver Terrace Marshall Jr., a decision spearheaded by GM Dan Morgan and head coach Dave Canales. They then traded cornerback Donte Jackson and a sixth-round pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers in return for wide receiver Diontae Johnson and a seventh-round pick. This trade seems to anticipate a focus on offensive versatility, supported by the Panthers’ use of three of their first four picks in the 2024 NFL Draft on offensive playmakers.
The Chicago Bears solidified their quarterback roster by securing Tyson Bagent as the backup quarterback for the second consecutive year. Conversely, Desmond Ridder lost his backup role to Clayton Tune, marking a significant shift in the team's quarterback dynamic.
Player Movements and Performances
Despite an impressive preseason where he caught all five of his targets, Tim Patrick was released by the Denver Broncos. However, his stint in free agency didn’t last long, as the Detroit Lions promptly signed him. The Lions also added Hendon Hooker as their new backup quarterback. Hooker had a productive preseason, completing 29 of 44 passes for 300 yards and rushing for 138 yards.
The Cincinnati Bengals made a notable cut by releasing Jackson Carman, a second-round pick from 2021. However, they strengthened their protection unit by securing Trent Brown and Amarius Mims. In a quarterback shift, the Jacksonville Jaguars acquired Mac Jones from the New England Patriots. Jones demonstrated his abilities in the preseason, completing 73.1% of his passes for 421 yards and delivering three touchdowns.
Texans and Bills Adjustments
On the Texans’ front, wide receiver Noah Brown was released, possibly to make space for Tank Dell, who is fully recovered and poised to contribute significantly. The Buffalo Bills also made a cut, releasing Frank Gore Jr., who had shown promise by rushing for 101 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries during the preseason.
As teams finalize their rosters and make strategic adjustments, these moves underscore the dynamic nature of the NFL. Each decision, cut, and trade is a calculated step aimed at optimizing performance for the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how these roster changes play out on the field.