The final week leading up to the 2024 NFL season has been a whirlwind of activity as teams across the league make crucial roster adjustments. With the mandate to trim down from as many as 90 players to a final 53-man roster, significant trades, waivers, and releases have taken place, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting season.
Dallas Cowboys and Kansas City Chiefs Exchange
In a notable move, the Dallas Cowboys traded tight end Peyton Hendershot to the Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for a conditional late-round draft pick. Hendershot, who has shown promise as a versatile player, is expected to compete for a backup role behind the Chiefs' star tight end, Travis Kelce. This move shores up Kansas City's depth at the tight end position, providing them with more options and flexibility as they head into the new season.
Arizona Cardinals Active in the Trade Market
The Arizona Cardinals have been particularly active, engaging in multiple transactions. They traded linebacker Cameron Thomas to the Kansas City Chiefs for a seventh-round pick. Thomas, a third-round pick from the 2022 draft, will add depth to the Chiefs' linebacker corps and is expected to make an immediate impact.
Additionally, the Cardinals traded linebacker Ernest Jones to the Tennessee Titans, a move that included a 2026 sixth-round pick in exchange for a 2025 fifth-round pick. Jones has been a key figure for the Cardinals, serving as a starting inside linebacker and team captain. His leadership and experience will be valuable assets for the Titans' defense.
Malik Willis Joins the Green Bay Packers
The Tennessee Titans, not content to stand pat, traded quarterback Malik Willis to the Green Bay Packers. The deal involved a seventh-round pick, and Willis is set to serve as the backup to Jordan Love. In a corresponding move, the Packers released fellow 2022 draft pick Sean Clifford.
This transaction provides the Packers with a promising young quarterback to develop behind Love, while Willis gets the opportunity to learn and grow in a new environment.
Jacksonville Jaguars Strengthen Seahawks' Defensive Line
In another significant trade, the Jacksonville Jaguars sent defensive lineman Trevis Gipson to the Seattle Seahawks for a 2025 sixth-round pick. This trade comes at a time when the Seahawks are dealing with the absence of edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu, who is sidelined with a sprained MCL. Gipson's addition will bolster Seattle's defensive line and provide much-needed support in Nwosu's absence.
Chris Williams Moves to the Chicago Bears
The Cleveland Browns traded defensive lineman Chris Williams to the Chicago Bears. Williams was sent to the Bears along with a seventh-round pick, with the Browns receiving a sixth-round pick in return. After spending last season on the practice squad, Williams will now have the opportunity to earn a spot on the Bears' active roster and contribute to their defensive efforts.
Seahawks and Bears Swap Defensive Talent
The Seattle Seahawks continued to be active in the trade market, sending Darrell Taylor to the Chicago Bears for a 2025 sixth-round pick. Taylor's move to the Bears comes as the team seeks to address their defensive needs and add depth to their roster.
New York Jets and Buffalo Bills Exchange Special Teams Players
The New York Jets traded defensive back and return specialist Brandon Codrington to the Buffalo Bills. In return, the Jets received a swap of late-round picks in 2026. Codrington, known for his versatility on special teams, will provide the Bills with a reliable option in the return game while also adding depth to their secondary.
These roster moves are a testament to the dynamic nature of the NFL as teams strive to optimize their lineups ahead of the new season. With these critical adjustments, fans can expect fresh faces and new competition as the countdown to kickoff continues.