Massive Roster Shifts as NFL Teams Trim Down
As the NFL approaches its final roster cut deadline, nearly 1,200 players find themselves facing uncertain futures. All 32 teams must narrow their rosters from 90 to 53 players by 4 p.m. ET, causing a flurry of releases and trades across the league.
In a rush to finalize their rosters, several notable names have been released. The Packers parted ways with kicker Anders Carlson while the Patriots let go of quarterback Bailey Zappe. Other significant cuts include quarterbacks Will Grier (Eagles) and Ben DiNucci (Bills), running backs Matt Breida (49ers), Phillip Dorsett (Broncos), Myles Gaskin (Vikings), and wide receiver Allen Robinson (Giants).
Defensive players haven't been spared either, with cornerbacks C.J. Henderson (Texans) and Tre Flowers (Jaguars), and safeties Terrell Edmunds (Jaguars) and Kareem Jackson (Bills) also released. Kicker Matthew Wright has been cut from the Steelers, adding to the list of high-profile departures.
Trades are also shaking up the league. The Packers have sent quarterback Malik Willis to the Titans in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick, while the Chiefs have traded linebacker Cam Thomas to the Cardinals for another 2025 seventh-round selection.
Potential Moves and Speculations
Speculations indicate that Broncos wide receiver Tim Patrick and running back Samaje Perine may be on the move, either through trades or releases. Similarly, Texans running back Dameon Pierce is rumored to be a target for the Browns, while the Chiefs' wide receiver Skyy Moore could potentially join the Commanders. On the defensive side, Patriots defensive back Jonathan Jones is drawing interest from the Cowboys.
Noteworthy Extensions and Contracts
In the midst of the roster overhaul, the Dallas Cowboys have made significant financial commitments. The team has extended wide receiver CeeDee Lamb's contract, inking a four-year, $136 million deal that includes a $38 million signing bonus. The Cowboys' front office isn't stopping there as their focus now shifts to securing new deals for quarterback Dak Prescott and linebacker Micah Parsons.
Coaching Records and Investments
The Jets, under the leadership of head coach Robert Saleh, have garnered attention for their substantial investment in Aaron Rodgers. Saleh currently holds an 18-33 record over three seasons. Sports analyst Jordan Dajani recently commented, "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, high expectations are placed on Bills coach Sean McDermott. Despite having star quarterback Josh Allen, the team has only managed to reach the AFC Championship once. Dajani notes, "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."
Injuries Impacting the Season
Several key players will start the season on the sidelines. T.J. Hockenson is on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list and will miss at least the first four games of the season, while Uchenna Nwosu will be sidelined for two to six weeks due to a knee injury.
Media and Ownership Developments
Off the field, notable developments include the Kelce brothers securing a deal worth at least $100 million for the full rights to their "New Heights" podcast. Additionally, an important vote by NFL owners in Minneapolis is anticipated, potentially allowing private equity in team ownership. As part of ongoing changes, the Commanders' stadium has been renamed to Northwest Stadium.
As the frenzy of roster cuts and trades concludes, teams are now solidifying their lineups, navigating injuries, and making strategic off-field moves to prepare for the NFL season ahead. The ever-evolving landscape ensures that fans will have plenty to discuss as the season unfolds.