As the anticipation intensifies for the 2024 NFL season, teams are in a frenzy of roster adjustments during the critical final week before kickoff. The challenge for each franchise is to pare down their rosters from as many as 90 players to the mandated 53. This has led to a flurry of trades, waivers, and releases, significantly impacting team compositions across the league.
Dallas Cowboys and Kansas City Chiefs Deal
Among the most notable moves, the Dallas Cowboys traded tight end Peyton Hendershot to the Kansas City Chiefs for a conditional late-round draft pick. Hendershot is anticipated to vie for a backup role behind star tight end Travis Kelce. This could potentially bolster the Chiefs' offensive depth, providing a reliable option when Kelce needs a breather or in case of injury.
Cardinals' Active Trade Market
The Arizona Cardinals were particularly active. They dealt linebacker Cameron Thomas to the Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for a seventh-round pick. Thomas, a third-round pick from the 2022 draft, will aim to make an impact on the Chiefs' defense, potentially strengthening their linebacker corps.
The Cardinals didn’t stop there. They also traded linebacker Ernest Jones to the Tennessee Titans. This deal included a 2026 sixth-round pick from the Rams in exchange for a 2025 fifth-round pick. Jones, a key figure as a starting inside linebacker and team captain, will bring leadership and robust defensive skills to the Titans, who are continually seeking to solidify their defense.
Quarterbacks on the Move
Another significant transaction involved the Tennessee Titans and Green Bay Packers. The Titans traded quarterback Malik Willis to the Packers, with the deal including a seventh-round pick. Willis is set to serve as the backup to Jordan Love, adding depth to the Packers' quarterback roster. Subsequently, the Packers released fellow 2022 draft pick Sean Clifford, indicating their confidence in Willis as a reliable second-string quarterback.
Defensive Trades Creating Waves
The Jacksonville Jaguars made headlines by trading defensive lineman Trevis Gipson to the Seattle Seahawks. In exchange, the Jaguars received a 2025 sixth-round pick. Gipson’s addition to the Seahawks comes at a crucial time as edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu is currently sidelined with a sprained MCL. This move underscores the Seahawks' urgent need to fortify their defensive line amidst injury concerns.
Likewise, the Cleveland Browns traded defensive lineman Chris Williams to the Chicago Bears. This deal saw Williams accompanied by a seventh-round pick, while the Browns received a sixth-round pick in return. Williams, who spent last season on the practice squad, will look for opportunities to prove his worth on the Bears’ roster.
Additionally, the Seahawks traded Darrell Taylor to the Bears for a 2025 sixth-round pick. This transaction is yet another move by Chicago to enhance their defensive unit, which has been an area of focus this offseason.
Special Teams Adjustments
Lastly, the New York Jets dealt defensive back and return specialist Brandon Codrington to the Buffalo Bills. In exchange, the Jets received a swap of late-round picks in 2026. Codrington’s versatility as both a defensive back and return specialist makes him a valuable asset to the Bills, potentially boosting their special teams performance.
These roster moves, trades, and releases are a testament to the strategic maneuvers teams employ as they finalize their lineups for the imminent season. Each transaction could play a pivotal role in shaping the competitive landscape of the 2024 NFL season.