Nearly 1,200 NFL players are facing the harsh reality of roster cuts as teams trim down from 90 players to the final 53. The deadline for these decisions is set for 4 p.m. ET, marking a day of significant movement within the league.
Several notable names have already been let go in this annual churn. Among them, Packers kicker Anders Carlson and Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe were released, showing that no position is safe from scrutiny. The list of releases also includes quarterbacks Will Grier (Eagles) and Ben DiNucci (Bills), running backs Matt Breida (49ers), Phillip Dorsett (Broncos), and Myles Gaskin (Vikings), among others. High-profile wide receivers like Allen Robinson (Giants) and defensive backs such as C.J. Henderson (Texans) and Terrell Edmunds (Jaguars) have also been shown the door.
Trades and Speculation
While some players are being released, others are finding new homes through trades. The Packers traded QB Malik Willis to the Titans for a 2025 seventh-round pick, and the Chiefs sent linebacker Cam Thomas to the Cardinals for a similar pick. These moves illustrate the strategic nature of roster calibration as teams look to balance immediate needs with future potential.
There is also growing speculation about potential trades or releases. Broncos wide receiver Tim Patrick and running back Samaje Perine are among the names being floated as candidates for such moves. Meanwhile, Texans running back Dameon Pierce is suggested as a target for the Browns, and Chiefs wide receiver Skyy Moore might find a new home with the Commanders. Additionally, Patriots defensive back Jonathan Jones appears to be on the Cowboys' radar.
Contract Extensions and Focus Areas
The Dallas Cowboys have been proactive in securing their key playmaker, extending wide receiver CeeDee Lamb's contract with a four-year, $136 million deal that includes a $38 million signing bonus. This sizeable investment indicates the importance of Lamb to the Cowboys' offensive strategy. The focus for Dallas now shifts to securing new contracts for quarterback Dak Prescott and defensive star Micah Parsons. Interestingly, the Cowboys could have saved nearly $10 million had they completed Lamb's deal earlier in the offseason.
Coaches Under Pressure
Jets coach Robert Saleh, with an 18-33 record over three seasons, is feeling the heat. Jordan Dajani captures the sentiment perfectly: "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." The Jets' significant investment in veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers underscores the urgency for immediate results.
Sean McDermott, coach of the Buffalo Bills, also finds himself under scrutiny. Despite having quarterback Josh Allen, one of the league's brightest talents, the Bills have only reached the AFC Championship once under McDermott's guidance. Dajani remarks, "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 and Other Developments
Tight end T.J. Hockenson will miss at least the first four games of the season due to being placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. This absence could significantly impact his team's offensive dynamics. Meanwhile, Uchenna Nwosu is sidelined for two to six weeks with a knee injury, further complicating the defensive plans for his team.
On a brighter note, the Kelce brothers have secured a landmark deal for their New Heights podcast, valued at least $100 million, showcasing the growing commercial opportunities for NFL players beyond the field. Additionally, NFL owners are expected to vote soon on allowing private equity in team ownership, a move that could reshape the financial landscape of the league.
In stadium-related news, the Commanders’ home has been renamed to Northwest Stadium, marking another shift in the ever-evolving brand identities within the NFL.
As the clock ticks down to the roster cut deadline, the moves and decisions made today will shape the landscapes of teams for the upcoming season, bringing hope, disappointment, and a flurry of activity across the NFL.