Nearly 1,200 NFL players will find themselves unemployed by the end of the day as teams across the league trim their rosters from 90 players to the final 53. The deadline for these roster cuts is set at 4 p.m. ET, an agonizing countdown for hopefuls clinging to their NFL dreams.
Among those released are notable names including Packers kicker Anders Carlson and Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe. The list of significant cuts stretches further, encompassing players such as QB Will Grier (Eagles), QB Ben DiNucci (Bills), RB Matt Breida (49ers), RB Phillip Dorsett (Broncos), RB Myles Gaskin (Vikings), WR Allen Robinson (Giants), CB C.J. Henderson (Texans), CB Tre Flowers (Jaguars), S Terrell Edmunds (Jaguars), S Kareem Jackson (Bills), and K Matthew Wright (Steelers). These decisions reflect the relentless competitiveness and the ever-fluctuating landscape of the NFL.
For those eager for real-time updates, a CUTS TRACKER and a live blog are readily available, offering comprehensive coverage on the roster changes as they happen.
Trade Movements
Amid the roster shakeup, trades have also caught the league's attention. The Packers exchanged QB Malik Willis for a seventh-round pick in 2025 from the Titans, signaling a strategic move for future gains. Similarly, the Chiefs sent LB Cam Thomas to the Cardinals in exchange for a seventh-round pick in the same year.
The speculation also intensifies around potential moves. Broncos WR Tim Patrick and RB Samaje Perine have surfaced as candidates either for trade or release, while Texans RB Dameon Pierce is viewed as a potential target for the Browns. Chiefs WR Skyy Moore may find a new role with the Commanders, and Patriots DB Jonathan Jones has drawn interest from the Cowboys.
Contract Extensions and Financial Moves
In a significant contract extension, the Dallas Cowboys ensured the future of WR CeeDee Lamb with a four-year, $136 million deal, which includes a $38 million signing bonus. With Lamb’s contract secured, the Cowboys' management shifts its focus toward locking in new agreements with QB Dak Prescott and LB Micah Parsons. The timing of Lamb's deal, however, could have been more financially prudent for the team, as earlier completion could have saved the franchise nearly $10 million.
Coaching and Performance Pressures
Pressure mounts within coaching ranks as well. Jets head coach Robert Saleh's tenure has been marked by an 18-33 record over three seasons. Despite constructing one of the NFL’s most formidable defenses, Saleh's handling of the offensive side has drawn scrutiny. "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," said sports analyst Jordan Dajani. The Jets have made a substantial investment in bringing Aaron Rodgers onboard, betting heavily on his prowess to turn their fortunes around.
Meanwhile, Sean McDermott of the Bills, despite leading a team with perennial contender status thanks to quarterback Josh Allen, has reached the AFC Championship only once. The Bills have made waves with notable roster changes from last year. "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," Dajani added, highlighting the high stakes for Buffalo's upcoming season.
Injury Updates and Future Prospects
Injury updates also shape the narrative as the season nears. Tight end T.J. Hockenson finds himself on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, sidelining him for at least the season's first four games. Uchenna Nwosu faces a two to six-week absence due to a knee injury, posing challenges for player rotation and team strategy.
Business and Stadium Developments
Off the field, significant business dealings continue to unfold. The Kelce brothers have reportedly secured a deal worth at least $100 million for the full rights to their New Heights podcast, exemplifying the lucrative opportunities beyond the gridiron. Additionally, an anticipated vote by NFL owners in Minneapolis could open the door to private equity in team ownership, potentially reshaping the financial landscape of the league.
Finally, the Commanders' stadium has been rechristened as Northwest Stadium, symbolizing both a physical and symbolic change as they move forward into the new season.