Massive Roster Shakeups as NFL Teams Trim to 53
As the clock hits 4 p.m. ET, NFL teams have already started executing drastic roster changes, slicing their lineups from 90 down to 53 players. This reduction means nearly 1,200 NFL players will face unemployment by day's end, a harsh reality in the competitive world of professional football. Among the notables cut today, the Green Bay Packers have parted ways with kicker Anders Carlson, and the New England Patriots have released quarterback Bailey Zappe.
Notable Releases Across the League
The cuts have touched every team, leading to some surprising releases. Quarterbacks Will Grier of the Eagles and Ben DiNucci of the Bills have both been let go. The San Francisco 49ers have released running back Matt Breida, while the Denver Broncos have cut running back Phillip Dorsett. Meanwhile, the Vikings decided to part with running back Myles Gaskin, and the Giants have released wide receiver Allen Robinson. There were also significant defensive cuts, including cornerbacks C.J. Henderson from the Texans and Tre Flowers from the Jaguars, along with safeties Terrell Edmunds and Kareem Jackson. The Steelers' decision to release kicker Matthew Wright also raised eyebrows.
For those who want to stay updated on every cut as it happens, a CUTS TRACKER and live blog are available to provide real-time updates.
Trades and Speculations Stir the Pot
Trades have also been a part of today's transactions. The Packers traded quarterback Malik Willis to the Tennessee Titans in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick. Not to be outdone, the Kansas City Chiefs sent linebacker Cam Thomas to the Arizona Cardinals, also for a 2025 seventh-round pick.
Speculation surrounds several players as the day progresses. The Broncos' wide receiver Tim Patrick and running back Samaje Perine are both potential candidates for either a trade or release. Additionally, Texans' running back Dameon Pierce is reportedly being eyed by the Browns. The Chiefs' wide receiver Skyy Moore could find himself relocating to the Commanders, while Patriots' defensive back Jonathan Jones appears to be on the Cowboys' radar.
Significant Contract Extensions
In addition to roster cuts and trades, significant player contracts have also been extended. The Dallas Cowboys have made a substantial commitment to wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, extending his contract with a four-year, $136 million extension, which includes a $38 million signing bonus. With Lamb secured, the Cowboys now shift their focus to forging new contracts for quarterback Dak Prescott and linebacker Micah Parsons.
It's noteworthy that the Cowboys could have saved nearly $10 million had they completed Lamb's deal earlier in the offseason, a lesson on the importance of timing in contract negotiations.
Coaching Under the Microscope
The spotlight isn't solely on players during these roster adjustments. Coaches are also feeling the heat. Jets coach Robert Saleh, who has a lackluster 18-33 record over three seasons, has been labeled a defensive guru but criticized for his management of the offensive side. Jordan Dajani aptly summarized the situation, stating, "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."
Meanwhile, Bills coach Sean McDermott's tenure is under scrutiny despite the team's significant investment in quarterback Aaron Rodgers. McDermott, who has led the Bills to the AFC Championship just once, faces mounting pressure. "We view McDermott's Buffalo Bills as perennial contenders due to the talented Josh Allen," Dajani remarked. "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."
Injury Updates
Injuries have also impacted several lineups. Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson has been placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, sidelining him for at least the first four games of the season. Meanwhile, Uchenna Nwosu will miss two to six weeks due to a knee injury.
Off-Field Developments
Beyond the field, there have been significant financial and business developments. The Kelce brothers have secured a lucrative deal of at least $100 million for the full rights to their New Heights podcast. Moreover, NFL owners are anticipated to vote in Minneapolis on the potential of allowing private equity in team ownership—a move that could reshape the financial landscape of the league.
Stadium Renaming
Lastly, the Commanders' stadium has undergone a name change and will now be known as Northwest Stadium, marking a new era for the team's home field.
As the day progresses, countless more updates and changes are expected as teams finalize their rosters for the upcoming NFL season. The blend of player releases, trades, contract extensions, and ongoing speculation promises an intriguing start to the season.