The week leading up to the 2024 NFL season kickoff is always a whirlwind of activity, as teams hustle to make crucial roster adjustments. This year is no different, with numerous trades and releases executed to pare down to the mandated 53 players per team from an initial count that can reach up to 90.
Notable Trades and Roster Moves
The Dallas Cowboys made headlines by trading tight end Peyton Hendershot to the Kansas City Chiefs. The deal, involving a conditional late-round draft pick, places Hendershot in a position to vie for a backup role behind the prolific Travis Kelce. This move could prove beneficial for both teams, as the Chiefs bolster their depth at tight end, providing additional support for their high-flying offense.
The Arizona Cardinals were particularly active, making two significant trades. Firstly, they sent linebacker Cameron Thomas to the Kansas City Chiefs for a seventh-round pick. Thomas, a third-round pick from the 2022 draft, will look to make an impact on the Chiefs' defensive squad.
Additionally, the Cardinals traded linebacker Ernest Jones to the Tennessee Titans. In a transaction that included the Rams, the Cardinals received a 2025 fifth-round pick while parting with a 2026 sixth-round pick. Jones, who has been a starting inside linebacker and team captain, will seek to bring his leadership and experience to the Titans.
Another quarterback shuffle occurred with the Tennessee Titans trading Malik Willis to the Green Bay Packers. This deal, which also involved a seventh-round pick, positions Willis as the backup to Jordan Love. As a result, the Packers released fellow 2022 draft pick Sean Clifford to make space on the roster.
Defensive Line Shifts
The Jacksonville Jaguars addressed their defensive line by trading defensive lineman Trevis Gipson to the Seattle Seahawks for a 2025 sixth-round pick. This move comes as the Seahawks manage the absence of edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu, who is currently sidelined due to a sprained MCL. Gipson's addition is likely aimed at shoring up the Seahawks' pass rush in Nwosu's absence.
Similarly, the Cleveland Browns executed a trade, sending defensive lineman Chris Williams to the Chicago Bears. The deal included a swap of a seventh-round pick for a sixth-round pick. Williams spent last season on the practice squad but now has an opportunity to prove his worth on the Bears' active roster.
Continuing in the defensive vein, the Seattle Seahawks traded Darrell Taylor to the Chicago Bears for a 2025 sixth-round pick. This transaction highlights the Bears’ determination to strengthen their defensive line as they look forward to the new season.
Special Teams and Depth Moves
Meanwhile, the New York Jets focused on special teams by trading 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 a return specialist adds another dimension to the Bills' special teams unit.
These trades and roster moves encapsulate the high-stakes, strategic maneuvers typical of the final week before the NFL season begins. Teams are meticulously crafting their rosters, balancing immediate needs with future aspirations, and ensuring they have the depth and talent required to endure the long season ahead. As the opening games approach, fans eagerly await to see how these new acquisitions will integrate and perform on the gridiron.
In summary, the pre-season adjustments demonstrate the NFL's dynamic nature, where every decision can ripple through the entire season. Whether it’s a seasoned veteran or a promising young player, each addition and subtraction is made with precision, readying teams for the challenges of the 2024 campaign. As teams lock in their rosters, the anticipation builds for what promises to be another exhilarating NFL season.