As the NFL approaches its final roster cuts deadline, the stakes are high for nearly 1,200 players who will be jobless by 4 p.m. ET. This annual trimming of rosters from 90 down to 53 players signifies not only the end of preseason but also the start of a new chapter for many aspiring players and experienced veterans.
Key Roster Cuts and Trades
Some notable names have already hit the chopping block. Among the released are Packers kicker Anders Carlson and Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe. The list of released players also includes quarterbacks Will Grier from the Eagles and Ben DiNucci from the Bills, along with RB Matt Breida (49ers), RB Phillip Dorsett (Broncos), and RB Myles Gaskin (Vikings). Additionally, 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) have been let go.
In a move that's garnered considerable attention, the Packers traded QB Malik Willis to the Titans in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick. Similarly, the Chiefs have sent LB Cam Thomas to the Cardinals for a 2025 seventh-round pick.
Speculative Moves and Targets
Alongside these decisive actions, speculation continues to swirl around a few players. Broncos WR Tim Patrick and RB Samaje Perine are believed to be candidates for either a trade or release. Meanwhile, Texans RB Dameon Pierce appears to be a potential target for the Browns, and Chiefs WR Skyy Moore has been linked with the Commanders. Furthermore, Patriots DB Jonathan Jones is reportedly on the Cowboys' radar.
Cowboys and Contract Extensions
The Dallas Cowboys have been proactive in securing their talent, extending WR CeeDee Lamb's contract with a lucrative four-year, $136 million deal that includes a $38 million signing bonus. This extension shifts the Cowboys' focus towards securing new contracts for key players Dak Prescott and Micah Parsons. Interestingly, had this deal been completed earlier in the offseason, the Cowboys could have saved nearly $10 million.
Coaching and Team Updates
Jets coach Robert Saleh's tenure with an 18-33 record over three seasons has been under scrutiny. Despite building one of the best defensive units in the NFL, Saleh's management of the offensive side has room for improvement. Jordan Dajani states, "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 Aaron Rodgers amplifies the pressure on Saleh. The situation is similarly intense for Bills coach Sean McDermott. Though McDermott's team is often seen as a perennial contender due to the talented Josh Allen, they have only reached the AFC Championship once, leading to some questions about their true championship potential. Dajani comments, "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."
Player Injuries and Other Notable Developments
The injury list continues to affect teams' strategies heading into the regular season. T.J. Hockenson, placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, will miss at least the first four games of the season. Additionally, Uchenna Nwosu will be sidelined for two to six weeks due to a knee injury.
Off the field, the NFL's revenue dynamics are seeing shifts as well. The Kelce brothers have secured a deal worth at least $100 million for the full rights to their New Heights podcast. In another significant development, NFL owners are anticipated to vote in Minneapolis on the potential of allowing private equity in team ownership.
In franchise news, the Commanders' stadium has been renamed to Northwest Stadium, marking another chapter in the team's evolving identity.
With all these changes in the air, NFL teams and fans alike are bracing for an exhilarating season ahead. As always, the blend of strategy, talent, and unforeseen events will keep the football world on its toes.