The NFL roster cut deadline has always been a day of drama, making or breaking careers within mere hours. This year's deadline was no exception as nearly 1,200 NFL players found themselves without a job by the end of the day, with teams trimming their rosters from 90 players down to 53 players before the 4 p.m. ET cutoff.
Among the notable releases, Packers kicker Anders Carlson and Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe were let go. The list extends with recognizable names like 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). Fans and analysts alike can follow the ongoing roster changes through a CUTS TRACKER and a live blog that provide real-time updates.
The Packers and the Chiefs also made strategic trades to finalize their rosters. The Packers sent QB Malik Willis to the Titans in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick, while the Chiefs traded LB Cam Thomas to the Cardinals, also for a 2025 seventh-round pick. These final minute moves underscore the dynamic nature of NFL roster adjustments.
Speculations and Targets
Speculation continues to swirl around the futures of some notable players. Broncos WR Tim Patrick and RB Samaje Perine have been mentioned as possible candidates for either a trade or release, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the roster shakeups. Texans RB Dameon Pierce has emerged as a potential target for the Browns, while Chiefs WR Skyy Moore might find a new home with the Commanders. Additionally, Patriots DB Jonathan Jones is reportedly on the Cowboys' radar.
Contract Extensions and Investments
On the contracts front, the Dallas Cowboys have made a significant move by extending WR CeeDee Lamb's contract. The four-year, $136 million extension includes a $38 million signing bonus. Following this deal, the Cowboys have now turned their focus to negotiating new contracts for key players Dak Prescott and Micah Parsons. Interestingly, the team could have saved nearly $10 million if Lamb’s deal had been completed earlier in the offseason.
This news comes amid broader speculation regarding the Jets and their investment in Aaron Rodgers. "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," remarked Jordan Dajani.
Season Ups and Downs
The NFL season is not without its setbacks. T.J. Hockenson is currently on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list and will miss at least the first four games. Meanwhile, Uchenna Nwosu will be sidelined for two to six weeks due to a knee injury. Conversely, the Kelce brothers have scored off the field, securing a lucrative deal worth at least $100 million for the full rights to their New Heights podcast.
Potential structural changes within the NFL are on the horizon. A much-anticipated vote by NFL owners in Minneapolis could open the door to allowing private equity in team ownership, a move that could significantly alter the business landscape of the league.
In and Out of the Stadium
The Commanders have also made headlines by renaming their stadium to Northwest Stadium, a change that will undoubtedly take some getting used to for fans and commentators alike.
Meanwhile, pressure mounts on the coaches of prominent teams. "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," noted Jordan Dajani.
As the NFL embarks on a new season, teams face the relentless pressure of making strategic decisions that could define their success or failure. With every cut, trade, and contract extension, the dynamics of the league shift, offering a renewed sense of excitement and anticipation for fans across the globe.