Massive Cuts Shake Up NFL Rosters Ahead of Deadline
As the clock ticks down to the 4 p.m. ET roster cut deadline, NFL teams are making significant changes, reducing their squads from 90 to 53 players. By the end of the day, nearly 1,200 players will find themselves out of a job. Among the notable releases are Packers kicker Anders Carlson and Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe.
The list of cuts also includes prominent names such as quarterbacks Will Grier (Eagles) and Ben DiNucci (Bills), running backs Matt Breida (49ers), Phillip Dorsett (Broncos), and Myles Gaskin (Vikings). Wide receiver Allen Robinson (Giants), cornerbacks C.J. Henderson (Texans) and Tre Flowers (Jaguars), safeties Terrell Edmunds (Jaguars) and Kareem Jackson (Bills), and kicker Matthew Wright (Steelers) also didn't escape the chopping block.
Trades and Contract Deals Highlight Roster Adjustments
The Packers have also been active on the trade front, sending quarterback Malik Willis to the Titans in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick. Similarly, the Chiefs have traded linebacker Cam Thomas to the Cardinals for a 2025 seventh-round pick.
Among the rampant speculation surrounding trades is the potential movement of Broncos wide receiver Tim Patrick and running back Samaje Perine, who are considered candidates for either a trade or release. There are whispers around Texans running back Dameon Pierce potentially being targeted by the Browns, while Chiefs wide receiver Skyy Moore might find a new home with the Commanders. Additionally, Patriots defensive back Jonathan Jones is rumored to be on the Cowboys' radar.
Cowboys Secure WR CeeDee Lamb with Massive Extension
In a strategic move, the Dallas Cowboys have extended wide receiver CeeDee Lamb's contract with a four-year, $136 million deal that includes a substantial $38 million signing bonus. This ensures Lamb remains a key playmaker for the Cowboys for the foreseeable future. The team's focus will now likely shift to securing new contracts for quarterback Dak Prescott and linebacker Micah Parsons. Notably, the Cowboys could have saved nearly $10 million if Lamb's deal had been completed earlier in the offseason.
Coaching Challenges and Team Investments
Jets head coach Robert Saleh finds himself under scrutiny as he holds an 18-33 record over three seasons. Jordan Dajani commented, "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 significant investment in Aaron Rodgers underscores the high stakes for the Jets this season.
Bills head coach Sean McDermott faces similar pressure. Despite the team being considered perennial contenders thanks to quarterback Josh Allen, McDermott's squad has reached the AFC Championship only once. Jordan Dajani remarked, "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 Health and New Ventures
The season's start will see several players sidelined due to injuries and health considerations. Tight end T.J. Hockenson, currently on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, will miss at least the first four games. Meanwhile, Uchenna Nwosu will be out of action for two to six weeks due to a knee injury.
Off the field, the Kelce brothers, Travis and Jason, have secured a lucrative deal worth at least $100 million for the full rights to their "New Heights" podcast, showcasing their influence beyond the gridiron.
NFL Ownership Votes and Stadium Naming Rights
In front office news, NFL owners are anticipated to vote in Minneapolis on the potential of allowing private equity in team ownership, a groundbreaking move that could reshape the financial landscape of the league.
Additionally, the Washington Commanders have renamed their stadium to Northwest Stadium, signaling a new era for the franchise.
As the NFL season rapidly approaches, teams are making critical decisions that will define their futures. With roster cuts, trades, and significant contracts in play, the landscape of the league is evolving in real-time. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring the impact of these moves as the excitement of the new season builds.