Nearly 1,200 NFL players will find themselves without a job by the end of the day, as teams across the league frantically trim their rosters from 90 players to 53. The deadline for these critical roster cuts looms at 4 p.m. ET, and already, notable names are being shown the door.
Among the early casualties, Packers kicker Anders Carlson and Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe have been released, illustrating just how high-stakes these decisions can be. Other significant releases include quarterbacks Will Grier (Eagles) and Ben DiNucci (Bills), running backs Matt Breida (49ers), Phillip Dorsett (Broncos), Myles Gaskin (Vikings), and wide receiver Allen Robinson (Giants). The defensive side is not spared, with cornerbacks C.J. Henderson (Texans) and Tre Flowers (Jaguars), safeties Terrell Edmunds (Jaguars) and Kareem Jackson (Bills), and kicker Matthew Wright (Steelers) also getting cut.
Trades have also been making headlines. The Packers have sent QB Malik Willis to the Titans in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick, while the Chiefs have traded linebacker Cam Thomas to the Cardinals for a similar 2025 seventh-round pick. Speculation is rampant regarding the futures of Broncos WR Tim Patrick and RB Samaje Perine, who might be traded or released in the coming hours.
Potential Targets for Trades
The trade rumor mill is churning with the possibility of Texans RB Dameon Pierce heading to the Browns and Chiefs WR Skyy Moore potentially finding a new home with the Commanders. Additionally, Patriots DB Jonathan Jones has caught the eye of the Dallas Cowboys.
Cowboys Secure Key Contract Extensions
In a move to solidify their offensive firepower, the Cowboys have extended WR CeeDee Lamb's contract with a lucrative four-year, $136 million extension, which includes a $38 million signing bonus. This significant extension shifts the Cowboys’ focus to securing new contracts for their star quarterback Dak Prescott and standout linebacker Micah Parsons.
Interestingly, had the Cowboys wrapped up Lamb's deal earlier in the offseason, they could have saved nearly $10 million, highlighting the financial complexities and strategic timing often involved in these high-stakes negotiations.
Jets' Gamble on Aaron Rodgers
Meanwhile, the New York Jets have placed a significant bet on Aaron Rodgers to turn around their fortunes. Under head coach Robert Saleh, who holds an 18-33 record over three seasons, the Jets have built one of the best defenses in the NFL but have struggled offensively. "Imagine if this Aaron Rodgers investment does not work out," Jordan Dajani speculates. "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."
Pressure Mounts on Buffalo's McDermott
Buffalo Bills coach Sean McDermott is facing mounting pressure as well. The Bills, often seen as perennial contenders thanks to their star quarterback Josh Allen, have made it to the AFC Championship just once under McDermott's tenure. "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," Dajani points out. "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 and Player Performances
On the injury front, T.J. Hockenson's stint on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list will sideline him for at least the first four games of the season. Uchenna Nwosu will also be out for two to six weeks due to a knee injury. These absences could significantly impact their respective teams as they navigate the early part of the season.
Off-Field Moves and Business Decisions
Off the field, the Kelce brothers have made headlines by securing a deal reportedly worth at least $100 million for the full rights to their New Heights podcast. Such deals underscore the growing influence and marketability of NFL players beyond the gridiron.
A significant vote by NFL owners in Minneapolis is also anticipated, potentially allowing private equity in team ownership—a move that could reshape the financial landscape of the league dramatically. Another notable off-field development includes the renaming of the Commanders' stadium to Northwest Stadium.
As teams finalize their rosters and continue to navigate trades, extensions, and other off-field moves, the NFL remains as dynamic and unpredictable as ever. All eyes will be on the remaining hours leading up to the roster cut deadline, with fans and analysts alike eagerly awaiting the final outcomes.