NFL Deadline Sparks Massive Roster Shakeups and Trades
As the 4 p.m. ET deadline looms for NFL teams to trim their rosters from 90 down to 53 players, nearly 1,200 players are expected to find themselves without a job. This massive culling includes both veterans and younger players alike, turning it into one of the most chaotic and emotional days in professional football. Among the more notable cuts, the Packers have parted ways with kicker Anders Carlson, and the Patriots have released quarterback Bailey Zappe.
Major Releases Across the League
High-profile names are not immune to the effects of this roster reduction. The Eagles have released quarterback Will Grier, while the Bills have said goodbye to quarterback Ben DiNucci. The 49ers’ running back Matt Breida, Broncos’ running back Phillip Dorsett, and Vikings’ running back Myles Gaskin also find themselves similarly on the chopping block. Wide receiver Allen Robinson of the Giants, Texas' cornerback C.J. Henderson, and Jaguars' cornerback Tre Flowers join the list of released players. Meanwhile, former Steelers kicker Matthew Wright and Bills safety Kareem Jackson round out the significant names let go during this roster cut frenzy.
Additionally, a live blog and cuts tracker are available for fans to follow these developments in real time, offering updates as teams finalize their rosters.
Trades and Speculations
While cuts dominate the conversation, several trades and whispers of possible moves are adding to the intrigue. The Packers traded quarterback Malik Willis to the Titans, receiving a 2025 seventh-round pick in return. Similarly, the Chiefs sent linebacker Cam Thomas to the Cardinals for a future seventh-round pick. Speculation is at an all-time high, with Broncos' wide receiver Tim Patrick and running back Samaje Perine rumored to be either on the trading block or potential release candidates. Texans' running back Dameon Pierce is suggested as a target for the Browns, and Chiefs' wide receiver Skyy Moore might find his new home with the Commanders.
In another notable rumor, Patriots’ defensive back Jonathan Jones is speculated to be on the Cowboys' radar, hinting at potential roster shifts in the near future.
Cowboys' Contract Moves
The Dallas Cowboys have moved decisively, extending wide receiver CeeDee Lamb's contract with a four-year, $136 million deal, which includes a $38 million signing bonus. This strategic move is expected to provide more stability to the Cowboys' offensive lineup. However, analysts note that the Cowboys could have saved nearly $10 million had they opted to secure Lamb’s deal earlier in the offseason. Now, the Cowboys turn their focus to securing new contracts for quarterback Dak Prescott and defensive superstar Micah Parsons.
Coaching Under Pressure
At the helm of leadership, Jets' coach Robert Saleh faces heightened scrutiny. As Jordan Dajani points out, "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." This sentiment reflects the unease surrounding the Jets' significant investment in veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, raising questions about the team's future if things don't turn around quickly.
Likewise, Bills coach Sean McDermott is feeling the heat despite having quarterback Josh Allen at his disposal. 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."
Injuries and Other Developments
On the injury front, T.J. Hockenson is on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list and will miss at least the first four games of the season. Meanwhile, Uchenna Nwosu is set to be sidelined for two to six weeks due to a knee injury.
In more positive news, the Kelce brothers have secured a landmark deal worth at least $100 million for the full rights to their popular "New Heights" podcast, illustrating the financial opportunities available to NFL stars off the field.
As changes sweep through the league, team owners are expected to vote in Minneapolis on a potential move to allow private equity in team ownership. Such a decision could mark a significant shift in the business dynamics of the NFL.
Lastly, the Washington Commanders' stadium has been renamed Northwest Stadium, signaling a new chapter for the team as it navigates through the complexities and pressures of an ever-evolving NFL landscape.
As the clock ticks down to the roster cuts deadline, the league is abuzz with speculation, strategy, and the ever-present hope of a successful season ahead.