As the NFL approaches its roster cut deadline, a whirlwind of activity has enveloped teams across the league. By 4 p.m. ET, nearly 1,200 players will find themselves out of a job as teams trim their rosters from 90 players down to 53.
Major Cuts and Trades
Among the notable roster moves, Packers kicker Anders Carlson and Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe have been let go. High-profile releases also include QB Will Grier from the Eagles, QB Ben DiNucci from the Bills, RBs Matt Breida from the 49ers and Phillip Dorsett from the Broncos, and several other names across various teams.
Some teams have also engaged in last-minute trades. The Packers traded QB Malik Willis to the Titans for a 2025 seventh-round pick, while the Chiefs sent LB Cam Thomas to the Cardinals for a similar 2025 seventh-round pick. These moves underscore the strategic maneuvers teams are making to finalize their rosters.
Contract Extensions and Future Negotiations
In Dallas, the Cowboys made significant headlines by extending WR CeeDee Lamb's contract with a four-year, $136 million deal, including a $38 million signing bonus. The contract certainly rewards Lamb's exceptional performance, yet also reveals a missed financial opportunity for the Cowboys. Had they completed the deal earlier in the offseason, they might have saved nearly $10 million. With Lamb's extension secured, the Cowboys' focus now shifts towards negotiating new contracts for QB Dak Prescott and LB Micah Parsons.
The Jets, meanwhile, have doubled down on their investment in Aaron Rodgers. Jets coach Robert Saleh, having amassed an 18-33 record over three seasons, faces scrutiny over this bold move. "Imagine if this Aaron Rodgers investment does not work out," underscores Jordan Dajani. "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."
Coaching Pressures
In Buffalo, Bills head coach Sean McDermott also faces mounting pressure. Jordan Dajani highlights this sentiment, saying, "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."
Injury Reports and Player Health
On the injury front, T.J. Hockenson will miss at least the first four games of the season, having been placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Additionally, Uchenna Nwosu will be sidelined for two to six weeks due to a knee injury, impacting the lineup and strategies for their respective teams.
Speculation and Potential Moves
Speculations abound regarding potential trades and releases. Broncos WR Tim Patrick and RB Samaje Perine are rumored to be on the verge of either a trade or release. Texans RB Dameon Pierce has been suggested as a target for the Browns, while Chiefs WR Skyy Moore might find himself within the Commanders' ranks. Conversations are also swirling around Patriots DB Jonathan Jones, who appears to be on the Cowboys' radar.
Financial Considerations and League Developments
Beyond player movements, significant financial developments within the league are also making headlines. NFL owners are anticipated to vote in Minneapolis on the potential of allowing private equity in team ownership, a move that could significantly impact the business dynamics of the league.
Moreover, the Commanders have made a notable change off the field by renaming their stadium to Northwest Stadium. In media-related news, the Kelce brothers have secured a deal worth at least $100 million for the full rights to their New Heights podcast, showcasing the lucrative opportunities available to current NFL players.
As the 4 p.m. deadline approaches, the NFL landscape is rapidly evolving with every passing minute. From high-stakes trades and contract negotiations to unforeseen releases, the coming hours promise to reshape teams and define the narratives for the upcoming season.