NFL Teams Shake Up Rosters: Major Trades and Cuts Highlight Preseason Moves
With the NFL regular season just around the corner, the league’s 32 teams have made significant changes to their rosters, trimming down from 90 players to the in-season maximum of 53. This annual restructuring has seen notable trades, surprising cuts, and the emergence of new talents ready to make an impact.
Falcons' Quarterback Trio
The Atlanta Falcons have decided to retain three quarterbacks: Kirk Cousins, Michael Penix Jr., and Taylor Heinicke. Heinicke, despite a preseason completion rate of just 45.5%, has managed to secure his spot. His performance will certainly be under scrutiny as the season progresses, with the Falcons hoping for a steadier hand.
Packers' Quarterback Carousel
Over in Green Bay, the Packers have experienced significant changes under center. While they initially drafted Sean Clifford from Penn State and Michael Pratt from Tulane, both quarterbacks were subsequently cut. In a surprising move, the Packers acquired Malik Willis from the Tennessee Titans. Additionally, the Packers have signed Greg Joseph as their new kicker after cutting their 2023 sixth-round pick, Anders Carlson.
Titans Revamp Defensive Lineup
The Tennessee Titans have made some bold moves to bolster their defense this year. They acquired cornerbacks L'Jarius Sneed and Chidobe Awuzie, safeties Quandre Diggs and Jamal Adams, and linebacker Kenneth Murray. The Titans also strengthened their defensive line with the addition of Sebastian Joseph-Day and rookie T'Vondre Sweat. Offensively, the Titans secured Tyler Boyd at running back, center Lloyd Cushenberry, and offensive tackle JC Latham, reflecting a comprehensive approach to upgrading both sides of the ball.
Panthers and Steelers Trade Starters
The Carolina Panthers and Pittsburgh Steelers engaged in a noteworthy trade. Carolina’s GM Dan Morgan and head coach Dave Canales cut wide receiver Terrace Marshall Jr. and subsequently traded cornerback Donte Jackson and a sixth-round pick to the Steelers. In return, the Steelers sent wide receiver Diontae Johnson and a seventh-round pick to Carolina. These moves underscore each team's strategic reshuffling as they fine-tune their rosters.
In the draft, the Panthers have focused heavily on fortifying their offense, using three of their first four picks in the 2024 NFL Draft on offensive playmakers. This aggressive strategy indicates their aim to inject new life into their offensive lineup.
Bears and Lions Make Quarterback Decisions
For the second consecutive year, Tyson Bagent has secured the backup quarterback spot for the Chicago Bears, while Desmond Ridder has lost the battle for the backup role to Clayton Tune. The Denver Broncos, who had cut Tim Patrick despite his flawless preseason performance of catching all five of his targets, saw him quickly picked up by the Detroit Lions. The Lions also brought on Hendon Hooker as their new backup quarterback, following a strong preseason that saw Hooker complete 29 of 44 passes for 300 yards and rush for 138 yards.
Bengals Adjust Offensive Line
The Cincinnati Bengals are also reshaping their roster by cutting Jackson Carman, a 2021 second-round pick, and securing Trent Brown and Amarius Mims to strengthen their protection unit. These changes are aimed at ensuring better quarterback protection and enhancing their offensive capabilities.
Mac Jones Heads to Jacksonville
In another significant quarterback shift, Mac Jones was traded from the New England Patriots to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Jones had a strong preseason, completing 73.1% of his passes for 421 yards and delivering three touchdowns. Jacksonville fans will be watching closely to see if Jones can maintain this performance level in the regular season.
Texans' Receiver Changes
The Houston Texans have made adjustments at the wide receiver position by releasing Noah Brown. On a brighter note, Tank Dell has fully recovered and is ready to make valuable contributions to the team. This could provide a needed boost to the Texans' offensive strategy.
Buffalo Bills Cut Frank Gore Jr.
The Buffalo Bills have made the tough decision to cut Frank Gore Jr., despite his impressive preseason performance, which saw him rush for 101 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries. This move indicates the Bills’ confidence in their existing backfield depth as they prepare for the upcoming season.
As the NFL regular season approaches, these roster changes highlight the dynamic nature of team strategies and the ever-evolving quest for the perfect lineup. Fans can expect exciting gameplay and intense competition as new talents emerge and established players strive to make their mark.