As the NFL's roster cut deadline looms at 4 p.m. ET, the league is seeing a significant turnover, with nearly 1,200 players expected to be released. This annual process of narrowing down teams from 90 to 53 players is always fraught with intense deliberation and tough decisions.
Among the notable cuts are Packers kicker Anders Carlson and Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe. The list of conspicuous releases further includes QB Will Grier (Eagles), QB Ben DiNucci (Bills), RB Matt Breida (49ers), RB Phillip Dorsett (Broncos), RB Myles Gaskin (Vikings), WR Allen Robinson (Giants), CB C.J. Henderson (Texans), CB Tre Flowers (Jaguars), S Terrell Edmunds (Jaguars), S Kareem Jackson (Bills), and K Matthew Wright (Steelers).
Trades and Speculations
Trades are an integral part of this roster-trimming frenzy. The Packers have sent QB Malik Willis to the Titans in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick, while the Chiefs have traded LB Cam Thomas to the Cardinals, also for a 2025 seventh-round pick.
Several high-profile players are being speculated as potential trade or release candidates. Broncos WR Tim Patrick and RB Samaje Perine are attracting considerable attention. Texans RB Dameon Pierce could become an asset for the Browns, whereas Chiefs WR Skyy Moore might find a new team with the Commanders. Additionally, Patriots DB Jonathan Jones is rumored to be on the Cowboys' radar.
Contract Extensions and Financial Implications
Amidst the chaos, some teams are focusing on securing their star players. The Dallas Cowboys have successfully extended WR CeeDee Lamb's contract, signing him to a four-year, $136 million extension inclusive of a $38 million signing bonus. However, timing appears to have played a role in the financial aspects, as the Cowboys could have saved nearly $10 million if Lamb’s deal had been finalized earlier in the offseason. With Lamb’s future now secure, the Cowboys' priority shifts to renewing contracts for Dak Prescott and Micah Parsons.
Coaching Pressures
Coaching records and team performance are always under scrutiny. Jets coach Robert Saleh finds himself in the spotlight with an 18-33 record over three seasons. Commenting on Saleh's tenure, Jordan Dajani remarked, "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 Bills coach Sean McDermott is another who cannot escape the magnifying glass. Despite having the incredibly talented Josh Allen, Dajani noted, "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 Updates
Injuries continue to play a pivotal role in shaping team rosters. T.J. Hockenson is notably on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, sidelining him for at least the first four games of the season. Additionally, Uchenna Nwosu is expected to be out for two to six weeks due to a knee injury.
Off-Field Transactions and Developments
Off the field, the Kelce brothers have struck a lucrative deal, securing at least $100 million for the full rights to their New Heights podcast. Meanwhile, NFL owners are preparing for a significant vote in Minneapolis, potentially opening the door to private equity in team ownership.
In another notable development, the Commanders' stadium has been renamed to Northwest Stadium, marking a new chapter for the team.
As the NFL evolves both on and off the field, these developments underscore the dynamic and ever-changing landscape of professional football. With roster cuts, trades, contract negotiations, and off-field deals all happening simultaneously, the season promises to be as unpredictable as ever.