Massive Roster Shakeups Ahead of NFL Deadline
As the clock ticks down to 4 p.m. ET, NFL teams nationwide are enacting significant roster changes, reducing their squads from 90 players to the 53-player limit. This dramatic overhaul will render nearly 1,200 players jobless, as franchises make tough decisions on who stays and who goes.
Among the early cuts, Packers kicker Anders Carlson and Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe have already been let go. Other notable releases include veteran players such as QB Will Grier from the Eagles and RB Matt Breida from the 49ers. Names like C.J. Henderson from the Texans and WR Allen Robinson from the Giants also surfaced in the wave of cuts, demonstrating the harsh reality of the league's roster management.
Trades and Speculations
While some players face the sting of release, others find themselves traded to new teams. The Packers coordinated a trade, sending QB Malik Willis to the Titans in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick. Similarly, the Chiefs traded LB Cam Thomas to the Cardinals for a future seventh-round pick.
Trade rumors also swirl regarding several high-profile players. The Broncos’ WR Tim Patrick and RB Samaje Perine may either be traded or released, while Texans RB Dameon Pierce is speculated to be on the Browns' radar. Chiefs WR Skyy Moore might be making a move to the Commanders, adding another layer of intrigue as the deadline looms. Meanwhile, the Patriots' DB Jonathan Jones appears to have caught the eye of the Cowboys.
Contract Extensions and Financial Moves
In notable financial moves, the Dallas Cowboys have extended WR CeeDee Lamb's contract with a four-year, $136 million extension, which includes a hefty $38 million signing bonus. This deal was a critical financial maneuver, though it is noted that "the Cowboys could have saved nearly $10 million if Lamb's deal had been completed earlier in the offseason."
Dallas's focus now shifts toward securing new contracts for key players like Dak Prescott and Micah Parsons, further shaping the team's future financial landscape. Meanwhile, the Jets have made a substantial investment in Aaron Rodgers, a move fraught with anticipation and pressure for a positive return.
Coaching Under Pressure
Jets coach Robert Saleh finds himself scrutinized as he holds an 18-33 record over three seasons. Jordan Dajani of CBS Sports aptly comments, "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."
On the other hand, Bills coach Sean McDermott is also under the microscope. Having led his team to the AFC Championship only once, expectations remain high for a squad evidently capable of more. Dajani adds, "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 News
It's not just roster changes and trades making headlines. Injuries are also impacting team dynamics. T.J. Hockenson is on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list and will miss at least the first four games of the season, while Uchenna Nwosu is sidelined for two to six weeks due to a knee injury.
Meanwhile, the Kelce brothers have secured a lucrative deal worth at least $100 million for the full rights to their New Heights podcast, showcasing how player ventures off the field continue to grow.
In a notable administrative update, NFL owners are set to vote in Minneapolis on the potential of allowing private equity in team ownership, a decision that could have significant ramifications for the league’s financial landscape. Additionally, the Commanders’ stadium has been renamed to Northwest Stadium.
As the deadline approaches, fans eagerly await the final roster decisions that will shape the upcoming NFL season. Between trades, cuts, and new contracts, the league is witnessing a transformative moment that underscores the ever-evolving nature of professional football.