Nearly 1,200 NFL players will face the harsh reality of the business side of football as teams across the league make their final roster cuts to trim down to 53 players by the deadline of 4 p.m. ET. This annual process is always a tough period for players, coaches, and fans alike, as dreams are dashed and careers take detours.
The roster trimming action has already seen some notable names let go. Packers kicker Anders Carlson and Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe are among the players released. Joining them on the list of significant releases are QB Will Grier from the Eagles, QB Ben DiNucci of the Bills, and RB Matt Breida from the 49ers. Other prominent players finding themselves out of a job include RB Phillip Dorsett of the Broncos, RB Myles Gaskin from the Vikings, and WR Allen Robinson of the Giants. The defensive side was not spared either, with CB C.J. Henderson (Texans), CB Tre Flowers (Jaguars), S Terrell Edmunds (Jaguars), S Kareem Jackson (Bills), and K Matthew Wright (Steelers) also among the cuts.
For fans wanting to keep up with the relentless pace of the roster changes, a CUTS TRACKER and a live blog are available to provide real-time updates.
Trades and Speculations
The Packers weren't just trimming their roster; they also engaged in the trade market, sending QB Malik Willis to the Titans in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick. The Chiefs followed suit, trading LB Cam Thomas to the Cardinals for a 2025 seventh-round pick as well. These trades exemplify how teams are not just focused on immediate roster decisions but also looking towards future strategic builds.
Amidst the cuts and trades, speculation surrounds several players' futures. Broncos WR Tim Patrick and RB Samaje Perine are thought to be potential candidates for either a trade or release. Additionally, Texans RB Dameon Pierce is suggested to be a target for the Browns, while Chiefs WR Skyy Moore might find a new home with the Commanders. The Patriots’ versatile DB Jonathan Jones has emerged on the Cowboys' radar, indicating Dallas's interest in bolstering their defensive backfield.
Significant Extensions
In the midst of the roster upheaval, some teams have also provided stability by extending key player contracts. The Dallas Cowboys have made a significant investment in their future, securing WR CeeDee Lamb with a four-year, $136 million extension, which includes a hefty $38 million signing bonus. This deal wasn’t just about securing Lamb; it also comes with financial nuances. The Cowboys could have saved nearly $10 million if Lamb's deal had been completed earlier in the offseason, highlighting the intricate timing and financial strategies involved in contract negotiations.
With Lamb's future solidified, the Cowboys now shift their focus to securing new contracts for their franchise quarterback, Dak Prescott, and defensive powerhouse, Micah Parsons. This strategic approach by the Cowboys underscores the importance of maintaining a competitive roster while managing financial constraints.
Coaching Challenges
The pressure is mounting on coaches across the league to deliver results. Jets coach Robert Saleh, who holds an 18-33 record over three seasons, is feeling the heat. The Jets have made substantial investments, particularly in securing Aaron Rodgers, aiming to reverse their fortunes. However, as Jordan Dajani remarks, "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."
Similarly, Sean McDermott of the Bills finds himself under scrutiny. Despite the perennial contender status due to the talents of Josh Allen, the team has reached the AFC Championship only once. "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," says Dajani.
Player Health and Off-Field Ventures
Player health remains a critical concern as demonstrated by key players on the injury lists. T.J. Hockenson will miss at least the first four games of the season being on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Uchenna Nwosu is another player sidelined, expected to be out for two to six weeks due to a knee injury. These injuries can significantly impact team rosters and performance as the season progresses.
Off the field, notable movements include the Kelce brothers, who have secured a significant deal worth at least $100 million for the full rights to their 'New Heights' podcast. This deal is a testament to the increasing marketability and business acumen of NFL players beyond the gridiron.
The Commanders have also made headlines with the renaming of their stadium to Northwest Stadium, signaling potential new beginnings and marketing avenues for the team.
Ownership Dynamics
A significant vote by NFL owners in Minneapolis looms on the horizon, with potential implications for team ownership structures. The anticipated vote on the possible inclusion of private equity in team ownership could fundamentally reshape the financial landscape of the league. Such changes could open up new avenues for investment and growth for NFL franchises.
As the deadline nears, the complex interplay of roster cuts, trades, extensions, and strategic decisions continues to unfold, shaping the landscape of the upcoming NFL season.