Massive NFL Roster Shakeup: Key Players Cut and Speculated Trades
In a flurry of activity ahead of the 4 p.m. ET deadline, NFL teams are making significant changes to their rosters, trimming from 90 players down to the final 53. This process leaves nearly 1,200 players jobless by day's end. Among the notable cuts, the Packers released kicker Anders Carlson, and the Patriots let go of quarterback Bailey Zappe.
Several high-profile names have found themselves without a team. Quarterbacks Will Grier and Ben DiNucci have been released by the Eagles and Bills, respectively. Running backs such as Matt Breida (49ers), Phillip Dorsett (Broncos), and Myles Gaskin (Vikings) have also been cut. Wide receiver Allen Robinson of the Giants and cornerbacks C.J. Henderson (Texans) and Tre Flowers (Jaguars) join them on the list. Safeties Terrell Edmunds (Jaguars) and Kareem Jackson (Bills), along with Steelers kicker Matthew Wright, round out the noteworthy releases.
In addition to the roster cuts, trades are reshaping team lineups. The Packers have sent quarterback Malik Willis to the Titans in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick. Similarly, the Chiefs have dealt linebacker Cam Thomas to the Cardinals, also for a 2025 seventh-round pick.
Trade and Release Speculations
The rumor mill is swirling around a handful of players who might either be traded or released. Broncos' wide receiver Tim Patrick and running back Samaje Perine are among those speculated to be on the move. Texans running back Dameon Pierce is rumored to be a target for the Browns, while Chiefs wide receiver Skyy Moore could potentially land with the Commanders.
Further speculation surrounds Patriots defensive back Jonathan Jones, who is suggested to be on the Cowboys' radar. Amidst these potential moves, the Cowboys have shifted their focus to extending their key players' contracts.
Cowboys Secure CeeDee Lamb, Eye Dak and Parsons
In a significant move, the Dallas Cowboys have extended wide receiver CeeDee Lamb's contract with a lucrative four-year, $136 million extension, which includes a $38 million signing bonus. This extension realigns the Cowboys' finances, though it is noted that completing Lamb’s deal earlier in the offseason could have saved the team nearly $10 million.
With Lamb secured, the Cowboys now turn their attention to new contracts for quarterback Dak Prescott and linebacker Micah Parsons to solidify their roster for the future.
Coaching Under Pressure
Jets head coach Robert Saleh faces increasing scrutiny as his team has committed heavily to quarterback Aaron Rodgers. "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," remarked Jordan Dajani.
Similarly, Bills head coach Sean McDermott finds himself under pressure despite the consistent performance of quarterback Josh Allen. "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," added Dajani.
Injuries and Contract Negotiations
Injuries are also influencing team dynamics as the season approaches. T.J. Hockenson of the Vikings is on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, guaranteeing his absence for at least the first four games. Meanwhile, Seahawks' Uchenna Nwosu will be sidelined for anywhere from two to six weeks due to a knee injury.
Podcasting and Potential Ownership Changes
Off the field, the Kelce brothers have struck a major deal worth at least $100 million for the full rights to their popular 'New Heights' podcast. This significant contract reflects the growing impact of athletes outside their primary professional roles.
Additionally, there is an anticipated vote by NFL owners in Minneapolis on potentially allowing private equity in team ownership, which could lead to major shifts in the financial landscape of the league.
Stadium Name Changes
The Commanders' stadium has undergone a rebranding and is now named Northwest Stadium, marking a new chapter in the team's history.
As the NFL landscape rapidly evolves with cuts, trades, and off-field developments, fans await the next moves with bated breath, ready to see how their beloved teams shape up for the upcoming season.