The deadline for NFL teams to finalize their 53-man rosters has come and gone, leading to a series of significant cuts and strategic decisions across the league. By 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, teams were required to trim their squads from the off-season limit of 90 players, leading to the departure of many hopefuls. While some names were expected, others came as surprises, adding an element of intrigue to the days leading up to the start of the new season.
Baltimore Ravens Make Key Cuts
The Baltimore Ravens, known for their rigorous selection process, were particularly active in their roster adjustments. Amid the cuts, the Ravens parted ways with wide receivers Sean Ryan, Russell Gage, and Anthony Miller. Tight ends Mike Rigerman, Riley Sharp, Qadir Ismail, and Scotty Washington also received their walking papers. On the offensive line, Tashawn Manning and Darrell Simpson were the notable cuts. Defensively, Tramel Walthour was released, along with punter Jack Browning, cornerback Damarion 'Pepe' Williams, quarterback Emory Jones, and running back Chris Collier.
Surprising Moves Across the League
Several unexpected decisions were made across the league. Lamar Jackson’s name resurfaced in discussions, recalling how the 2018 Heisman Trophy winner went undrafted, a fact that adds context to the unpredictability of roster moves. The Denver Broncos cut linebackers Jonas Griffith and Jaylon Allen, as well as wide receiver Jalen Virgil, showcasing the tough decisions teams have to make as they balance talent, potential, and immediate needs.
Green Bay Packers' Notable Releases
In Green Bay, the Packers made significant adjustments, cutting offensive linemen Royce Newman and Caleb Jones. Quarterbacks Michael Pratt and Sean Clifford were also released, alongside kicker Anders Carlson. The wide receiver room saw changes with the release of Jalen Wayne and Samori Toure, and on the defensive line, Kenneth Odumegwu was let go.
Houston Texans Reshape Defensive Backfield
The Houston Texans focused on their defensive backfield, cutting cornerbacks Mike Ford, Lonnie Johnson Jr., and C.J. Henderson. Wide receivers Noah Brown and Quintez Cephus were released, as were safety Desmond King and quarterback Tim Boyle. Another wide receiver, Jaden Janke, also found himself on the list of cuts.
Las Vegas Raiders and New Orleans Saints' Roster Moves
The Las Vegas Raiders made their adjustments by releasing quarterbacks Carter Bradley and Nathan Peterman. They also parted ways with wide receiver Jeff Foreman and defensive back Wood Governor. Meanwhile, the New Orleans Saints trimmed their roster by cutting defensive end Niko Lalos, wide receivers Samson Nacua and Equanimeous St. Brown, and linebacker Khaleke Hudson. The Saints' special teams saw a shakeup with the release of punter Lou Hedley, safeties Roderic Teamer, Lawrence Johnson, Ugo Amadi, and Johnathan Abram, and kicker Charlie Smyth.
Adjustments in New York and Philadelphia
The New York Jets released defensive back Tre Swilling, running back Xavian Valladay, and tight end Neal Johnson. In Philadelphia, the Eagles cut wide receiver Parris Campbell and quarterback Will Grier. Tight ends E.J. Jenkins and C.J. Uzomah were released, along with defensive back Parry Nickerson and guard Max Scharping.
Seattle Seahawks and Other Significant Cuts
The Seattle Seahawks made notable trims by cutting tight ends Tyler Mabry and Michael Ezeike, alongside wide receivers D'Wayne Eskridge and Easop Winston. Defensively, DeVere Levelston and Jamie Sheriff were released. Additions to the cut list included defensive tackle Mario Kendricks, linebackers Easton Gibbs, Jon Rhattigan, and Devin Richardson, safety Ty Okada, running back George Holani, and defensive back Willie Roberts.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Washington Commanders' Decisions
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made surprising cuts, including wide receiver Sterling Shepard, defensive lineman Eric Banks, and linebacker Randy Gregory. The Washington Commanders made extensive changes, cutting defensive ends Andre Jones and KJ Henry, wide receivers Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint and Brycen Tremayne, and releasing wide receivers Martavis Bryant, Mitch Tinsley, and Davion Davis. Running backs Chris Rodriguez and Michael Wiley were also released. The Commanders also cut cornerbacks Chigozie Anusiem, A.J. Woods, Nick Whiteside II, Tariq Castro-Fields, and James Pierre, in addition to guard Julian Good-Jones, center J.C. Hassenauer, linebacker Bo Bauer, defensive back Ben Nikkel, and kicker Riley Patterson.
As every team finalizes their 53-man rosters, the anticipation builds for the new season. The cuts mark a period of intense evaluation and difficult decisions as teams strive to assemble their most competitive squads. The next few days will likely see some of these cut players finding new homes, adding another layer of excitement to the lead-up to the regular season kickoff.