NFL roster deadline day has arrived, requiring all 32 teams to trim their rosters down to 53 players. While some franchises started their cuts yesterday, most of the league will complete the process today.
Various cuts are expected, but some decisions come as a surprise. Here’s a look at the evaluations of notable roster moves ahead of today’s deadline:
The Minnesota Vikings have parted ways with Lewis Cine, their first-round pick from the 2022 NFL Draft. After a successful college career at Georgia, Cine managed to play only 10 games in two seasons, recording just one tackle. With the Vikings’ defense featuring free agent-heavy corners and a safety duo of Harrison Smith and Camryn Bynum, the decision to release Cine reflects the team’s current direction, despite casting doubt on the success of their recent draft class.
Grade: B+
The Cleveland Browns have made an unusual choice by retaining four quarterbacks: Deshaun Watson, Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Jameis Winston, and Tyler Huntley. This decision, which compromises depth at other critical positions like running back, raises questions, especially since they aim to rely on Nick Chubb later in the season. Current depth features only Jerome Ford and Pierre Strong Jr. as the top options at running back, which could limit the team’s effectiveness if trades do not occur.
Grade: C-
The Los Angeles Chargers have retained nearly all of their 2024 draft class, an important step for new head coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz as they work to fill talent gaps in an expensive roster. The Chargers’ drafting strategy included enhancing their team in various positions, with only one of their drafted players, Cornelius Johnson, failing to make the cut. By prioritizing younger talent over seasoned players like Alex Leatherwood and Isaiah Spiller, the Chargers are positioning themselves for a better future.
Grade: B+
The Dallas Cowboys have released linebacker Carl Lawson, who previously showcased promise as a rookie but struggled with injuries in recent years. Despite facing a need for additional pass rush support opposite Micah Parsons, the Cowboys cut Lawson, placing early expectations on rookie Marshawn Kneeland to step up under new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer.
Grade: C
The Kansas City Chiefs have decided to cut wide receiver Kadarius Toney, a first-round draft pick from the 2021 NFL Draft. Despite some key contributions, including a notable touchdown that helped secure a Super Bowl win, Toney struggled with consistency, failing to surpass 500 scrimmage yards in a season. With a solid receiving corps that includes Rashee Rice, Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, rookie Xavier Worthy, and former Chiefs player JuJu Smith-Schuster, the Chiefs appear well-positioned without Toney.
Grade: A-