Decision day has arrived and passed in the NFL, with all 32 teams required to trim their rosters to 53 players by 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday. This cutdown period was undoubtedly challenging for many, affecting both hopeful rookies and seasoned veterans as they strive to secure their careers in football. Conversely, for some players, this day marked the fulfillment of a dream as they secured spots on initial active rosters.
Here is a summary of several significant roster moves that occurred as the deadline approached:
In Denver, the Broncos made notable cuts by parting ways with wide receiver Tim Patrick and running back Samaje Perine. Patrick, attempting to return from severe injuries over the past two seasons, faced tough odds. Meanwhile, Perine, who had a productive previous season, found himself buried in a competitive backfield.
The Minnesota Vikings also made changes, waiving safety Lewis Cine, a 2022 first-round pick whose career was marred by injury. Cine played minimally in his first two seasons and is the second player from the Vikings’ 2022 draft class to be let go prematurely, following the trade of cornerback Andrew Booth Jr.
For the Green Bay Packers, a significant move involved placing running back AJ Dillon on injured reserve due to a neck injury, effectively sidelining him for the entire season. Dillon had recently re-signed for one year. However, the team was able to retain third-round pick MarShawn Lloyd, who is set to assist the backfield.
Dallas Cowboys running back Deuce Vaughn survived the cuts and will remain as part of the team heading into his second season. Vaughn, who is the son of a team scout, had limited playing time last year but looks to make an impact in the upcoming season.
The Atlanta Falcons opted to keep Taylor Heinicke as their third-string quarterback, while parting ways with cornerback Kevin King, who sought to revive his career after injuries sidelined him for two years.
In Los Angeles, the Chargers retained veteran safety Tony Jefferson, who impressed during the preseason. Both he and seventh-round pick Brenden Rice were included in the Chargers’ final roster.
For the Cleveland Browns, clarity emerged in the backfield as they cut running back D’Onta Foreman and opted to carry four quarterbacks, including Deshaun Watson and two others who could be potential trade candidates.
The Philadelphia Eagles decided to release wide receiver Parris Campbell after he was anticipated to fill a crucial role but struggled with injuries. The Seattle Seahawks also parted ways with wide receiver Dee Eskridge after an underwhelming tenure marred by injuries and previous suspensions.
The Los Angeles Rams traded team captain Ernest Jones IV to the Tennessee Titans in exchange for draft picks. Meanwhile, the Kansas City Chiefs waived Kadarius Toney following a disappointing season that was characterized by high-profile mistakes in crucial games.
The Green Bay Packers made quarterback adjustments by waiving Sean Clifford and Michael Pratt after acquiring Malik Willis from the Titans.
Arizona’s backup quarterback situation settled with the release of Desmond Ridder and Clayton Tune being named the second string behind Kyler Murray. The Jacksonville Jaguars released backup quarterback C.J. Beathard, who struggled with injury.
In Carolina, Terrace Marshall Jr. was released, signaling a continued shake-up in the receiving corps. The New England Patriots cut kicker Chad Ryland after a disappointing rookie year and are moving forward with another kicker.
The Titans released cornerback Caleb Farley, a former first-round pick who faced injuries throughout his career. The Washington Commanders waived wide receiver Martavis Bryant, who sought to return to the NFL after a long absence.
The Dallas Cowboys made the decision to cut veteran pass rusher Carl Lawson shortly after signing him. The Detroit Lions released Nate Sudfeld, indicating their choice of Hendon Hooker as the backup quarterback.
Finally, the Houston Texans parted ways with cornerback C.J. Henderson, concluding their experiment with the former first-round pick.
As teams finalize their rosters, the deadline for claims on waived players extends until noon ET the following day, after which practice squads can be established.