NFL roster cutdown day wrapped up with all 32 teams trimming to 53 players, and now more than 1,100 players are vying for new NFL homes via the waiver wire.
As always with the waiver process, non-vested players (those with fewer than four years of experience) are exposed to claims from any of the other 31 teams. If a player passes through waivers unclaimed, they’re free to sign with a team’s practice squad.
This year, the Tennessee Titans held the top waiver priority and used it to add four players to their roster. Among the notables linked to the waiver activity were LB Chad Muma, formerly with the Jaguars, and CB JuJu Brents, associated with the Colts, both part of the Titans’ reported acquisitions.
The rest of the league joined in on waiver action, with teams including the Indianapolis Colts, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, and New York Jets involved in claims or signings as squads restructured after the 53-man cutdown.
What this means going forward
– The waiver period is a critical step in shaping depth for all 32 teams, especially as coaches evaluate players who can contribute on special teams or provide insurance at key positions.
– For players who clear waivers, landing with a practice squad offers a clear path to contributing later in the season, with the potential to be promoted to the active roster.
– The Titans’ ability to secure multiple players early on gives them an opportunity to add depth and competition at several positions, while other teams will be actively adjusting their rosters in the coming days.
Summary
Rosters are now set at 53, but the waiver wire will continue to shuffle who lands with which teams. The early moves show the Titans taking advantage of top priority to bolster their depth, with other clubs also making strategic claims as they finalize their 53-man plans.
If you’re looking for a hopeful takeaway, the waiver system remains a pathway for players on the fringe to seize an NFL opportunity and for teams to fine-tune their rosters with fresh talent after the cutdown.