As the NFL season draws near, teams across the league have made their final decisions to trim their preseason rosters, a task that required reducing the number of players from 90 down to the mandated 53. With the 4 p.m. ET deadline on Tuesday, several notable moves and cuts have been made, signaling the official shape of the rosters that fans will be watching this season.
Baltimore Ravens' Notable Releases
The Baltimore Ravens made the difficult decision to part ways with several players, including wide receivers Sean Ryan, Russell Gage, and Anthony Miller. Their cuts didn't stop there. Tight ends Mike Rigerman, Riley Sharp, Qadir Ismail, and Scotty Washington were also let go. On the offensive line, Tashawn Manning and Darrell Simpson found themselves without a spot on the final roster.
Additionally, the Ravens released defensive lineman Tramel Walthour, punter Jack Browning, cornerback Damarion "Pepe" Williams, quarterback Emory Jones, and running back Chris Collier. For a team renowned for its strategic roster decisions, these cuts were undoubtedly driven by a desire to optimize both their offensive and defensive units.
Denver Broncos' Roster Changes
The Denver Broncos also made critical cuts, letting go of linebackers Jonas Griffith and Jaylon Allen, as well as wide receiver Jalen Virgil. As the team narrows down their options, it becomes clear that they are focused on refining their squad to maximize efficiency and competitive edge for the upcoming season.
Green Bay Packers' Offensive and Defensive Adjustments
Meanwhile, the Green Bay Packers focused on both sides of the ball, with significant cuts in their offensive line. Offensive linemen Royce Newman and Caleb Jones, as well as quarterbacks Michael Pratt and Sean Clifford, were released. Among the special teams, kicker Anders Carlson was also let go.
Wide receivers Jalen Wayne and Samori Toure and defensive lineman Kenneth Odumegwu were among the final roster cuts for the Green Bay team. The targeted adjustments highlight the Packers' commitment to building a roster that balances veteran experience with emerging talent.
Houston Texans' Defensive Strategy
The Houston Texans made notable decisions on the defensive side of things, cutting cornerbacks Mike Ford, Lonnie Johnson Jr., and C.J. Henderson. The team also released wide receivers Noah Brown and Quintez Cephus, along with safety Desmond King and quarterback Tim Boyle. Wide receiver Jaden Janke was another casualty of the rigorous roster trimming.
Las Vegas Raiders' Final Roster Moves
In Las Vegas, the Raiders parted ways with quarterbacks Carter Bradley and Nathan Peterman, focusing instead on other strategic positions. Wide receiver Jeff Foreman and defensive back Wood Governor were also released, signaling a strategic pivot as the team looked to finalize its core group of playmakers.
New Orleans Saints' Extensive Cuts
The New Orleans Saints executed sweeping changes with defensive end Niko Lalos, wide receivers Samson Nacua and Equanimeous St. Brown, and linebacker Khaleke Hudson facing the axe. The Saints also released punter Lou Hedley, safeties Roderic Teamer, Lawrence Johnson, Ugo Amadi, and Johnathan Abram, and kicker Charlie Smyth.
Additional cuts included defensive lineman Jack Heflin, offensive linemen Josiah Ezirim, Tremayne Anchrum, Shane Lemieux, and center Sincere Haynesworth. Defensive end Trajan Jeffcoat also did not make the final roster, indicating how competitive the positional battles were in New Orleans.
New York Jets and Philadelphia Eagles' Key Decisions
The New York Jets released defensive back Tre Swilling, running back Xavian Valladay, and tight end Neal Johnson as they make tactical adjustments to their team setup. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Eagles let go of wide receiver Parris Campbell and quarterback Will Grier. The Eagles' strategic cuts didn’t end there, with tight ends E.J. Jenkins and C.J. Uzomah, defensive back Parry Nickerson, and guard Max Scharping also being removed from the roster.
Seattle Seahawks and Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Roster Shaping
The Seattle Seahawks focused on a mix of offensive and defensive cuts, releasing tight ends Tyler Mabry and Michael Ezeike, wide receivers D'Wayne Eskridge and Easop Winston, and defensive ends DeVere Levelston and Jamie Sheriff. Among others released were defensive tackle Mario Kendricks, linebackers Easton Gibbs, Jon Rhattigan, and Devin Richardson, safety Ty Okada, running back George Holani, and defensive back Willie Roberts.
For the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, notable cuts included wide receiver Sterling Shepard, defensive lineman Eric Banks, and linebacker Randy Gregory. The Buccaneers' decisions reflect a close look at depth and performance as they aim to solidify their contention in a competitive NFC.
Washington Commanders' Final Decisions
In Washington, the Commanders cut defensive ends Andre Jones and KJ Henry, as well as wide receivers Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint and Brycen Tremayne. Other cuts included wide receivers Martavis Bryant, Mitch Tinsley, and Davion Davis, and running backs Chris Rodriguez and Michael Wiley.
The team also let go of cornerbacks Chigozie Anusiem, A.J. Woods, Nick Whiteside II, Tariq Castro-Fields, and James Pierre. Offensive cuts included guard Julian Good-Jones and center J.C. Hassenauer. The Commanders also released linebacker Bo Bauer, defensive back Ben Nikkel, and kicker Riley Patterson as part of their final roster adjustments, emphasizing their focus on building a strong special teams unit.
With initial 53-man rosters now set, the countdown to the opening kickoff is officially underway. Teams are prepared, coaches are ready, and players are eager to prove that they belong on the final rosters, making every game count as the NFL season launches into full swing.