The final week before the 2024 NFL season kickoff has proven to be a whirlwind of activity as teams finalize their rosters. From notable trades to surprising releases, the landscape of several teams has shifted, setting the stage for an intriguing season.
Roster Reductions Across the League
Every NFL team has been busy trimming their roster down to the mandated 53 players from a pool of up to 90. This annual process sees a mix of trades, waivers, and releases, often involving strategic decisions that could impact the season ahead.
Dallas Cowboys and Kansas City Chiefs Swap Talent
The Dallas Cowboys made headlines by trading tight end Peyton Hendershot to the Kansas City Chiefs. In exchange, the Cowboys received a conditional late-round draft pick. Hendershot is expected to compete for a backup role behind the Chiefs' star tight end, Travis Kelce. This move is poised to fortify the Chiefs' tight end depth, providing support behind one of the league's premier players at that position.
Arizona Cardinals' Strategic Moves
The Arizona Cardinals have been particularly active in the trading arena. Linebacker Cameron Thomas, a third-round pick from the 2022 draft, was sent to the Chiefs for a seventh-round pick. This move signals the Cardinals’ intent to reshuffle their defensive lineup, looking ahead to future drafts for continued improvement.
In another deal, the Cardinals traded linebacker Ernest Jones to the Tennessee Titans. The trade also saw the Cardinals include a 2026 sixth-round pick in exchange for a 2025 fifth-round pick. Jones has been a cornerstone for Arizona as a starting inside linebacker and team captain, making his departure noteworthy for both fans and analysts.
QB Exchange: Malik Willis and Sean Clifford
The Tennessee Titans traded quarterback Malik Willis to the Green Bay Packers. The transaction, which also included a seventh-round pick, positions Willis as the backup to Jordan Love. In a corresponding move, the Packers released Sean Clifford, another 2022 draft pick. This shakeup suggests a new direction for the Packers' quarterback strategy as they seek stability and depth behind Love.
Jacksonville Jaguars and Seattle Seahawks Adjust Defensive Lines
The Jacksonville Jaguars sent defensive lineman Trevis Gipson to the Seattle Seahawks for a 2025 sixth-round pick. The Seahawks are looking to bolster their defensive line, especially with edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu currently out due to a sprained MCL. Gipson's addition aims to fill this gap and add strength to Seattle's pass rush capabilities.
Chicago Bears Strengthen Their Defense
The Cleveland Browns and Chicago Bears orchestrated a trade involving defensive lineman Chris Williams. Williams, along with a seventh-round pick, was sent to the Bears in exchange for a sixth-round pick. Having spent last season on the practice squad, Williams will now have the opportunity to carve out a role with the Bears, adding depth to their defensive unit.
The Bears also acquired Darrell Taylor from the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a 2025 sixth-round pick. These moves indicate a concerted effort by the Bears to fortify their defensive front, aiming for a well-rounded and robust defense for the coming season.
Special Teams Adjustment for the New York Jets and Buffalo Bills
The New York Jets traded defensive back and return specialist Brandon Codrington to the Buffalo Bills. The Jets received a swap of late-round picks in 2026 in return for Codrington. This move will likely enhance the Bills' special teams, as Codrington's prowess as a return specialist could provide a significant boost.
As the dust settles from these numerous trades and roster changes, teams are poised to enter the 2024 NFL season with revamped lineups and renewed strategies. The moves made in this critical week before kickoff will be scrutinized as the season progresses, with fans and analysts alike eager to see how these decisions play out on the field.