The final week before the kickoff of the 2024 NFL season has put the league's front offices in a frenzy of activity, with rosters being trimmed and reshaped as franchises prepare for another grueling campaign. Teams are reducing their squads from as many as 90 players down to the mandated 53, resulting in a flurry of trades, waivers, and releases.
Key Trades and Moves
Among the most notable trades, the Dallas Cowboys have sent tight end Peyton Hendershot to the Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for a conditional late-round draft pick. Hendershot is expected to compete for a backup role behind the Chiefs' standout tight end, Travis Kelce, providing Kansas City with additional depth at a crucial position.
Another significant move involves linebacker Cameron Thomas, who was traded by the Arizona Cardinals to the Kansas City Chiefs for a seventh-round pick. Thomas, a third-round selection from the 2022 draft, adds to Kansas City's defensive options, bringing fresh talent to their linebacker corps.
The Cardinals were active in the trade market, also sending linebacker Ernest Jones to the Tennessee Titans. The deal saw the Rams include a 2026 sixth-round pick in exchange for a 2025 fifth-round pick. Jones, who has been a vital inside linebacker and team captain, will look to bring his leadership and skills to Tennessee.
Player Movement
A notable quarterback transaction sees Malik Willis traded from the Tennessee Titans to the Green Bay Packers. The deal, which includes a seventh-round pick, positions Willis as the backup to Jordan Love. As a result, the Packers released fellow 2022 draft pick Sean Clifford, marking a significant alteration to their quarterback lineup.
Defensive rosters saw changes as well. The Jacksonville Jaguars traded defensive lineman Trevis Gipson to the Seattle Seahawks for a 2025 sixth-round pick. The move comes as the Seahawks cope with the absence of edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu, who is sidelined with a sprained MCL. Gipson's addition aims to bolster Seattle's defensive front in Nwosu’s absence.
Practice Squad Promises
Another defensive player on the move is Chris Williams, who was traded by the Cleveland Browns to the Chicago Bears. Williams, alongside a seventh-round pick, was exchanged for a sixth-round pick. Having spent the last season on the practice squad, Williams will be looking to make a more significant impact with the Bears.
Late Round Shuffle
The Seattle Seahawks continued their activity in the trade market by sending Darrell Taylor to the Chicago Bears for a 2025 sixth-round pick. The reshuffling of late-round picks is indicative of teams looking to tweak their rosters for more balanced squads.
In a move to enhance their special teams, the New York Jets traded defensive back and return specialist Brandon Codrington to the Buffalo Bills. In return, the Jets received a swap of late-round picks in 2026.
As the 2024 NFL season looms, these roster adjustments and strategic trades highlight the dynamic nature of team management and the intricate planning involved in building a competitive lineup. With seasoned professionals and fresh talents gearing up, the stage is set for another exhilarating season of football.