As teams finalize their rosters ahead of the much-anticipated 2024 NFL season, the final week before kickoff is rife with significant roster adjustments. This pivotal period sees franchises trimming their lineups from as many as 90 players down to the mandated 53, creating a whirlwind of trades, waivers, and releases that shape the landscape of the upcoming season.
Notable Trades and Roster Moves
In a noteworthy move, the Dallas Cowboys traded tight end Peyton Hendershot to the Kansas City Chiefs for a conditional late-round draft pick. Hendershot is expected to compete for a backup role behind star tight end Travis Kelce, adding depth to the Chiefs’ already robust offensive arsenal.
Meanwhile, the Arizona Cardinals were also active in the trade market, sending linebacker Cameron Thomas to the Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for a seventh-round pick. A third-round pick from the 2022 draft, Thomas has exhibited potential and will look to bolster the Chiefs' defensive unit.
The Cardinals didn’t stop there, trading linebacker Ernest Jones to the Tennessee Titans. The deal included the Rams' 2026 sixth-round pick in exchange for a 2025 fifth-round pick. Jones has been a pivotal figure for the Cardinals, serving as a starting inside linebacker and a team captain, and is expected to bring leadership and experience to the Titans' defense.
Impactful Quarterback Moves
The Tennessee Titans made headlines by trading quarterback Malik Willis to the Green Bay Packers. The transaction, which includes a seventh-round pick, positions Willis to serve as the backup to Jordan Love. This move precipitated the release of fellow 2022 draft pick Sean Clifford by the Packers, signaling their confidence in Willis’s ability to perform in a secondary role.
Strategic Defensive Trades
Defense was a focal point for several teams during this roster adjustment period. The Jacksonville Jaguars traded defensive lineman Trevis Gipson to the Seattle Seahawks for a 2025 sixth-round pick. This move is particularly critical for the Seahawks, who are currently without edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu due to a sprained MCL. Gipson's addition aims to fill this immediate void and strengthen the Seahawks’ defensive line.
In another defensive trade, the Cleveland Browns sent defensive lineman Chris Williams to the Chicago Bears. Williams, along with a seventh-round pick, was traded in return for a sixth-round pick. After spending last season on the practice squad, Williams will look to make an impact with the Bears.
The Seahawks were also involved in a deal sending defensive end Darrell Taylor to the Chicago Bears for a 2025 sixth-round pick. This transaction underscores the Bears' focus on bolstering their defensive front with proven talent.
Special Teams and Depth Moves
The New York Jets were not to be left out, trading defensive back and return specialist Brandon Codrington to the Buffalo Bills. In return, the Jets received a swap of late-round picks in 2026. Codrington's versatility as a return specialist will be a valuable asset for the Bills’ special teams.
As these final roster cuts and trades demonstrate, NFL teams are strategically positioning themselves for the rigors of the upcoming season. Each move, whether to secure depth, add experience, or inject fresh talent, reflects the meticulous planning and relentless pursuit of success that defines the NFL's competitive spirit.