The NFL has recently seen teams trim their rosters down to 53 players, leading to significant changes and surprises across the league. Among these cuts, several decisions stand out, leaving teams with glaring holes and raising questions about their future performance. General managers faced tough choices, and some of these roster decisions may haunt them during the upcoming regular season. Let's explore five notable roster cuts that have sparked concern among fans and analysts alike.
The Atlanta Falcons made the controversial decision to cut safety Jordan Fuller, despite already having three safeties on their 53-man roster. This move raises questions, especially with no apparent plans to add depth at the position. Fuller's familiarity with head coach Raheem Morris, who has significant influence over the defense, could have made him a valuable asset. With experience both as a safety and in the slot, Fuller would have been an upgrade over Dee Alford, who allowed a concerning 117.9 passer rating and eight touchdowns in coverage during the previous season.
While the Falcons' trio of Jessie Bates III, Xavier Watts, and DeMarcco Hellams is solid, the absence of Fuller could prove detrimental. Fuller, who previously recorded a passer rating below 87 in his last two campaigns with the Rams, could have provided the Falcons with the versatility they need in the secondary.
In a surprising move, the Dallas Cowboys released Israel Mukuamu, a talented player with the capability to excel in multiple positions. The Cowboys had high hopes for Mukuamu, who in 2022 logged 17 tackles, an interception, and a pass breakup during his brief stint in the starting rotation. Despite returning to a reserve role, the 25-year-old has been a core special teamer since being drafted in the sixth round in 2021.
With the loss of nickelback Jourdan Lewis in free agency, the Cowboys might have underestimated Mukuamu's potential. Instead of retaining Mukuamu for a shot at the nickelback position, they have decided to shift DaRon Bland into the slot. This decision may reflect changes in the team's defensive coaching staff or a miscalculation about Mukuamu’s future impact.
The Indianapolis Colts may regret their decision to cut cornerback JuJu Brents too soon. Drafted in the second round of the 2023 draft, Brents demonstrated his potential as a rookie, recording 43 tackles, six pass breakups, an interception, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. Unfortunately, injury setbacks have plagued his career, causing him to miss 23 games in two seasons, including nearly all of last season due to a knee injury.
Given his intriguing size at 6'3" and 198 lbs, coupled with flashes of talent, Brents could make a significant impact if he can stay healthy. The Miami Dolphins have claimed him off waivers, and he may thrive in a new environment.
The Los Angeles Rams also faced criticism for cutting cornerback Derion Kendrick, an 18-game starter whose departure weakens the team's depth at a critical position. The Rams' cornerback situation is concerning, with Darious Williams allowing a 101.7 passer rating and Ahkello Witherspoon permitting a 96.9 rating, while Cobie Durant and Emmanuel Forbes offer some upside but lack proven consistency.
Kendrick, who missed the entire 2024 season due to a torn ACL, previously showed promise with 10 pass breakups and an interception during his starting role in 2023. The Seattle Seahawks have now claimed him off waivers, potentially gaining a player who could enhance their defensive lineup.
The recent cuts made by various NFL teams spotlight tough decisions that could impact their performance this season. Players like Jordan Fuller, Israel Mukuamu, JuJu Brents, and Derion Kendrick all possess the potential to make significant contributions elsewhere, leaving their former teams with questions about their depth and decision-making. As the regular season approaches, the ramifications of these roster cuts will soon be put to the test.
