This week's NFL roster cuts saw an unprecedented number of players released as teams had to trim their rosters from a maximum of 90 players down to 53 by the deadline of 1 p.m. PDT on Tuesday. Among the players facing the axe were the league's tallest and heaviest athletes, a former star running back for the Rams, and several quarterbacks who were unable to secure their spots despite having ample playing time during the preseason.
As teams gear up for the regular season, many of those cut will likely be re-signed to practice squads, which can be formed as early as Wednesday morning. However, these players now face a night of uncertainty as they contemplate their future in the league.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most notable quarterback cuts:
Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Eagles: The former UCLA standout was acquired by Philadelphia in March but was unable to secure a backup role behind Jalen Hurts after the team brought in Sam Howell from Minnesota. Dresser Winn, Rams: Despite a solid performance in the Rams’ preseason finale, Winn was waived as the team opted for Stetson Bennett and Jimmy Garoppolo to back up Matthew Stafford. DJ Uiagalelei, Chargers: The former St. John Bosco star found himself out of the running for the backup role behind Justin Herbert, overtaken by Trey Lance and Taylor Heinicke. Tyler Huntley, Browns: After being signed as insurance for Kenny Pickett, Huntley couldn't secure a spot in a crowded quarterback room alongside veteran Joe Flacco. Sam Hartman, Commanders: Competing for the backup spot, Hartman was unable to outperform veterans Marcus Mariota and Josh Johnson. Logan Woodside, Steelers: Woodside's tenure in Pittsburgh was brief as the team chose to go with Mason Rudolph and others behind Aaron Rodgers. Bailey Zappe, Chiefs: Zappe's second stint with Kansas City came to an end as he lost out to Gardner Minshew and Chris Oladokun. Brett Rypien, Vikings: Rypien found himself cut after Minnesota revamped its backup situation amid impressive performances from undrafted rookie Max Brosmer. Tommy DeVito, Giants: With the addition of veteran quarterbacks, DeVito was unable to secure a spot despite starting eight games in the previous two seasons. Hendon Hooker, Lions: The 2023 third-round pick lost out on a backup position to Kyle Allen after a lackluster preseason. Kyle Trask, Buccaneers: After being drafted in 2021, Trask was overtaken by Teddy Bridgewater for the backup role behind Baker Mayfield. Jake Haener, Saints: Despite being a third-round pick, Haener was cut from a team still searching for a starting quarterback. Desmond Ridder, Bengals: The former third-round pick will not back up Joe Burrow in Cincinnati after making 18 starts previously.Several notable offensive players also found themselves without a team:
Cam Akers, RB, Saints: After a tumultuous exit from the Rams, Akers was cut after disappointing performances, managing only 16 yards in eight carries this preseason. Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB, Saints: Another Super Bowl champion cut by New Orleans, Edwards-Helaire will not join the Saints' backfield led by Alvin Kamara. Robert Woods, WR, Steelers: The veteran receiver had a challenging offseason and was unable to secure a spot after a lackluster previous season. Hunter Renfrow, WR, Panthers: The former Pro Bowl receiver struggled to return to form after missing last season. Marquez Valdes-Scantling, WR, Seahawks: Valdes-Scantling was unable to replace the traded DK Metcalf and was outperformed by a rookie. Michael Gallup, WR, Commanders: After attempting a comeback, Gallup couldn't secure a roster spot. Dustin Hopkins, PK, Browns: The veteran kicker was released after struggling with accuracy in the preseason. Kenyon Green, G, Eagles: The former first-round pick was cut despite an injury in the offensive line. Dan Skipper, OT, Lions: Standing at 6-foot-10, Skipper's long tenure with the Lions has come to an end. Trent Brown, OT, Texans: Once the highest-paid offensive lineman, Brown's injury struggles led to his release.Defensive cuts also made headlines, with several notable names released:
Desmond Watson, DT, Buccaneers: The heaviest player in NFL history was unable to make the roster after failing to lose enough weight. Shilo Sanders, S, Buccaneers: The son of Deion Sanders was cut following an ejection for unsportsmanlike conduct during a preseason game. Mike Edwards, S, Chiefs: The two-time Super Bowl champion couldn't find a spot on the roster after returning to Kansas City. Isaiah Simmons, LB, Packers: The former top-10 draft pick was unable to secure a position in Green Bay. Clelin Ferrell, DE, Commanders: Another former first-round pick, Ferrell finds himself on the market following a lackluster performance.The recent NFL roster cuts highlight the competitive nature of the league as teams finalize their squads for the upcoming season. Fans are left to wonder where these talented athletes will land next as they navigate the uncertain waters of free agency.
