As the 2024 NFL season approaches, teams are making final roster adjustments, cutting down from as many as 90 players to the mandated 53. This week has seen a flurry of activity, including notable trades and player releases that will shape team lineups for the upcoming season.
Key Trades and Adjustments
One of the significant trades involved the Dallas Cowboys sending 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 star tight end Travis Kelce, which provides the Chiefs with added depth and flexibility in their offensive schemes.
The Arizona Cardinals were also active in the trade market, sending linebacker Cameron Thomas to the Kansas City Chiefs for a seventh-round pick. Thomas, a third-round pick from the 2022 draft, looks to bolster the Chiefs' defensive roster. In a separate move, the Cardinals traded linebacker Ernest Jones to the Tennessee Titans. This deal included a 2026 sixth-round pick in exchange for a 2025 fifth-round pick. Jones, a key figure as a starting inside linebacker and team captain, will be a crucial addition to the Titans' defense.
Quarterback Movements
Quarterback Malik Willis found a new home as the Tennessee Titans traded him to the Green Bay Packers. The trade also included a seventh-round pick. Willis is set to serve as the backup to Jordan Love in Green Bay. This move saw the Packers releasing fellow 2022 draft pick Sean Clifford to make room for Willis. The Packers' decision signifies their intent to provide a solid support system for Jordan Love, aiming for a smooth transition in their quarterback lineup.
Reinforcing Defensive Lines
The Jacksonville Jaguars made a move to strengthen their defense by trading defensive lineman Trevis Gipson to the Seattle Seahawks. In return, the Jaguars received a 2025 sixth-round pick. This trade comes at a vital time for the Seahawks, with edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu currently sidelined due to a sprained MCL. Gipson’s addition aims to fill the void and maintain the Seahawks' defensive pressure.
In another defensive trade, the Cleveland Browns sent defensive lineman Chris Williams to the Chicago Bears. The Browns, along with Williams, included a seventh-round pick, receiving a sixth-round pick in exchange. Williams, who spent last season on the practice squad, will likely be looking to secure a more permanent position on the Bears' active roster.
The Seattle Seahawks were not just acquiring talent; they also traded away Darrell Taylor to the Chicago Bears, receiving a 2025 sixth-round pick in return. This trade reflects the Seahawks' strategy in balancing their player roster and gaining future draft assets.
Special Teams Adjustments
The New York Jets contributed to the week's buzz by trading defensive back and return specialist Brandon Codrington to the Buffalo Bills. In exchange, the Jets received a swap of late-round picks in 2026. Codrington's move to the Bills is designed to enhance their special teams unit, particularly in the return game where his agility and speed can be significant assets.
As these moves demonstrate, NFL teams are strategically positioning themselves for the upcoming rigorous season. The trades and roster changes are not just about immediate gains, but also about future planning and creating a balanced, competitive squad. Each team’s front office is meticulously navigating through the final days leading up to the season kickoff, ensuring they field the strongest lineup possible.