The 2022 NFL season will kick off a week from Thursday as the Super Bowl champion Los Angeles Rams host the Buffalo Bills (8:20 p.m. ET, NBC) — which means teams are cutting their rosters in preparation.
Teams were required to cut to 53 players by 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday. Cuts came earlier as teams finished their three preseason games on Sunday to accommodate the 17-game regular-season schedule.
Of the cuts, wide receiver Josh Gordon (Chiefs), running back Marlon Mack (Texans) and quarterback Kellen Mond (Vikings) are among the biggest names. Miami Dolphins cornerback Byron Jones and Buffalo Bills cornerback Tre’Davious White were placed on the PUP (physically unable to perform) list and both will miss a minimum of four games. Players starting the season on the PUP list don’t count against the 53-man roster cap. Indianapolis Colts activated linebacker Shaquille Leonard off of the PUP list today, giving hope of a soon return.
There have also been multiple trades made this week as teams look to make room or bolster their roster. Follow along on our preseason trade tracker for those moves.
We tracked the biggest moves across the league and compiled each roster cut here.
Jump to:
ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN
CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND
JAX | KC | LAC | LAR | LV | MIA | MIN
NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF
SEA | TB | TEN | WSH
NFC East
Biggest move: The Cowboys have kept just one quarterback, Dak Prescott, on the 53-man roster? No, they’re not being outrageous in releasing Cooper Rush and Will Grier. Rush does not go through waivers, so can be re-signed to the practice squad. Grier has to clear waivers, which the Cowboys hope happens so they can bring him back at some point. They’re massaging the roster. They need room for injured players like Tyron Smith and James Washington, who need to be on the roster for a day before going on injured reserve in order to return later in the season. They don’t have a kicker or a long-snapper? Again, they’re not being outrageous. Brett Maher, Jake McQuaide and C.J. Goodwin (their special teams ace) will be back in some form as the team tries to work a larger roster than just 53 players when factoring in the ability to call up players from the practice squad. There is a method to their thinking. –– Todd Archer
Waived/released: QB Ben DiNucci, WR T.J. Vasher, WR Dontario Drummond, LB Malik Jefferson, LB Storey Jackson, DE Mika Tafua, DE Markaviest Bryant, OL Isaac Alarcon, OL Amon Simon, OL Braylon Jones, OL James Empey, WR Brandon Smith, DT Josiah Bronson, S Juanyeh Thomas, DT Carlos Watkins, RB Aaron Shampklin (injured), CB Isaac Taylor-Stuart (injured), OT Aviante Collins, S Tyler Coyle, TE Sean McKeon, RB Malik Davis, C Alec Lindstrom, K Brett Maher, LS Jake McQuaide, CB C.J. Goodwin, QB Cooper Rush, QB Will Grier
Reserve/NFI: LB Damone Clark
Biggest move: The Giants left themselves vulnerable at quarterback with only two options, at least for the time being. Davis Webb was cut after a strong preseason (60-of-81 passing for 458 yards, three TDs and zero interceptions). Backup Tyrod Taylor was banged up on Sunday against the Jets (back), and even though Taylor practiced on Tuesday, waiving Webb is risky. Webb could be claimed, decide to go into coaching after turning down an opportunity in Buffalo this offseason, or just sign elsewhere. That would leave the Giants scrambling at the last minute for another contingency plan entering the season. That’s really not ideal after New York had QB problems behind Daniel Jones last season. –– Jordan Raanan
Waived/released: QB Davis Webb, WR C.J. Board, S Yusuf Corker, RB Jashaun Corbin, RB Sandro Platzgummer, DB Olaijah Griffin, CB Darren Evans, CB Harrison Hand, CB Khalil Dorsey, CB Zyon Gilbert, S Nathan Meadors, S, Trenton Thompson, TE Austin Allen, OT Roy Mbaeteka, OL Josh Rivas, OT Eric Smith, OL Jamil Douglas, OL Will Holden, OL Garrett McGhin, WR Alex Bachman, WR Keelan Doss, WR Jaylon Moore, WR Travis Toivonen, OLB Quincy Roche, DL Ryder Anderson, DL Jalyn Holmes, DL David Moa, K Ryan Santoso
Biggest move: The Eagles made a significant shift at safety, releasing projected starter Anthony Harris and then acquiring C.J. Gardner-Johnson from the New Orleans Saints. Safety has been widely viewed as the shakiest position on an otherwise sound roster. Gardner-Johnson has worked primarily as a slot corner in the pros but does have safety experience in his background. Assuming the transition goes well, he should help solidify a defensive back group that includes corners Darius Slay, James Bradberry and Avonte Maddox and up-and-coming safety Marcus Epps. — Tim McManus
Waived/released: WR Deon Cain, OT Le’Raven Clark, S Anthony Harris, TE Richard Rodgers, S Jaquiski Tartt, C Cameron Tom, WR Devon Allen, OL Jack Anderson, OL Kayode Awosika, CB Josh Blackwell, RB Kennedy Brooks, S Andre Chachere, WR Britain Covey, LB Christian Elliss, CB Mario Goodrich, CB Tay Gowan, WR John Hightower, RB Jason Huntley, DE Matt Leo, CB Mac McCain III, QB Reid Sinnett, LB JaCoby Stevens, QB Carson Strong, TE Noah Togiai, CB Kary Vincent Jr., DT Marvin Wilson, DT Renell Wren, DT Kobe Smith
Reserve/injured: WR Greg Ward
Biggest move: Perhaps the biggest move is the one the Commanders didn’t make. They kept rookie running back Brian Robinson Jr. on the active roster, two days after he was shot twice and needed surgery following an armed robbery attempt. Washington still isn’t sure when he’ll return, but the fact that he was not placed on the non-football injury list — so far — means there’s a chance he could return sooner rather than later. The Commanders love how he runs between the tackles and consistently gains positive yards. Washington kept a fourth running back, Jonathan Williams, for more insurance behind Antonio Gibson and J.D. McKissic just in case. — John Keim
Waived/released: OT Alex Akingbulu, DT David Bada, TE Kendall Blanton, RB Reggie Bonnafon, DE William Bradley-King, DT Tyler Clark, WR Matt Cole, CB Corn Elder, WR Alex Erickson, S Ferrod Gardner, DT Justin Hamilton, TE Jake Hausmann, LB Khaleke Hudson, CB Danny Johnson, OG Nolan Laufenberg, OG Wes Martin, WR Kyric McGowan, WR Marken Michel, OT Aaron Monteiro, CB DeJuan Neal, DE Jacub Panasiuk, S Steven Parker, RB Jaret Patterson, C Jon Toth, LB Tre Walker
Injured reserve: OT Willie Beavers, C Keith Ismael, CB Josh Drayden
NFC North
Biggest move: Because of injuries, Chicago kept seven wide receivers, including Dante Pettis and Tajae Sharpe, who fought their way onto the initial 53 after flashing in preseason action. The Bears are expected to move N’Keal Harry (ankle) to injured reserve on Wednesday with the hopes of a return this season, but there’s still no timetable for when Sharpe (hamstring), Byron Pringle (quad) or Velus Jones Jr. (undisclosed injury) will return to practice. Fortunately for the Bears, they are seventh in the claim order and could look to waivers to find another receiver to upgrade its depth at the position. — Courtney Cronin
Waived/released: TE Chase Allen, WR Isaiah Coulter, DL Micah Dew-Treadway, OL Dieter Eiselen, RB Darrynton Evans, WR Chris Finke, LB DeMarquis Gates, DB Thomas Graham Jr., DL Sam Kamara, OL Lachavious Simmons, DE Charles Snowden, DB A.J. Thomas, RB De’Montre Tuggle, WR Nsimba Webster
Waived/terminated contracts: OL Shon Coleman, DL Trevon Coley, DL Mario Edwards Jr., DB Davontae Harris, QB Nathan Peterman, OL Michael Schofield, DB Greg Stroman Jr.
Waived/NFI: TE James O’Shaughnessy
Reserve/injured: CB Tavon Young
Biggest move: Although Tom Kennedy was one of the stars of the preseason, the front office had to make a difficult decision to waive the 2019 undrafted free agent because of the depth in the receiving corps. After a disappointing performance in the preseason finale, the Lions also released backup quarterback Tim Boyle. — Eric Woodyard
Waived/released: QB Tim Boyle, LB Jarrad Davis, TE Devin Funchess, DL Bruce Hector, RB Justin Jackson, OT Kendall Lamm, OT Dan Skipper, WR Maurice Alexander, CB Cedric Boswell, TE Derrick Deese Jr., OT Obinna Eze, CB Mark Gilbert, LB James Houston, RB Godwin Igwebuike, WR Tom Kennedy, CB AJ Parker, K Riley Patterson, OT Darrin Paulo, WR Kalil Pimpleton, LB Anthony Pittman, CB Saivion Smith, DL Eric Banks, WR Trinity Benson, DL Jashon Cornell, G Kevin Jarvis, S C.J. Moore
Reserve/suspended: CB Jerry Jacobs
Biggest move: Defensive lineman Armon Watts started nine games last season and, even after the Vikings switched to a 3-4 scheme, was working with the first team throughout training camp and the preseason. But the Vikings unexpectedly waived him in the final year of his contract, coinciding with a trade that brought defensive lineman Ross Blacklock from the Houston Texans. It’s possible that Blacklock will be a better fit for the scheme, but this was by far the biggest surprise of the day for the Vikings. — Kevin Seifert
Traded: OT Jesse Davis
Waived/released: S Mike Brown, WR Dan Chisena, TE Zach Davidson, OL Wyatt Davis, S Myles Dorn, CB Nate Hairston, OL Kyle Hinton, WR Trishton Jackson, RB Bryant Koback, LB William Kwenkeu, LB Blake Lynch, WR Myron Mitchell, LB Zach McCloud, QB Sean Mannion, QB Kellen Mond, TE Nick Muse, CB Parry Nickerson, OT Timon Parris, LB Janarius Robinson, DL T.J. Smith, CB Tye Smith, C Josh Sokol, LB Chazz Surratt, DL Jaylen Twyman, DE Armon Watts
Waived/injury settlement: DL Jullian Taylor
Injured reserve: WR Bisi Johnson, DL T.Y. McGill
Biggest move: If the last two years of cutdown days have told players anything, it’s that if you’re drafted by the Packers, you’re almost a lock to stick on the team’s initial 53-man roster. A year after GM Brian Gutekunst kept eight of his nine draft picks, he went 11 for 11. That includes all four seventh-round picks, led by receiver Samori Toure, who grabbed the seventh receiver spot over Juwann Winfree, a returning player who had drawn praise from no less an important figure than Aaron Rodgers. It’s possible Gutekunst felt he could get Winfree through waivers and back to the practice squad more easily than he could with Toure. After all, some of Winfree’s best plays this summer have come in practice, while Toure was more noticeable in the preseason games that everyone gets to see. — Rob Demovsky
Waived/released: K Ramiz Ahmed, TE Sal Cannella, S De’Vante Cross, CB Kabion Ento, QB Danny Etling, WR Travis Fulgham, CB Rico Gafford, RB Tyler Goodson, OLB LaDarius Hamilton, DT Jack Heflin, T Caleb Jones, OLB Kobe Jones, C Michal Menet, DT Chris Slayton, RB Patrick Taylor, CB Kiondre Thomas, LB Ray Wilborn, RB Dexter Williams, WR Juwann Winfree
Waived/injured: TE Nate Becker, DL Akial Byers, S Shawn Davis, S Innis Gaines, WR Ishmael Hyman, TE Alize Mack
NFC South
Biggest move: There were very few surprises by the Falcons at the roster cutdown — tight end Anthony Firkser was perhaps the most surprising player released — but what is more intriguing is who the team kept. The Falcons might put players on injured reserve Wednesday, so it’s possible Firkser or another cut player returns quickly. Receiver Jared Bernhardt, a converted lacrosse player-turned-quarterback, made the initial 53-man roster after catching a game-winning touchdown pass against Detroit and making multiple plays against the New York Jets. One thing the Falcons did do was keep guys who offered versatility. There’s Bernhardt, quarterback-turned-tight end Feleipe Franks, cornerback-turned-running back Avery Williams and defensive lineman-turned-tight end Parker Hesse on the roster. So having flexibility is certainly key in Atlanta. — Michael Rothstein
Waived/released: DL Abdullah Anderson, CB Corey Ballentine, WR Cameron Batson, WR Stanley Berryhill, S Henry Black, EDGE Jordan Brailford, DL Darrion Daniels, WR Frank Darby, TE Anthony Firkser, TE Tucker Fisk, OL Colby Gossett, CB Matt Hankins, OL Jonotthan Harrison, RB Caleb Huntley, WR KeeSean Johnson, LB Nick Kwiatkoski, OL Ryan Neuzil, RB Qadree Ollison, TE MyCole Pruitt, OL Justin Shaffer, S Teez Tabor, DL Derrick Tangelo, DL Nick Thurman, OL Tyler Vrabel, OL Leroy Watson.
Waived/injured: LB Dorian Etheridge, TE John Raine
Biggest move: Nothing was bigger than general manager Scott Fitterer sending a 2023 seventh-round pick and 2024 sixth-rounder to Jacksonville for wide receiver Laviska Shenault, Jr., and then trading offensive lineman Dennis Daley and a 2024 seventh-rounder to Tennessee for a 2024 fifth-rounder. Shenault gives quarterback Baker Mayfield the physical receiver he needs and made wide receivers such as Brandon Zylstra and C.J. Saunders expendable. Daley wasn’t going to make the roster because the depth on the offensive line was so improved (e.g., 2021 sixth-round pick Deonte Brown was also released) during the offseason, so the higher pick was a bonus. — David Newton
Traded: OL Dennis Daley
Waived/released: TE Josh Babicz, DB Kalon Barnes, S Juston Burris, OL Deonte Brown, RB Spencer Brown, DB Tae Hayes, DB Madre Harper, DT Frank Herron, OL Mike Horton, DE Darryl Johnson, DE Drew Jordan, WR Keith Kirkwood, DE Austin Larkin, RB John Lovett, LB Arron Mosby, LB Isaiah Graham-Mobley (injured), WR Charleston Rambo, WR Ra’Shaun Henry, S Kenny Robinson, WR C.J. Saunders, OL Sam Tecklenburg, TE Colin Thompson, LB Josh Watson, WR Derek Wright, WR Brandon Zylstra
Reserve/injured: K Zane Gonzalez, LB Julian Stanford
Biggest move: The Saints made a surprise move by trading nickel corner C.J. Gardner-Johnson and a 2025 seventh-round pick to the Eagles for a 2023 fifth-round pick and a 2024 sixth-round pick. The trade followed a short contract standoff from the beginning of training camp when he was not fully participating in practice, but that ended quickly. Gardner-Johnson started 11 games for the Saints last season and now will have to be replaced, likely by Bradley Roby, who can play both inside and outside. The Saints also remain light on linebackers and will likely have to continue looking at that position this week to try to add depth. — Katherine Terrell
Traded: DB C.J. Gardner-Johnson
Waived/released: DB Brian Allen, OL Josh Andrews, DT Josh Black, QB Ian Book, LB Jon Bostic, DE Taco Charlton, WR Dai’Jean Dixon, DB DaMarcus Fields, DB Vincent Gray, LB Chase Hansen, TE J.P. Holtz, DT Jordan Jackson, OT Derrick Kelly II, TE Lucas Krull, DE Niko Lalos, C Nick Martin, DB Quenton Meeks, WR Kirk Merritt, OL Derek Schweiger, LB Nephi Sewell, WR Rashid Shaheed, RB Abram Smith, LB Eric Wilson, OT Khalique Washington
Reserve/suspended: WR Kawaan Baker (suspended)
Injured reserve: DT Albert Huggins
Biggest move: The most surprising move was releasing defensive back Logan Ryan. It’s likely procedural only though. It would allow them to carry center Ryan Jensen on the initial 53-man roster for one day, which is needed in order for him to go to injured reserve and potentially be brought back later in the season. Because of his veteran status, Ryan wouldn’t be subject to waivers unlike other players on the Bucs roster, and he could be brought back Wednesday. — Jenna Laine
Traded: ILB Grant Stuard
Waived/released: OLB Elijah Ponder (injured), OLB Genard Avery, QB Ryan Griffin, DB Logan Ryan, DL Deadrin Senat, G Sadarius Hutcherson, G John Molchon, OL Dylan Cook, TE J.J. Howland, WR Jerreth Sterns, WR Tyler Johnson, WR Deven Thompkins, WR Kaylon Geiger, RB Patrick Laird, DL Benning Potoa’e, DL Mike Greene, DL Willington Previlon, LB J.J. Russell, OLB Jordan Young, OLB Andre Anthony, CB Don Gardner, CB Kyler McMichael, S Chris Cooper, S Nolan Turner, K Jose Borregales
Reserve/suspended: CB Rashard Robinson
NFC West
Biggest move: The Seahawks made their biggest decision Friday when Pete Carroll named Geno Smith the winner of their quarterback battle. So cut-down day lacked serious drama but still had some notable moves. The biggest one was the release of veteran Justin Coleman, who has looked like the favorite to be Seattle’s primary nickelback. It’s not clear if this means rookie Coby Bryant has won the job or if the Seahawks merely cut Coleman in order to temporarily save a roster spot, with a plan to bring him back. The other big name was safety Marquise Blair, a 2019 second-round pick who fell out of the nickel battle. — Brady Henderson
Waived/released: WR Freddie Swain, WR Aaron Fuller, WR J.J. Arcega-Whiteside, WR Cade Johnson, WR Bo Melton, WR Kevin Kassis, QB Jacob Eason, G/C Dakoda Shepley, T Liam Ryan, G/T Greg Eiland, TE Tyler Mabry, TE Cade Brewer, RB Darwin Thompson, RB Ronnie Rivers, CB Justin Coleman, CB Jameson Houston, S Marquise Blair, S Deontai Williams, S Scott Nelson, LB Aaron Donkor, LB Joel Dublanko, LB Lakiem Williams, LB Vi Jones, LB Tanner Muse, DT Jarrod Hewitt
Waived/injured: RB Josh Johnson
Reserve/injured: OLB Tyreke Smith
Reserve/PUP: CB Tre Brown
Biggest move: The 49ers’ most significant move is the one they did not make: keeping quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo after he agreed to a massive pay cut. The reworked one-year deal lowered his 2022 salary cap number by roughly $18 million. Keeping Garoppolo at a reduced salary gives the Niners their best-case scenario for a backup to unproven Trey Lance and though it raises questions about how it will all play out, it’s a worthwhile move for a team that has Super Bowl aspirations. For Garoppolo, it provides a level of comfort that should help him rehabilitate his value — whether he plays or not — heading into free agency in 2023. — Nick Wagoner
Waived/released: CB Ka’dar Hollman, CB Tariq Castro-Fields, OL Jason Poe, OL Dohnovan West, CB Ken Crawley, RB JaMycal Hasty, WR Willie Snead IV, LB Segun Olubi, OL Alfredo Gutierrez, OL Jordan Mills, WR Marcus Johnson, WR Tay Martin, CB Qwuantrezz Knight, OL Justin Skule, DE Kemoko Turay, S Dontae Johnson, WR Malik Turner, DT Kevin Atkins, QB Nate Sudfeld, TE Tyler Kroft, TE Troy Fumagalli, S Tashaun Gipson Sr., DT Akeem Spence, DE Jordan Willis, DL Alex Barrett, S Tayler Hawkins, LB Marcelino McCrary-Ball, OL Keaton Sutherland
Biggest move: Rams wide receiver Lance McCutcheon made Los Angeles’ initial 53-man roster, one of seven receivers on the active roster. The undrafted free agent from Montana State came into training camp in a crowded position group, even with Van Jefferson out with a knee injury. But McCutcheon made it difficult for general manager Les Snead and coach Sean McVay to make any other decision, finishing the preseason with 15 catches for 259 yards and two touchdowns. — Sarah Barshop
Waived/released: WR Landen Akers, OT AJ Arcuri, OT Chandler Brewer, DE Earnest Brown IV, TE Roger Carter Jr., DE T.J. Carter, DT Elijah Garcia, LB Chris Garrett, DB Jake Gervase, DB Grant Haley, TE Jacob Harris, LB Anthony Hines III, DB Dan Isom, G Jeremiah Kolone, DB Duron Lowe, TE Jared Pinkney, OT Max Pircher, RB Trey Ragas, G Jack Snyder, DE Brayden Thomas, WR Austin Trammell, DE Benton Whitley
Waived/injured: DB Tyler Hall
Reserve/suspended: NT Bobby Brown III
Reserve/injured: G Logan Bruss
Reserve/NFI: LB Travin Howard
Reserve/PUP: DB Quentin Lake
Biggest move: Releasing linebacker Devon Kennard came as a surprise to a lot of people but especially to the 31-year-old. By moving on from Kennard, the Cardinals opted to go with a younger pass-rushing corps in the wake of deciding not to bring back 32-year-old Chandler Jones, who signed with the Raiders in free agency. Losing Kennard’s leadership in the locker room will be a blow to Arizona’s defense as it tries to make up for Jones’ loss, as well. — Josh Weinfuss
Waived/released: TE Stephen Anderson, WR Andre Baccellia, WR Victor Bolden, LS Aaron Brewer, OL Rashaad Coward, QB Jarrett Guarantano, OL Danny Isidora, DL Manny Jones, LB Devon Kennard, WR Jontre Kirklin, LB Jesse Luketa, QB Trace McSorley, WR JaVonta Payton, TE Bernhard Seikovits, CB Jace Whittaker, S James Wiggins, DL Antwaun Woods, LB Chandler Wooten
Injured reserve: OL Marquis Hayes
Waived/injured: S Tae Daley, OL Greg Long, OL Josh Miles, TE Chris Pierce Jr
Injury settlements: OL Justin Murray, DL Christian Ringo
AFC East
Biggest move: The major move of the day was placing Byron Jones on the reserve/physically unable to perform list — meaning he will miss at least the first four games. The starting cornerback opposite Xavien Howard had surgery on his left Achilles tendon in March that was meant to clean up a lingering injury from the regular season. He was expected to be ready for training camp, a source told ESPN at the time, but he missed the entire summer. In Jones’ absence, former first-round pick Noah Igbinoghene presumably steps into a critical opportunity as Miami’s new starter. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Waived/released: RB Sony Michel, WR Mohamed Sanu Sr., WR Preston Williams, WR Lynn Bowden Jr., DT Ben Stille, OT Larnel Coleman, OT Kion Smith, OL Kellen Diesch, RB Gerrid Doaks, DB Quincy Wilson Jr., OL Adam Pankey, OL Blaise Andries, DT Niles Scott, RB ZaQuandre White, CB Elijah Hamilton, LB Darius Hodge, DB D’Angelo Ross, WR River Cracraft, DT Benito Jones, LB Cameron Goode, LB Porter Gustin, OL Solomon Kindley, S Verone McKinley III, WR Braylon Sanders
Reserve/suspended: CB Byron Jones, LB Calvin Munson, LB Brennan Scarlett
Biggest move: While tight end O.J. Howard not making the roster would have been a surprise a couple of months ago, his performance in camp suggested this move was coming. Instead, cornerback Tre’Davious White being placed on the reserve/PUP list is a confirmation of significant news for Buffalo. The team will be without its top outside corner for at least the first four games, but likely more as GM Brandon Beane said last week that they would want to see White practice before he plays in a game. The Bills will be relying on young corners — Dane Jackson, Kaiir Elam and Christian Benford — for the first quarter of the season. — Alaina Getzenberg
Waived/released: QB Matt Barkley, OL Jacob Capra, OL Tanner Owen, OL Greg Mancz, OL Luke Tenuta, OL Alec Anderson, WR Tanner Gentry, WR Isaiah Hodgins, WR Neil Pau’u, RB Raheem Blackshear, RB Duke Johnson, TE O.J. Howard, DT Brandin Bryant, DT Prince Emili, DT C.J. Brewer, DE Kingsley Jonathan, DE Mike Love, DE Daniel Joseph, LB Joe Giles-Harris, DB Jordan Miller, DB Josh Thomas, DB Nick McCloud, DB Ja’Marcus Ingram
Reserve/suspended: LB Andre Smith
Biggest move: The Jets’ most significant move was a non-move. They kept disgruntled receiver Denzel Mims, who publicly requested a trade last week. They never considered cutting their 2020 second-round pick; the only question was whether they’d trade him. That still isn’t off the table. For now, he’s the sixth receiver in a six-man receiving corps, which means he probably won’t dress on game day. He produced in the preseason with the backups, but this coaching staff doesn’t value him as much as the previous staff and won’t play him unless there’s an injury. Among the cuts, the biggest surprise was backup S Jason Pinnock, a 2021 fifth-round pick who seemed to be on the rise. He and veteran Will Parks outplayed Ashtyn Davis (2020, third round), but Davis might have made the team based on draft status. –– Rich Cimini
Waived/released: RB Tevin Coleman, RB La’Mical Perine, QB Chris Streveler, WR Calvin Jackson, WR Tarik Black, WR Irvin Charles, TE Trevon Wesco, TE Kenny Yeboah, FB Nick Bawden, OT Chuma Edoga, OT Conor McDermott, C Ross Pierschbacher, OT Grant Hermanns, OG Chris Glaser, DT Jonathan Marshall, DT Tanzel Smart, DE Jabari Zuniga, DE Bradlee Anae, LB Hamsah Nasirildeen, LB Marcell Harris, LB Del’Shawn Phillips, LB DQ Thomas, CB Javelin Guidry, CB Isaiah Dunn, CB Rachad Wildgoose, S Jason Pinnock, S Will Parks
Biggest move: For the 19th year in a row, the Patriots had at least one undrafted free agent make the initial 53-man roster by keeping core special teamer Brenden Schooler and outside linebacker DaMarcus Mitchell. The emergence of Schooler helped make veteran Justin Bethel expendable, which was one of the team’s most notable moves. That highlights an overall infusion of youth, as there were eight draft picks from 2022 who also earned initial spots. Now the question is whether the coaching staff can help harness those assets. Look for the moves to continue Wednesday after the Patriots place WR Tyquan Thornton and likely RB Ty Montgomery on injured reserve. — Mike Reiss
Waived/released: TE Devin Asiasi, ST/CB Justin Bethel, G Drew Desjarlais, OT Yasir Durant, C/G James Ferentz, G Arlington Hambright, WR Josh Hammond, RB Kevin Harris, S Brad Hawkins, WR Lil’Jordan Humphrey, LB Harvey Langi, LB Cameron McGrone, CB Terrance Mitchell, G Bill Murray, WR Tre Nixon, DT Jeremiah Pharms Jr., DT LaBryan Ray, C Kody Russey, OL Will Sherman, TE Matt Sokol, RB J.J. Taylor, K Tristan Vizcaino, LB Nate Wieland, TE Jalen Wydermyer
Reserve/suspended: DT Daniel Ekuale
Injured reserve: DT Henry Anderson, WR Kristian Wilkerson
AFC North
Biggest move: The fact Cincinnati’s punter battle was the most significant one of camp shows how stable the team’s roster is. Veteran Kevin Huber regained his status as the starter, which puts him in position to set the franchise record for games. Huber edged out second-year player Drue Chrisman, an Ohio State punter who pushed Huber until the very end of the preseason. — Ben Baby
Waived/released: S Trayvon Henderson, DE Noah Spence, WR Mike Thomas, LS Cal Adomitis, QB Jake Browning, P Drue Chrisman, OT Devin Cochran, DT Domenique Davis, TE Nick Eubanks, G Lamont Gaillard, G Nate Gilliam, LB Clarence Hicks, CB Delonte Hood, WR Trenton Irwin, DE Raymond Johnson III, LB Keandre Jones, WR Kwamie Lassiter II, TE Thaddeus Moss, G Desmond Noel, RB Jacques Patrick, WR Kendric Pryor, TE Justin Rigg, LB Tegray Scales, DT Tyler Shelvin, DT Tariqious Tisdale
Reserve/PUP: LB Joe Bachie
Exempt/Commissioner permission: S Jessie Bates III
Biggest move: The Ravens’ cuts underscored how much they desperately need outside linebackers. Baltimore released journeyman Steven Means, who could get re-signed, and waived injured Daelin Hayes, a disappointing fifth-round pick from a year ago. This means the Ravens are carrying as many centers (two) as healthy outside linebackers: pass-rushers Odafe Oweh and Justin Houston. Baltimore is also thin at running back after surprisingly waiving rookie sixth-round pick Tyler Badie. But the Ravens are expected to sign Kenyan Drake to a running back group that includes J.K. Dobbins, Mike Davis and Justice Hill. — Jamison Hensley
Waived/released: S Tony Jefferson, OLB Steven Means, G Kahlil McKenzie, CB Kevon Seymour, OT David Sharpe, DE Brent Urban, CB Daryl Worley, RB Tyler Badie, QB Anthony Brown, NT Isaiah Mack, FB Ben Mason, ILB Zakoby McClain, RB Nate McCrary, OLB Jeremiah Moon, DT Rayshad Nichols, TE Tony Poljan, WR Makai Polk, CB David Vereen, WR Binjimen Victor, DB Ar’Darius Washington, WR Raleigh Webb, OLB Chuck Wiley, C Jimmy Murray, P Cameron Dicker
Waived/injured: WR Shemar Bridges, DT Aaron Crawford, OLB Daelin Hayes
Biggest move: Kevin Stefanski has used multiple tight ends — fullbacks as well — as often as any coach in the NFL in his two seasons with the Browns. But Cleveland kept only two tight ends (David Njoku, Harrison Bryant) and waived its only fullback, Johnny Stanton, a fan favorite. The Browns are shifting to a more receiver-heavy, wide-open scheme. But wide receiver is the team’s biggest question mark. And backup Jacoby Brissett — not Deshaun Watson — will be quarterbacking the first 11 games. — Jake Trotter
Waived/released: QB Josh Rosen, RB John Kelly Jr., FB Johnny Stanton, WR Mike Harley Jr., WR Easop Winston, WR Ja’Marcus Bradley, WR Daylen Baldwin, WR Javon Wims, TE Nakia Griffin-Stewart, TE Miller Forristall, TE Zaire Mitchell-Paden, OT Ben Petrula, OT Alex Taylor, OG Blake Hance, OG David Moore Jr., C Brock Hoffman, DT Roderick Perry, DT Glen Logan, DE Curtis Weaver, DE Chris Odom, LB Willie Harvey Jr., LB Dakota Allen, CB Herb Miller, CB Shaun Jolly, S Jovante Moffatt, S Lavert Hill
Reserve/suspended: QB Deshaun Watson
Biggest move: The Steelers swapped late-round picks with the Denver Broncos and acquired OLB Malik Reed, giving them much-needed depth behind Alex Highsmith and T.J. Watt. Reed was often the third linebacker in Denver, stepping up when there were injuries to Nick Chubb. Reed started 13 games in each of the past two seasons and racked up 13 sacks. With Highsmith dealing with a lingering ribs injury, the Steelers had an immediate need for quality depth, and got it in acquiring Reed. The team also traded a late-round conditional pick to Minnesota for OL Jesse Davis, who has 72 career starts. — Brooke Pryor
Waived/released: DB Elijah Riley, DB Chris Steele, DB Linden Stephens, DL Carlos Davis, DL Khalil Davis, DL Donovan Jeter, DL Henry Mondeaux, LB Ron’Dell Carter, LB Buddy Johnson, LB Hamilcar Rashed Jr., LB Delontae Scott, LB James Vaughters, OL William Dunkle, OL Adrian Ealy, OL Chaz Green, OL John Leglue, OL Ryan McCollum, RB Max Borghi, TE Kevin Rader, TE Jace Sternberger, WR Tyler Snead, WR Tyler Vaughns, WR Cody White, DB Carlins Platel, LB Marcus Allen, CB Justin Layne, OL Joe Haeg, OL Trent Scott, RB Anthony McFarland Jr.
AFC South
Biggest move: No real surprises for a roster that still has a long way to go to become consistently competitive. Cutting special teams standout Rudy Ford was interesting considering he was brought here last year in free agency by GM Trent Baalke and then-coach Urban Meyer to shore up those units. He ended up also being the team’s nickel corner at times, too. But new special teams coordinator Heath Farwell has gotten good special teams play from young guys like Josh Thompson, Chris Claybrooks and Tim Jones, and that made Ford expendable, especially since the Jaguars didn’t plan on using him on defense. Another interesting thing: The Jaguars are keeping two kickers in James McCourt and Jake Verity. The position has been a major problem since Josh Lambo injured his hip in 2020 and the Jaguars have had five kickers in training camp alone. McCourt and Verity have each been with the team less than 10 days. This is likely a short-term move. — Michael DiRocco
Traded: WR Laviska Shenault Jr.
Waived/released: DL Auzoyah Alufohai, RB Ryquell Armstead, CB Benjie Franklin, DB Brandon Rusnak, LB Chapelle Russell, OT Badara Traore, LB Tyrell Adams, S Rudy Ford, OL K.C. McDermott, WR Laquon Treadwell, DL Israel Antwine, WR Kevin Austin Jr., LB Rashod Berry, WR Jeff Cotton Jr., CB Xavier Crawford, OL Coy Cronk, OL Nick Ford, CB Gregory Junior, S Ayo Oyelola, QB E.J. Perry, TE Gerrit Prince, DT Jay Tufele, OL Darryl Williams, RB Mekhi Sargent, WR Willie Johnson (waived/injured), DT Raequan Williams (waived/injured)
Biggest move: The Titans will have a new punter for the first time in 13 seasons after releasing Brett Kern. Kern was the longest-tenured player on the team. He was named to the Pro Bowl from 2017 to 2019. Kern earned a second-team All-Pro nod in 2017 and was first-team in 2019. It now appears that rookie Ryan Stonehouse will be the punter after averaging 50.1 yards on 13 punts in the preseason. Stonehouse signed with the Titans as an undrafted free agent. He appeared in 53 games over five seasons at Colorado State (2017-21) and is the NCAA career record holder for gross punt average (47.8). — Turron Davenport
Waived/released: OLB David Anenih, RB Trenton Cannon, S Adrian Colbert, OL Christian DiLauro, WR Dez Fitzpatrick, LB Jack Gibbens, S Tyree Gillespie, WR Cody Hollister, OL Hayden Howerton, TE Tommy Hudson, DB Chris Jackson, DB Theo Jackson, LB Joe Jones, P Brett Kern, WR Mason Kinsey, DB Greg Mabin, OL Jalen McKenzie, DL Larrell Murchison, OL Xavier Newman-Johnson, TE Thomas Odukoya, DL Sam Okuayinonu, DL Jayden Peevy, WR Reggie Roberson Jr., G Jordan Roos, OL Andrew Rupcich, DB Tre Swilling, TE David Wells, QB Logan Woodside, OL Willie Wright
Biggest move: The Texans cut running back Marlon Mack. Throughout camp Mack looked solid and appeared to recapture some of the form that allowed him to rush for 1,999 yards and 17 touchdowns from 2018-2019 with the Colts. But fourth-round pick Dameon Pierce flashed promising potential, which made Mack expendable. — DJ Bien-Aime
Waived/released: DE Demone Harris, LB Kevin Pierre-Louis, RB Marlon Mack, WR Jalen Camp, WR Johnny Johnson III, G Max Scharping, OL Jordan Steckler, DB Tristin McCollum, TE Mason Schreck, WR Connor Wedington, S Terrence Brooks, WR Drew Estrada, C Jimmy Morrissey, QB Jeff Driskel, TE Seth Green, DB Jacobi Francis, CB Kendall Sheffield, G Tre’Vour Wallace-Simms, FB Paul Quessenberry, S Grayland Arnold
Biggest move: The Colts’ biggest move didn’t involve a player on the bubble. It was, rather, the decision to activate All-Pro linebacker Shaquille Leonard from the PUP list. Leonard’s inclusion on the active roster increases the likelihood he’ll return to the field early after undergoing offseason back surgery. Players on reserve-PUP must remain there for at least four regular-season games and cannot practice with the team. — Stephen Holder
Waived/released: DT Curtis Brooks, CB Anthony Chesley, DE Kameron Cline, QB Jack Coan, WR Keke Coutee, DB Marcel Dabo, WR Ethan Fernea, WR DeMichael Harris, TE Michael Jacobson, TE Nikola Kalinic, OT Dennis Kelly, LB Brandon King, RB Phillip Lindsay, DT R.J. McIntosh, OT Jordan Murray, WR Samson Nacua, RB D’Vonte Price, S Will Redmond, LB Forrest Rhyne, G Josh Seltzner, LB James Skalski, CB Marvell Tell III, OT Ryan Van Demark, LB Sterling Weatherford, CB Chris Wilcox, DT Chris Williams, RB Ty’Son Williams
Injured reserve: P Rigoberto Sanchez, S Armani Watts
AFC West
Biggest move: The Chiefs kept nine of their 10 draft picks from this year’s class, releasing only seventh-round cornerback Nazeeh Johnson. That’s a much-needed injection of youth for a team that hadn’t drafted more than six players in a year since 2016. As many as six of the players, including first-round picks Trent McDuffie and George Karlaftis, will play significant roles as rookies. — Adam Teicher
Waived/released: S Zayne Anderson, CB Dicaprio Bootle, TE Matt Bushman, G Mike Caliendo, LB Jermaine Carter, LB Jack Cochrane, WR Corey Coleman, DT Matt Dickerson, WR Jerrion Ealy, WR Daurice Fountain, TE Jordan Franks, WR Josh Gordon, OT Vitaliy Gurman, CB Nazeeh Johnson, DE Azur Kamara, S Devon Key, LB Elijah Lee, DE Kehinde Oginni Hassan, WR Cornell Powell, C Austin Reiter, DT Danny Shelton, DT Taylor Stallworth
Biggest move: The Broncos did release a punter — Sam Martin — they had signed to a $7.05 million deal in 2020, but the biggest move they made was the trade of outside linebacker Malik Reed to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Reed had been an effective pass-rusher in both 2020, when Von Miller missed the season with an ankle injury, and last season when Bradley Chubb missed 10 games with multiple ankle surgeries. Reed led the team in sacks in 2020 with eight, but got caught in the squeeze when the Broncos signed Randy Gregory in free agency (five years, $70 million), drafted Nik Bonitto in the second round and moved Baron Browning from inside linebacker to outside linebacker. Browning was the team’s best pass-rusher in the preseason. — Jeff Legwold
Traded: OLB Malik Reed
Waived/released: DE McTelvin Agim, CB Bless Austin, OT Quinn Bailey, LB Jeremiah Gemmel, OT Sebastian Gutierrez, RB JaQuan Hardy, DT Jonathan Harris, CB Faion Hicks, WR Kendall Hinton, QB Josh Johnson, G Zack Johnson, OLB Jonathan Kongbo, P Sam Martin, LB Kana’i Mauga, CB Ja’Quan McMillian, OT Netane Muti, G Michael Niese, RB Devine Ozigbo, TE Dylan Parham, S J.R. Reed, WR Darrius Shepherd, TE Eric Tomlinson, WR Seth Williams
Waived/injured: CB Donnie Lewis Jr.
Injured reserve: WR Brandon Johnson
Biggest move: There were no big surprises when the Chargers cut their roster to 53. However, it’s notable that the Bolts kept all eight of their players selected in the 2022 draft, with Zion Johnson — the 17th overall pick, slated to start at right guard. Two seventh-round selections — cornerback Deane Leonard and fullback Zander Horvath — also made the cut. –– Lindsey Thiry
Waived/released: DL Christian Covington, OT Zack Bailey, WR Michael Bandy, WR Trevon Bradford, DL Andrew Brown, RB Leddie Brown, LB Cole Christiansen, OLB Jamal Davis II, DB Ben DeLuca, OLB Emeke Egbule, DL Joe Gaziano, CB Kemon Hall, OG Ryan Hunter, CB Michael Jacquet, TE Hunter Kampmoyer, OLB Carlo Kemp, TE Erik Krommenhoek, S Raheem Layne, LB Tyreek Maddox-Williams, RB Kevin Marks Jr., WR Jason Moore Jr., FB Gabe Nabers, WR Joe Reed, OT Foster Sarell, CB Brandon Sebastian, DB Mark Webb Jr, TE Sage Surratt
Biggest move: Waiving right tackle Alex Leatherwood, the No. 17 overall pick of the 2021 draft and eating some $7.9 million in salary cap space while paying him his fully guaranteed $14.39 million to go away after no trade partners could be found. Because as damning an indictment as parting ways with Leatherwood is against the old regime of GM Mike Mayock and coach Jon Gruden, it’s just as much evidence of the autonomy provided the new regime of GM Dave Ziegler and coach Josh McDaniels by owner Mark Davis. The offensive line is anything but a strength, so getting rid of Leatherwood speaks volumes. — Paul Gutierrez
Traded: CB Trayvon Mullen Jr.
Waived/released: RT Alex Leatherwood, CB Darius Phillips, WR Keelan Cole, DT Kyle Peko, S Matthias Farley, OT Bamidele Olaseni, CB Bryce Cosby, LB Curtis Bolton, G Alex Bars, CB Isiah Brown, S Qwynnterrio Cole, TE Cole Fotheringham, QB Chase Garbers, G Jordan Meredith, WR Dillon Stoner, DE Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa, DE Zach VanValkenburg, RB Austin Walter, WR Isaiah Zuber, C Hroniss Grasu
Injured reserve: TE Jacob Hollister