NFL Roster Cuts and Trades: A Week of Major Decisions

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, all 32 teams have finalized their 53-man rosters, leading to a flurry of surprising cuts, trades, and strategic moves. Here’s a breakdown of the most significant decisions across the league:

NFC East Highlights

• Dallas Cowboys: With Micah Parsons' status uncertain, James Houston’s disruptive presence in practice earned him a spot. The Cowboys also traded OL Asim Richards to New Orleans.
• New York Giants: Tommy DeVito’s release was expected, but the decision to keep Gunner Olszewski over Ihmir Smith-Marsette as the returner raised eyebrows.
• Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles bolstered their depth by acquiring OT Fred Johnson and QB Sam Howell, adding experience to key positions.

NFC North Highlights

• Chicago Bears: Undrafted WR Jahdae Walker made the roster after a strong preseason, while former third-round pick Kiran Amegadjie was retained despite struggles.
• Detroit Lions: The Lions waived fan-favorite Dan Skipper, signaling potential big moves with three roster spots still open.
• Green Bay Packers: Bo Melton’s transition from wideout to cornerback paid off, while former first-round pick Isaiah Simmons was released.

NFC South Highlights

• Atlanta Falcons: Starting RT Kaleb McGary was placed on IR for the season, and Storm Norton’s injury led to the acquisition of OT Michael Jerrell.
• Carolina Panthers: The release of Pro Bowl WR Hunter Renfrow was a headline-grabber, but keeping four tight ends suggests uncertainty about Tommy Tremble’s health.

NFC West Highlights

• Arizona Cardinals: WR Simi Fehoko’s release was surprising, while first-round pick Walter Nolen III remains on the PUP list.
• Los Angeles Rams: The Rams cut 2025 fifth-round pick Chris Paul Jr., keeping four inside linebackers instead.

AFC East Highlights

• Buffalo Bills: Rookie CB Maxwell Hairston was placed on IR, while Tre’Davious White’s lower leg injury doesn’t appear serious.
• Miami Dolphins: CB Mike Hilton’s release was unexpected, with rookie Jason Marshall Jr. poised to start at nickel.

AFC North Highlights

• Baltimore Ravens: TE Isaiah Likely avoided IR, giving Lamar Jackson a chance to target him early in the season.
• Cincinnati Bengals: Keeping just eight offensive linemen raises questions about depth, especially at right guard.

AFC South Highlights

• Houston Texans: RB Joe Mixon’s placement on the NFI list leaves a big hole in the backfield.
• Indianapolis Colts: The release of 2023 second-round pick JuJu Brents was a surprise, with recent acquisitions Xavien Howard and Mekhi Blackmon filling the void.

AFC West Highlights

• Denver Broncos: CB Damarri Mathis’s release highlights the team’s improved secondary depth.
• Kansas City Chiefs: Keeping eight wide receivers suggests they’re preparing for potential suspensions or injuries.

Key Trades and Acquisitions

• Las Vegas Raiders: Acquired QB Kenny Pickett from the Browns to back up Geno Smith.
• Los Angeles Chargers: Activated RB Najee Harris off the NFI list, signaling his readiness for Week 1.

As teams finalize their rosters, the stage is set for an exciting 2025 NFL season. Stay tuned for more updates as the season kicks off!