The final week before the 2024 NFL season has proven to be a period of significant activity, as teams across the league make pivotal roster decisions. With the deadline for trimming their squads from as many as 90 players down to the mandated 53, several notable trades, waivers, and releases have taken place.
Cowboys and Chiefs Swap Tight Ends
The Dallas Cowboys made headlines by trading tight end Peyton Hendershot to the Kansas City Chiefs. In return, they received a conditional late-round draft pick. Hendershot is expected to compete for a backup role behind All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce, bringing a blend of youth and potential to the Chiefs’ roster.
Cardinals Engage in Multiple Transactions
The Arizona Cardinals have been one of the most active teams, engaging in multiple transactions. Linebacker Cameron Thomas, a third-round pick from the 2022 draft, was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs for a seventh-round pick. This move indicates a strategic shift for the Cardinals as they continue to reshape their roster.
Additionally, the Cardinals sent linebacker Ernest Jones to the Tennessee Titans. In this deal, the Cardinals received a 2025 fifth-round pick in exchange for Jones and a 2026 sixth-round pick. Jones has been a crucial component for the Cardinals, serving as a starting inside linebacker and team captain during his tenure.
Titans and Packers Make Significant Moves
In a noteworthy move, the Tennessee Titans traded quarterback Malik Willis to the Green Bay Packers. The transaction also included a seventh-round pick. Willis, who was previously seen as a potential future starter for the Titans, is now set to serve as the backup to Jordan Love in Green Bay. This move resulted in the Packers releasing fellow 2022 draft pick, Sean Clifford.
Seahawks Bolster Defensive Line
The Jacksonville Jaguars focused their efforts on the defensive front, trading defensive lineman Trevis Gipson to the Seattle Seahawks in return for a 2025 sixth-round pick. This acquisition is timely for the Seahawks, who are dealing with the absence of edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu due to a sprained MCL.
In a related move, the Seahawks traded Darrell Taylor to the Chicago Bears for a 2025 sixth-round pick. These transactions underscore the Seahawks’ commitment to strengthening their defensive line amidst injury concerns.
Browns and Bears Exchange Defensive Assets
The Cleveland Browns have also been involved in the pre-season trading frenzy. They sent defensive lineman Chris Williams to the Chicago Bears, along with a seventh-round pick, in exchange for a sixth-round pick. Williams, who spent last season on the practice squad, will now look to make a mark with the Bears.
Jets and Bills Finalize Trade
Adding to the list of transactions, the New York Jets traded defensive back and return specialist Brandon Codrington to the Buffalo Bills. In return, the Jets and Bills agreed on a swap of late-round picks in 2026, highlighting the strategic tinkering that often characterizes this stage of the NFL calendar.
As the clock ticks down to the start of the 2024 NFL season, teams continue to fine-tune their rosters, making last-minute adjustments and strategic trades. These moves not only reflect the constantly evolving nature of the league but also set the stage for a thrilling season of football.