The final week before the 2024 NFL season kickoff has been anything but uneventful, as teams finalized their rosters, trimming down from the preseason high of 90 players to the mandated 53. This period is marked by several high-profile trades, waivers, and releases, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting season.
Dallas Cowboys Trade Peyton Hendershot
In a move that underscores their strategic planning, the Dallas Cowboys sent tight end Peyton Hendershot to the Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for a conditional late-round draft pick. Hendershot, who has shown promise, is expected to compete for a backup role behind the formidable Travis Kelce. This trade could bolster the Chiefs' depth at the tight end position, providing additional support and options for their offensive strategy.
Arizona Cardinals' Strategic Trades
The Arizona Cardinals have been active on the trade front, making notable changes to their linebacker lineup. They traded Cameron Thomas, a third-round pick from the 2022 draft, to the Kansas City Chiefs for a seventh-round pick. This move signals the Chiefs' intent to strengthen their defense with young, talented players.
In another significant trade, the Cardinals sent linebacker Ernest Jones to the Tennessee Titans. The deal also included a 2026 sixth-round pick in exchange for a 2025 fifth-round pick. Jones, a key figure as a starting inside linebacker and a team captain, will bring his leadership and skills to the Titans, potentially impacting their defensive dynamics positively.
Malik Willis Finds a New Home
One of the eye-catching moves involved Malik Willis, who was traded by the Tennessee Titans to the Green Bay Packers. The Packers, looking for depth at the quarterback position, sent a seventh-round pick in return. Willis is set to serve as the backup to Jordan Love, which led to the release of fellow 2022 draft pick Sean Clifford. This move indicates the Packers' confidence in Willis' ability to contribute effectively in a supporting role.
Jacksonville Jaguars Adjust Defensive Line
The Jacksonville Jaguars traded defensive lineman Trevis Gipson to the Seattle Seahawks for a 2025 sixth-round pick. This trade comes at a critical time for the Seahawks, who are currently without edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu due to a sprained MCL. Gipson's addition could provide the necessary reinforcement to the Seahawks' defensive line in Nwosu's absence.
Cleveland Browns and Seattle Seahawks Trade Defensive Talent
The Cleveland Browns and Chicago Bears also made a transaction involving defensive lineman Chris Williams. Williams, who spent last season on the practice squad, was sent to the Bears along with a seventh-round pick in exchange for a sixth-round pick. This trade provides the Bears with another option to enhance their defensive strategy.
Similarly, the Seattle Seahawks traded Darrell Taylor to the Chicago Bears for a 2025 sixth-round pick. This move reiterates the Bears' commitment to strengthening their defense with versatile and skilled players.
New York Jets and Buffalo Bills Swap Talent
Finally, in a trade that caught the attention of special teams enthusiasts, the New York Jets traded defensive back and return specialist Brandon Codrington to the Buffalo Bills. The Jets received a swap of late-round picks in 2026 in return. Codrington's dual capability as a defensive back and return specialist is expected to add significant value to the Bills' special teams unit.
As the NFL season approaches, these roster adjustments highlight the strategic maneuvers teams undertake to optimize their lineups. Each trade, waiver, and release carries the potential to reshape team dynamics and influence the outcomes of the upcoming season. With these moves, teams are not just filling spots—they're crafting the future narratives of their respective franchises.