The week leading up to the 2024 NFL season opener has always been a whirlwind of activity, and this year is no exception. Teams across the league are finalizing their 53-man rosters, trimming down from a pre-season high of up to 90 players. Tuesday witnessed a flurry of trades, waivers, and releases that will significantly shape the forthcoming season.
Key Trades and Roster Moves
One of the day’s most notable transactions saw the Dallas Cowboys trade tight end Peyton Hendershot to the Kansas City Chiefs. In exchange, the Cowboys acquired a conditional late-round draft pick. Hendershot is expected to compete for a backup role behind the Chiefs' star tight end, Travis Kelce, adding depth to the already formidable lineup.
The Kansas City Chiefs were also active in another trade, acquiring linebacker Cameron Thomas from the Arizona Cardinals for a seventh-round pick. Thomas, a third-round pick in the 2022 draft, brings youth and potential to Kansas City's defense, which aims to fortify its ranks for the upcoming season.
Meanwhile, the Arizona Cardinals continued their trades by sending linebacker Ernest Jones to the Tennessee Titans. The trade, however, involved a bit of a pick swap: Arizona also included a 2026 sixth-round pick and received a 2025 fifth-round pick in return. Jones has established himself as a key figure in the Cardinals’ defense, serving as a starting inside linebacker and team captain.
Quarterback Shuffle
The quarterback carousel also saw some movement, with the Tennessee Titans trading Malik Willis to the Green Bay Packers. The deal involved a seventh-round pick, and Willis is set to serve as the backup to Jordan Love. To make room for Willis, the Packers released fellow 2022 draft pick Sean Clifford.
Defensive Maneuvers
The Jacksonville Jaguars were active on the trade front, sending defensive lineman Trevis Gipson to the Seattle Seahawks for a 2025 sixth-round pick. This move comes in the wake of edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu’s absence due to a sprained MCL, indicating that the Seahawks are shoring up their defensive line for what promises to be a grueling season.
Another notable defensive trade saw the Cleveland Browns sending defensive lineman Chris Williams to the Chicago Bears. The Browns shipped Williams along with a seventh-round pick in exchange for a sixth-round pick. Williams spent last season on the practice squad, and the Bears are likely aiming to add depth to their defensive roster with his addition.
Also joining the Chicago Bears is Darrell Taylor from the Seattle Seahawks, traded for a 2025 sixth-round pick. The Bears are evidently focused on bolstering their defensive unit, preparing for a season where defensive resilience will be key.
Special Teams and Depth Adjustments
The New York Jets also made strategic moves, 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 speed and agility as a return specialist will be an asset to the Bills' special teams unit, as they look to enhance their return game efficiency.
With rosters being finalized and depth charts taking shape, the next few days will be critical as teams finalize their preparations for the impending 2024 season kickoff. Fans can expect a thrilling season ahead, filled with new faces and emerging talents eager to make their mark on the NFL stage.