2026 NFL preseason finale week and roster cuts

Raiders win waiver priority to claim heavily pursued cornerback Darrell Luter Jr.

The Las Vegas Raiders claimed cornerback Darrell Luter Jr. off waivers from the San Francisco 49ers, adding a depth piece to their secondary after he drew interest from multiple teams including the Titans. The Titans had been eyeing Luter to bolster their depth at cornerback but were outpaced on waivers.

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Sam Howell Becomes Cowboys Backup QB

Sam Howell won the Cowboys’ backup quarterback job behind Dak Prescott after edging out Joe Milton, who was waived, leaving Howell as the sole reserve on the 53-man roster for Week 1. Teammates and coaches praised Howell’s leadership and the benefit of competition in earning the role.

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Jaguars trim roster to 53 while eyeing a repeat AFC South title

The Jacksonville Jaguars aim to repeat as AFC South champions while assessing roster depth and potential upgrades at tight end and offensive line ahead of the 2026 season, highlighting how front-office decisions and player development will shape Week 1 and beyond. The articles also touch on the NFL’s cap-driven parity model and strategic scheduling to sustain December intrigue across teams like the Jaguars, emphasizing the ongoing construction behind a competitive roster.

Odunze sustains apparent leg injury in Bears practice

The Chicago Bears’ Rome Odunze remains a central, versatile asset for Ben Johnson’s offense, praised for doing the “little things” including blocking and physical play, with the coaching staff counting on him as a key cog even as multiple receivers share targets. While Odunze has dealt with foot injuries in past seasons, summer reports indicate no issues this year, though recent practice notes mention an apparent leg injury and other receivers like Luther Burden III also dealing with bumps, signaling a cautious path to the season and ongoing evaluation of his health and role in 2026.

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Chargers name Herbert and James captains as playoff doubts linger

Predictions say the Los Angeles Chargers will miss the 2026 playoffs due to defensive concerns and a demanding early schedule, even as a faster, more potent offense under Mike McDaniel aims to boost Justin Herbert. The team has named ten captains for 2026, overhauled its offensive line and roster on cutdown day with key injuries like Tyler Biadasz, and starts Week 1 against the Cardinals with leadership and depth shaping the season.

Jets audition Justin Tucker and two other kickers before Week 1

The New York Jets continued their search for a reliable kicker by hosting workouts for Justin Tucker, Michael Badgley, and Josh Karty while evaluating Blake Grupe as the Week 1 option and keeping Jason Sanders on the practice squad. Tucker’s recent 10-game suspension and his noted off-field baggage are part of the context as the Jets explore alternatives after parting with Nick Folk and other kickers in the offseason.

Five MEAC alumni, led by veterans Cook and Durant, make 2026 NFL rosters

Five MEAC alumni are on 2026 NFL initial 53-man rosters across the league, with two players each from South Carolina State and Morgan State and one from Howard, highlighting ongoing pipeline from MEAC programs to the NFL. Spotrac’s current-program ranking puts Alabama atop the NFL-players-by-program list with 62 active players, followed by powerhouses like Ohio State and Georgia, while the new college football week features No. 7 Miami at Stanford and No. 14 USC hosting Fresno State.

49ers thin injury-hit defensive line, replace Okuayinonu with Kareem

San Francisco signed veteran defensive end Khalid Kareem and placed Sam Okuayinonu on injured reserve, adding depth to the edge rotation as the 49ers head to Melbourne to face the Rams. Okuayinonu is out for the season opener with a foot injury, leaving Nick Bosa and Keion White as the top edge pair with Kareem stepping in behind them.

Rams Name Simpson QB3, Cardinals Extend Wilson

The Los Angeles Rams have shifted to a 2A/2B approach for backups, giving Stetson Bennett and Ty Simpson parallel development time behind Matthew Stafford. As preseason reps and internal discussions evolved, Bennett remains the more experienced backup, while Simpson has shown enough to keep the competition open, with the official Week 1 depth chart naming Bennett as Stafford’s backup and Simpson as the third-string quarterback.

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Seahawks trade for former quarterback turned cornerback Avery Smith

Undrafted Toledo cornerback Avery Smith was traded from the Los Angeles Chargers to the Seattle Seahawks on the NFL’s roster cut-down day, yielding a 2027 sixth-round pick for an asset the Chargers felt could contribute immediately in Seattle. Smith, surprised by the trade, joined the Seahawks’ defense as they seek depth at cornerback, while Seattle’s personnel praised the move and the Chargers highlighted their roster-management edge.

Cowboys guard Tyler Smith undergoes thumb surgery, return timeline uncertain

Dallas Cowboys left guard Tyler Smith will undergo thumb surgery and miss four to six weeks, being placed on injured reserve with a designation to return. T.J. Bass will start at left guard in his absence, as Smith targets a potential return around Week 5 or later while the team manages grip strength and roster questions up front.

Titans LB Cedric Gray Enters Concussion Protocol After UTV Accident

Titans linebacker Cedric Gray has been placed in concussion protocol after a weekend UTV accident, likely causing him to miss the season opener against the New York Jets. The Titans described the injuries as a concussion with minor additional injuries, and said he should return once he clears the league’s protocol, with no alcohol or reckless driving involved.

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Tank Dell agrees to reworked Texans deal while recovering from knee injury

The Texans restructured Tank Dell's contract for 2026 to a one-year, $1.7 million deal with $1 million guaranteed, saving about $2 million against the cap while he remains on injured reserve and will miss at least the first four games recovering from a catastrophic knee injury. Dell, 26, will look to prove he's back for another contract in Houston as he works toward a full return in the final year of his rookie deal.

Rams Bring Back Donald, Add Myles Garrett

The Los Angeles Rams are continuing to evaluate Aaron Donald’s potential return, giving him time to decide whether to un-retire while preparing for the possibility with ongoing workouts and roster planning. Team figures such as Andrew Whitworth and Sean McVay express strong belief Donald will return if the Rams remain contenders, even as no official decision has been announced.

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Chiefs lean on large rookie class ahead

NFL teams are leaning on promising rookies to reshuffle fortunes, with the Kansas City Chiefs highlighting a strong rookie contingent and Cyrus Allen drawing trust from Patrick Mahomes as he adjusts to Reid’s playbook, while the New York Jets’ six first-round picks are expected to catalyze a culture shift toward the playoffs. Yet early signs point to growing pains for teams relying on youth, as Chiefs’ defense remains a concern for pass rush and rookie adaptation is underway across preseason rosters.

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Raiders Depth Bolstered By Johnson, Hemingway

The Las Vegas Raiders are leaning on a young, improving defense, highlighted by Patrick Johnson clinching a roster spot after late signing and Tonka Hemingway’s rise as a potential starter, signaling a longer-term rebuild. Concurrently, the team finalized its 53-man roster, shuffled veteran numbers (Fatukasi to 94 and Gay to 4) and continued to emphasize depth and maturation, while related notes from Prince Albert showcase two returning 20-year-olds stepping into leadership roles.

NFL Teams Move to Finalize 53-Man Rosters

The Green Bay Packers are trimming to a 53-man roster by Sunday, weighing depth at running back amid a possible Josh Jacobs suspension and pushing toward finalizing Tucker Kraft’s contract while getting Jordan Love ready for the regular season. With Pierre Strong likely in danger of being cut and final decisions looming, coaches are also evaluating tight-end and offensive-line depth as they head toward the season opener against the Vikings.

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Dolphins revamp practice squad, releasing quarterback Mark Gronowski

NFL teams are reshaping their rosters through practice squad moves, with the Miami Dolphins releasing quarterback Mark Gronowski and adding eight players to their PS, while the New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles also filled or replenished multiple practice squad spots and signed a mix of veterans and rookies. Patriots signings include punter Mitch Wishnowsky and interior linemen like Eric Gregory and Jeremiah Pharms, plus Lorenz Metz via the International Pathway program, as the team readies for Week 1 amid continued adjustments, and the Eagles added rookies such as Deontae Lawson and Zion Wilson to their PS after their 53-man roster announcement.

Cowboys Sign 13 to Practice Squad

The Dallas Cowboys added Elijah Garcia to their practice squad after a strong preseason with the Panthers, while also finalizing their initial 53-man roster and building a robust practice squad with players like Reddy Steward, Israel Abanikanda, Justin Barron, Tommy Dunn, Jordan Hudson, and Anthony Smith to provide depth and development for the season. With ongoing signings and potential backfills such as Joe Milton III and others, Dallas aims to maintain a competitive, versatile group ahead of the regular season.

NCAA Rule Changes, NFL Rosters Trim

As NFL teams face cutdown weekend, rosters must be trimmed to 53 by August 30 in a tightened timeline that compresses judgment on final spots, waivers, and practice-squad placements for veterans and rookies alike. The season also features 2026 preseason rules such as larger training camp rosters, potential ties in preseason games, and ongoing shifts in eligibility and conference discussions that could affect how players move between college, the NFL, or other leagues.

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Ducks Alums Hit NFL Waivers as Teams Trim to 53

Oregon Ducks coverage across defensive backs, receivers, running backs, quarterbacks, and recent NFL moves spotlights a rich history of standout players—featuring stars like Byrd, Reed, James, Herbert and others who defined multiple eras. At the same time, the NFL preseason shuffles saw several former Ducks released or waived, including drafted teammates, signaling transition points for the program’s alumni.

Raiders lose rookie edge rusher Keyron Crawford to season-ending injury

Raiders' rookie defensive end Keyron Crawford was placed on season-ending injured reserve with an ankle injury, ruling him out for the 2026 season after a preseason injury. His absence leaves the edge rush rotation thin behind Maxx Crosby, Kwity Paye, Malcolm Koonce, and Patrick Johnson.

Seahawks Cut Diggs, Plan to Add to Practice Squad

The Seattle Seahawks cut Trevon Diggs to reach the 53-man roster limit but intend to re-sign him to the practice squad, avoiding waivers. Diggs, who joined in August and had a preseason interception, was part of a wider cornerback shakeup that included additions and trades to bolster depth.

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Buffalo Bills finalize 53-man roster ahead of 2026 season

The Buffalo Bills completed their 53-man roster, finalizing cuts ahead of the season while remaining adaptable to injuries and waiver moves. Offseason acquisitions—wide receiver DJ Moore and pass rusher Bradley Chubb—along with defensive additions, set up a more explosive offense and improved defense for Josh Allen, with Moore drawing optimism from experts and a strong early camp showing as the team eyes the upcoming regular season and preseason performance.

Patriots Trade for Walter Rouse With 2027 Picks

The New England Patriots acquired offensive tackle Walter Rouse from the Minnesota Vikings in a sixth-round-for-seventh-round draft-pick swap to bolster tackle depth as Marcus Bryant lands on IR, a move aimed at stabilizing the end of roster cuts ahead of Week 1. Rouse, a 25-year-old with eight NFL games and a college career spanning Stanford and Oklahoma, gives New England versatility at tackle/guard as they retool their offensive line.

Rams Finalize 53-Man Roster for 2026 Season

The Los Angeles Rams finalized their 53-man roster for 2026 with Aaron Donald returning from retirement to reinforce the defense, while Sean McVay kept three quarterbacks and loaded depth at wide receiver, tight end, and along the offensive line. After trading Jarquez Hunter and placing Justin Dedich and Keagen Trost on injured reserve, the team faces questions at QB2 and continues to sort through practice-squad considerations as they prepare for Week 1 against the 49ers.

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Seahawks acquire Chargers cornerback Avery Smith

The Seattle Seahawks acquired rookie cornerback Avery Smith from the Los Angeles Chargers in exchange for a 2027 sixth-round pick, adding another young option to a crowded secondary with potential at nickel and special-teams roles. The move comes as Seattle continues to shuffle its cornerback room ahead of final roster decisions, while the Chargers trading Smith reflects their deep pool at the position.

Packers acquire TE Redman from Rams

The Green Bay Packers acquired tight end Mark Redman from the Los Angeles Rams to bolster depth at the position ahead of the 53-man roster deadline, with Redman aiming to carve out a role behind starters in Green Bay. The trade comes amid the Rams’ crowded tight end room, where Redman’s limited NFL experience and preseason showing highlight a developmental move for both teams.

Chargers Release Jefferson, Cut Kennard

The Los Angeles Chargers continued their frequent roster moves by cutting veteran safety Tony Jefferson, signaling ongoing flexibility with his guaranteed contract and potential return on the practice squad or as a free agent after a productive 2025 campaign. In the same wave of adjustments, they released second-year edge rusher Kyle Kennard and traded cornerback Avery Smith, reflecting a day of broader reshuffling around the roster.

Titans reportedly waive Will Levis

Will Levis has been waived by the Tennessee Titans as they shift to Cam Ward, with Mitch Trubisky backing him up. Levis had requested a release to seek a fresh start and missed the 2025 season due to shoulder surgery, leaving him to explore potential suitors as a free agent or waiver claim.

Dolphins Acquire McCord; Ewers Swap

Green Bay traded Kyle McCord to Miami for a 2028 sixth-round pick after his standout preseason performance, providing Miami with a developing backup behind Malik Willis. The Packers now face a roster decision on keeping three quarterbacks, weighing McCord’s strong showing against Tyrod Taylor’s status and the Dolphins’ familiar Packers connections.

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Steelers Release Veteran Lowry, Roberts Ahead of Roster

The Pittsburgh Steelers began trimming to the 53-man roster by releasing veteran defensive lineman Dean Lowry and veteran inside linebacker Elandon Roberts, signaling ongoing reshuffles at both the D-line and linebacker positions. Roberts could return to the team via the practice squad or backdoor moves, but the cuts mark a notable shakeup ahead of the roster deadline.

Panthers plan final preseason game vs Texans

Carolina Panthers enter their final preseason game against the Texans with updates on top storylines and injuries, while the Convene Podcast explores how educators use art to teach amid geopolitical and travel challenges affecting global meetings. The Weekend Stream reviews new music releases from U2, Peter Gabriel, and OK Go, alongside a spotlight on boxing history with Paddy Doherty and a look ahead to Katie Taylor’s Croker bout, as well as ongoing Sound Off discussions on Central Coast issues.

Steelers Trade Jones to Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys acquired former first‑round offensive tackle Broderick Jones from the Pittsburgh Steelers in a trade that sends Pittsburgh a third- and sixth-round pick in exchange for a fourth-round pick, adding depth on the line as rosters finalize. Jones, who started 38 games for the Steelers and overcame a neck injury in 2025, reunites with George Pickens in Dallas as the Steelers' 2026 draft plans brought in Max Iheanachor to replace him.

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Jaguars Acquire Quinn Ewers from Dolphins

The Miami Dolphins traded quarterback Quinn Ewers to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for a swap of Day 3 picks in the 2028 draft, finalizing a deal that follows Ewers’ limited rookie season and an injury scenario that affected his camp. Ewers, a 2025 seventh-rounder who started three games, will join the Jaguars to compete for the backup role behind Trevor Lawrence as Miami shifts its depth chart to Cam Miller or Mark Gronowski.

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Dobbs Elevates Lions’ Backup QB Race

Josh Dobbs outplayed Luke Altmyer in Detroit’s 25-16 preseason win over the Colts, throwing two touchdowns and directing a flawless two-minute drill to bolster his case as Jared Goff’s backup. Altmyer struggled with turnovers and limited production, leaving his bid to back up Goff unsettled while the Colts featured rookie Anthony Richardson and quarterback Riley Leonard in mixed results.

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Panthers report signing veteran LB Bobby Okereke

The Panthers have agreed to terms with veteran inside linebacker Bobby Okereke, adding him to a competition-for-starting-role alongside Devin Lloyd while providing immediate starting experience after a lengthy stint with the Giants and Colts. Okereke’s move comes with varying reported terms (one-year per ESPN) and a track record of 805 tackles across seven seasons, with potential to step into a Week 1 role if Lloyd cannot play.

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Patriots Acquire Kiner, Trim Roster Toward 53

The New England Patriots are trimming toward a 53-man roster for the 2026 season, including a trade to acquire running back Corey Kiner and ongoing waiver and cut considerations to solidify depth behind starters. Multiple reports outline the cutdown process, potential surprise releases, and a detailed tracker of moves as the team navigates league rules and the deadline.

Patriots Acquire Corey Kiner for Depth

The New England Patriots acquired running back Corey Kiner from the Arizona Cardinals for a 2028 seventh-round pick, adding him as a potential third option behind Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson as rosters are trimmed. Kiner, a 24-year-old with college production from LSU and Cincinnati, has NFL experience but will compete for carries and special-teams roles in New England.

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Steelers Plan Evaluating Drew Allar for 2027 Starter

Rookie quarterback Drew Allar showed tantalizing upside and arm talent during the Steelers’ 2026 preseason, but his performances were uneven and he’s projected to sit as QB3 while he develops for next year. Ben Roethlisberger and analysts praised his potential, with optimism tempered by a late preseason loss to Buffalo and ongoing questions about how the Steelers will navigate the quarterback position around mentorship from veterans and Will Howard.

Buccaneers Defeated 19-0 by Jaguars in Preseason Finale

Jalon Daniels helped the Buccaneers post come-from-behind wins in his first two preseason appearances and entered the mix for the No.3 quarterback role behind Baker Mayfield. In the finale against Jacksonville, he struggled—finishing 8 of 15 for 57 yards with a fumble and no points—dampening his bid as Tampa Bay’s backup over Browning and Bazelak.

Ravens Rout Commanders to cap preseason; Pinter out

The Baltimore Ravens crushed the Washington Commanders 41-3 to close the preseason, showcasing dominant defense, a productive offense with three quarterbacks contributing, and strong performances from Huntley, Fagnano, and Wester. While the defense stifled Washington and Baltimore finished undefeated in the preseason, kicker Tyler Loop had a shaky night and the team is weighing roster decisions, including whether Fagnano or another quarterback will remain on the 53-man squad.

Najee Harris Set for Giants Debut as Tre' Harris Sits Out Chargers Preseason Finale

Najee Harris is slated to make his New York Giants debut Friday night versus the Jets, his first game action in 11 months after tearing his Achilles with the Chargers. Giants coaches expect him to contribute as a downhill, physical back in a crowded backfield as he works back to form.

Steelers reportedly keep four quarterbacks on roster

The Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to keep four quarterbacks—Aaron Rodgers, Mason Rudolph, Will Howard, and Drew Allar—for the 2026 season, with coach Mike McCarthy endorsing the depth and two young QBs’ futures. While Howard’s head-injury evaluation could threaten the plan, preseason performances and multiple insiders indicate four QBs on the 53-man roster is the likely outcome.

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Bills Win Preseason Finale vs Steelers

The Buffalo Bills defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 28-27 in the preseason finale as teams prepare to trim to 53 players, with Bills’ backups led by Kyle Allen’s successor and Shane Buechele forging a late-winning drive and Ian Wheeler adding a late scoring run. Notable standouts for Buffalo included Frank Gore Jr. and Skyler Bell, while Pittsburgh highlighted Drew Allar and Kaden Wetjen, who delivered a punt-return TD but also saw late struggles as the Steelers faced tough cut decisions.

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Four NFL Preseason Games Open Final Week

The final week of the NFL preseason features four games Thursday night, including the Bills at Steelers, Browns at Patriots, and Chargers at Rams, as teams evaluate rosters ahead of the regular season. Previews highlight depth-chart decisions, Steelers practice-squad battles, broadcast plans for Week 2 and international matchups, plus promotional bets and college-game previews tied to the broader lead‑up to the season.