The NFL’s 53-man roster deadline is creating a brutal final test for players across the league, with teams forced to trim their 90-man rosters to just 53 players before Sunday’s deadline. Hundreds of players will be released, traded or pushed toward practice squads as front offices make difficult decisions about veterans, rookies and potential trade assets.
With the preseason winding down, several recognizable names have emerged as potential roster casualties. Some have struggled to make an impression in camp, while others have been pushed down crowded depth charts by younger players or offseason additions. For teams, the final cuts are not simply about talent salary, positional depth, special-teams value and long-term upside all factor into the equation.
Among the notable situations, the Buffalo Bills could make changes at several positions. Michael Danna faces a difficult battle in a crowded edge-rusher group, while Mecole Hardman’s shaky preseason and competition for the returner role could put his roster spot in jeopardy. Safety Geno Stone has also struggled to separate himself from the competition.
The Chicago Bears could move on from Roschon Johnson after the running back failed to establish himself as a reliable option behind D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai. His limited role last season and lack of standout versatility make his place on the final roster uncertain.
In Cincinnati, the Bengals face a difficult numbers game along the defensive line. McKinnley Jackson and Kris Jenkins, both recent Day 2 selections, are competing for limited spots. Jackson appears to be the more vulnerable of the two after struggling to make the same impact as Jenkins.
The Cleveland Browns may also have a difficult decision involving wide receiver Cedric Tillman. The arrival of young receivers KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston, combined with Tylan Wallace’s signing and Tillman’s injury absence, has pushed him down the depth chart and potentially toward the exit.
Dallas has one of the more intriguing quarterback battles. Sam Howell could be squeezed out after Joe Milton III’s strong showing, with Dak Prescott firmly established as the starter. The Cowboys also face an edge-rusher decision following the addition of Von Miller, potentially putting Sam Williams’ roster spot at risk.
Several teams could also become trade destinations for players who don’t fit their current depth charts. Kansas City cornerback Kristian Fulton could attract interest from clubs searching for secondary help, while Las Vegas quarterback Aidan O’Connell could be an appealing option for teams looking for an experienced backup.
The Minnesota Vikings present another fascinating situation involving J.J. McCarthy. Although an outright release would be surprising, a strong trade offer could force Minnesota to consider moving the former first-round pick if the coaching staff believes Carson Wentz is a safer backup option.
Elsewhere, the New York Giants face questions about veteran wide receiver Odell Beckham and running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. Beckham has shown flashes in camp but has not done enough to clearly secure a roster spot, while Tracy’s struggles and the arrival of Najee Harris have created additional pressure.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have several difficult decisions of their own. Malik Harrison appears vulnerable after the signing of Elandon Roberts, while running back Kaleb Johnson has struggled to earn meaningful opportunities. Offensive tackle Broderick Jones is perhaps the most intriguing case after a difficult preseason, though his positional value could save him.
Philadelphia could explore a move involving veteran quarterback Andy Dalton after Tanner McKee’s impressive preseason performances. Meanwhile, San Francisco’s crowded receiving corps could leave Christian Kirk on the outside looking in as injuries and the emergence of younger players reshape the depth chart.
Ultimately, the final days before the 53-man deadline could bring a flurry of surprises. Veterans who once appeared secure may suddenly become trade candidates, while younger players can force their way onto rosters with strong late-preseason performances. For many players, one final opportunity could determine whether they begin the 2026 season on an NFL roster or searching for their next chance.
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