2024 NFL Draft Roster Cuts: The Most Surprising Moves
With the NFL cut-down deadline passing, teams across the league have made some unexpected roster moves. While every season sees talented players released due to salary cap constraints, injuries, or coaching decisions, the 2024 roster cuts included some especially surprising names. Here are some of the most shocking moves this year.
1. Denver Broncos Release Tim Patrick and Samaje Perine
One of the biggest surprises was the Denver Broncos cutting wide receiver Tim Patrick and running back Samaje Perine. Patrick, a reliable possession receiver, was expected to have a role in Denver’s offense after missing the past two seasons due to injury. However, the Broncos couldn’t find a trade partner, leading to his release. He quickly landed with the Detroit Lions, showing there was still demand for his services.
Similarly, Perine, known for his pass-catching and blocking ability, was let go after Denver opted to keep undrafted rookie Blake Watson. Perine later signed with the Kansas City Chiefs, adding depth to their backfield【7】.
2. Cleveland Browns Keep Four Quarterbacks, Cut D’Onte Foreman
In a rare roster decision, the Cleveland Browns chose to keep four quarterbacks on their final roster: Deshaun Watson, Jameis Winston, Dorian Thompson-Robinson, and Tyler Huntley. This decision meant they had to release running back D’Onte Foreman, leaving them with only two backs on their roster.
Foreman, who had productive stints with the Panthers and Bears, was expected to provide depth behind Nick Chubb. However, the Browns prioritized extra quarterbacks, likely with trade scenarios in mind【7】.
3. Vikings Waive Former First-Round Pick Lewis Cine
A major shock came from the Minnesota Vikings, who waived safety Lewis Cine, their first-round draft pick from 2022. Cine struggled with injuries and never lived up to expectations, playing in only 10 games with one recorded tackle. Despite his potential, Minnesota decided to move on, marking a quick end to his tenure with the team【7】.
4. Chiefs Move on from Kadarius Toney and Justyn Ross
The Kansas City Chiefs made headlines by cutting two wide receivers, Kadarius Toney and Justyn Ross.
Toney, a former first-round pick by the Giants, was expected to be a key piece of the Chiefs’ offense but struggled with injuries and consistency. Ross, a former Clemson star with high potential, never fully capitalized on his opportunities. With the Chiefs’ focus on retooling their receiving corps, both were let go【8】.
5. Packers Release Kicker Anders Carlson and Quarterbacks Sean Clifford, Michael Pratt
Green Bay made an unexpected move by cutting Anders Carlson, their young kicker who struggled with inconsistency last season. Additionally, they released quarterbacks Sean Clifford and Michael Pratt, leaving Jordan Love as the only QB on the roster until further signings【8】.
6. Ernest Jones Traded for a Bargain Price
The Los Angeles Rams surprised many by trading Ernest Jones, a key linebacker and former team captain, to the Tennessee Titans for just a fifth-round pick. Jones had a standout season with 145 tackles and was seen as a future defensive leader. However, contract negotiations stalled, leading to his departure at a surprisingly low cost【7】.
7. Patriots Release Backup QB Bailey Zappe
The New England Patriots continued their quarterback carousel by cutting Bailey Zappe, who had served as Mac Jones’ backup. Zappe had previously been viewed as a potential competitor for the starting job, making his release a surprising move【8】.
8. Giants Cut Veteran Allen Robinson
Veteran wide receiver Allen Robinson was released by the New York Giants after failing to impress in training camp. Once a Pro Bowl-caliber receiver, Robinson struggled to find consistency in recent seasons. His release highlights the Giants’ focus on a younger receiving corps【8】.
9. Buccaneers Part Ways with Sterling Shepard
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made a noteworthy cut by releasing veteran receiver Sterling Shepard, who had spent his entire career with the Giants before joining Tampa Bay. Shepard has battled injuries in recent seasons, but his experience made him a surprise cut【8】.
10. Washington Commanders Release Martavis Bryant
Veteran wide receiver Martavis Bryant, who was attempting an NFL comeback after a long suspension, was cut by the Washington Commanders. Once a dynamic playmaker for the Steelers, Bryant’s hopes of returning to the league were dashed with this move【8】.
Conclusion
This year’s roster cuts saw teams making tough choices, parting ways with former first-round picks, key veterans, and players expected to contribute. While some of these players have already found new teams, others will look to catch on elsewhere before the season begins. With the NFL’s ever-changing landscape, more surprising moves could sti
ll come as teams finalize their rosters for Week 1.
