The final week before the kickoff of the 2024 NFL season is always a time of significant changes and high expectations. Teams across the league make essential roster adjustments, reducing their squads from up to 90 players to the mandated 53. This year is no exception, and Tuesday was marked by a series of important trades, waivers, and releases that have the potential to reshape several teams.
Hendershot Joins the Chiefs
Among the notable moves, 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 potential in his early career, is expected to compete for a backup role behind future Hall of Famer Travis Kelce. The Chiefs' decision to acquire Hendershot underscores their commitment to strengthening their tight end depth, an area critical to their offensive strategy.
Cardinals Strengthen the Chiefs' Roster
The Arizona Cardinals were active in the trade market as well. They traded linebacker Cameron Thomas to the Kansas City Chiefs for a seventh-round pick. Thomas, a third-round pick from the 2022 draft, brings a fresh perspective and depth to the Chiefs' linebacker corps. His move to Kansas City is likely aimed at bolstering their defensive lineup as they look to maintain their dominant form in the upcoming season.
Additionally, the Cardinals also traded linebacker Ernest Jones to the Tennessee Titans. The trade involved the Rams including a 2026 sixth-round pick in exchange for a 2025 fifth-round pick. Ernest Jones has been a pivotal figure for the Cardinals, serving not just as a starting inside linebacker but also as a team captain. His leadership and on-field performance will be assets that the Titans will hope to capitalize on as they prepare for the season.
Malik Willis Moves to Green Bay
Quarterback Malik Willis has also found a new home, moving from the Tennessee Titans to the Green Bay Packers. The deal included a seventh-round pick going to the Packers. Willis is set to assume the role of backup quarterback to Jordan Love. This move was followed by the Packers releasing fellow 2022 draft pick Sean Clifford, highlighting their consideration of Willis as a potentially strategic fit.
Jaguars and Seahawks Swap Talent
The Jacksonville Jaguars struck a deal with the Seattle Seahawks, trading defensive lineman Trevis Gipson for a 2025 sixth-round pick. Gipson is expected to provide much-needed support to the Seahawks' defensive line, particularly in the absence of edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu, who is sidelined due to a sprained MCL.
Browns and Bears Transaction
Further adding to the day's activities, the Cleveland Browns traded defensive lineman Chris Williams to the Chicago Bears. In this deal, Chris Williams, along with a seventh-round pick, was exchanged for a sixth-round pick. Williams, who spent last season on the practice squad, will look to make a significant impact on the Bears' roster.
Seahawks and Jets Engage in Trades
The Seahawks continued their trading spree by sending Darrell Taylor to the Chicago Bears for a 2025 sixth-round pick. Meanwhile, the New York Jets traded defensive back and return specialist Brandon Codrington to the Buffalo Bills. In exchange, the Jets received a swap of late-round picks in 2026, anticipating that Codrington's special teams' prowess will serve as an asset for the Bills.
As the countdown to the 2024 NFL season continues, these trades and roster moves increase the excitement and speculation among fans and analysts alike. Each team's strategy in these final days could very well set the tone for their performance throughout the season. It remains to be seen how these adjustments will play out on the field, but one thing is clear - every move is made with the championship in mind.