As the calendar flips to August 29, 2026, the NFL landscape is bracing for one of the most frantic weekends of the offseason. By Sunday at 6 p.m. ET, all 32 franchises must trim their rosters from 90 to 53 players, with waiver claims due by Monday at 1 p.m. ET. The decisions made in the coming hours will shape depth charts, special teams units, and practice squads across the league. Reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, here's an in-depth look at the cutdown wave that has already begun, with several notable names hitting the waiver wire.
NFC East: Cowboys and Eagles Make Bold Moves
The Dallas Cowboys have parted ways with wide receiver Traeshon Holden and defensive tackle Kelvin Gilliam, signaling a youth movement at the bottom of the roster. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Eagles cut wide receiver Johnny Wilson—a 2024 sixth-round pick—along with running back Ja'Quinden Jackson and offensive tackle Hollin Pierce. Wilson's departure is notable given his size and potential, but the Eagles' receiver room is deep. The Washington Commanders made a surprising move by releasing kicker Jake Moody, a former third-round pick of the 49ers, along with punter Matt Haack. This opens the door for a kicking competition that could have fantasy and real-world implications.
AFC North: Steelers and Browns Trim Depth
The Pittsburgh Steelers made a flurry of cuts, including cornerbacks Israel Mukuamu and Daryl Porter, plus wide receiver Cornell Powell. The Cleveland Browns were equally active, releasing offensive tackles Tyre Phillips and Jeremiah Byers, along with tight end Jack Stoll and wide receiver Cedric Tillman. Tillman, a third-round pick in 2023, never quite lived up to expectations, and this move signals the Browns' commitment to reshaping their receiving corps. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the Browns are also parting with punter Nik Constantinou, which could lead to a late addition via waivers.
NFC West: 49ers and Rams Shake Up Roster
The San Francisco 49ers cut running back Khalil Herbert, a veteran who had a strong preseason but couldn't crack a crowded backfield. They also released tight ends Tanner McLachlan and Josiah Deguara, as well as defensive end K.J. Henry. The Los Angeles Rams said goodbye to wide receiver Mario Williams and linebacker Daniel Rickert. The Arizona Cardinals made a surprising cut in running back Trey Benson, a 2024 third-round pick who showed flashes but struggled with consistency. As highlighted on Vulius, Benson's release could make him a hot waiver target for teams needing backfield depth.
AFC West: Chiefs and Chargers Make Subtle Adjustments
The Kansas City Chiefs, perennial Super Bowl contenders, released defensive end Anthony Dunn and offensive tackle Kellen Diesch. These are depth moves, but they underscore the Chiefs' confidence in their core. The Las Vegas Raiders cut wide receiver Noah Brown, a veteran who could be re-signed if he clears waivers. The Los Angeles Chargers trimmed wide receiver Luke Grimm, a local product from Kansas who had a strong camp but faced stiff competition. The Denver Broncos parted with wide receiver Hakeem Butler and safety Taylor Rapp, the latter a surprise given his experience.
The Waiver Wire: Who to Watch
With so many players hitting the market, the waiver wire will be a frenzy. Key names include running back Khalil Herbert, wide receiver Cedric Tillman, and kicker Jake Moody. Teams like the New England Patriots, who cut tight end Mitch Van Vooren, and the New York Jets, who released kicker Cade York, could be in the market for replacements. The Vulius NFL Analysis Desk will be tracking all moves as they happen, providing real-time updates and analysis. For fans, this is the time to monitor your fantasy leagues and favorite teams' depth charts.
As the dust settles, the 53-man rosters will reveal not just who made the team, but the strategic vision of each franchise. Some teams are prioritizing youth, others are adding veterans for leadership. The next 48 hours will be a chess match, and the winners will be the teams that navigate the waiver wire with precision. Stay tuned to Vulius for comprehensive coverage, exclusive insights, and expert breakdowns of every move.
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