The NFL's annual ritual of roster trimming has concluded, seeing each team reduce their offseason rosters from 90 players down to the mandated 53. This essential process in roster building sets the stage for the league's preparations for Week 1, marking the official start of the new season. For many players, it was a time of disappointment, not making the cut despite their efforts.
Quarterback Movements
One of the notable quarterback trades involved the Arizona Cardinals acquiring Ridder in exchange for wide receiver Rondale Moore. Ridder, who started 13 games for the Atlanta Falcons last season and recorded a 6-7 win-loss record, was brought in to compete for the backup quarterback position behind Kyler Murray. However, he ultimately lost out to Clayton Tune. Ridder's move was a significant attempt by the Cardinals to solidify their depth chart under center.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams addressed their quarterback depth by signing Jimmy Garoppolo during the offseason to serve as the backup to their starter, Matthew Stafford. With Garoppolo set to miss the first two games due to a suspension, rookie quarterback Stetson Bennett will step in to handle backup duties during Garoppolo's absence.
Other teams also saw movements in their quarterback rosters. Zappe, a fourth-round pick by the New England Patriots in 2022, started eight games last season, including the final six of the 2023 campaign, finishing with a balanced 4-4 record. On the other hand, Easton Stick struggled, going 0-4 in his four starts last season, although he managed to maintain an 85.6 passer rating.
Wide Receiver Transfers
The Kansas City Chiefs bolstered their wide receiver corps by trading for Toney in October 2022. Toney's addition proved fruitful, as he now boasts two Super Bowl rings. In a similar vein, the Philadelphia Eagles strengthened their roster by acquiring wide receiver Jahan Dotson from the Washington Commanders.
Another wideout who stood out was Brown, who achieved back-to-back seasons with at least 550 receiving yards. Brown had a remarkably productive 2023 season with standout performances, including a Week 9 game where he caught all six targets for 153 yards and a touchdown, followed by a seven-catch, 172-yard game in the subsequent week.
In addition, Perine had a productive season, pulling in 50 of his 56 targets for 455 yards. Marshall, selected in the second round of the 2021 draft by the Carolina Panthers, also made an impact with 28 receptions for 490 yards and a touchdown in 2022. The Raiders continue to rely on Tom Telesco as their general manager, hoping to build on previous successes.
Injuries and Recoveries
The season also saw its share of setbacks due to injuries. Farley, who had to overcome two ACL tears during his collegiate career, missed the entire 2023 season due to a back injury. Minnesota Vikings’ first-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Lewis Cine, had his rookie season cut short by a compound fracture in his left leg, managing to play in just seven games last season.
Team Additions
The Tennessee Titans bolstered their secondary by adding L'Jarius Sneed and Chidobe Awuzie during the offseason. In the same vein, the Chargers keenly assessed their talent pool, with Spiller, a fourth-round draft pick in 2022, proving his worth by playing in 15 games, rushing 55 times for 137 yards, and catching all nine of his targets for 47 yards.
As we edge closer to Week 1 of the regular season, all eyes will be on the evolving dynamics of each team's roster. The paring down process, heart-wrenching as it can be for many, remains crucial in shaping competitive and cohesive teams capable of making a strong push throughout the NFL season.