The final week before the NFL's 2024 season kickoff is always a whirlwind of activity, as teams rush to trim their rosters and solidify their lineups. This year proved no different, with a series of significant trades, waivers, and roster cuts that have reshaped multiple squads in the league.
Dallas Cowboys and Kansas City Chiefs Make a Move
One of the most notable transactions involved the Dallas Cowboys and the Kansas City Chiefs. The Cowboys sent tight end Peyton Hendershot to the Chiefs in exchange for a conditional late-round draft pick. Hendershot, who has shown promise during his short stint with Dallas, is expected to compete for a backup role behind the talented Travis Kelce. This move adds depth to the Chiefs' tight end position and could provide them with a solid backup option.
Arizona Cardinals' Active Trade Week
The Arizona Cardinals were particularly active this week. They traded linebacker Cameron Thomas to the Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for a seventh-round pick. Thomas, who was selected in the third round of the 2022 draft, will now look to make an impact on the Chiefs' defensive unit.
Additionally, the Cardinals traded another linebacker, Ernest Jones, to the Tennessee Titans. Alongside Jones, the Rams included a 2026 sixth-round pick in exchange for a 2025 fifth-round pick. Jones has been an influential figure on the Cardinals' defense, serving as a starting inside linebacker and team captain. His leadership and on-field presence will surely be missed in Arizona, but he is expected to bring those qualities to Tennessee.
Tennessee Titans Shuffle Quarterbacks
The Tennessee Titans also made headlines by trading quarterback Malik Willis to the Green Bay Packers. As part of the deal, the Titans sent a seventh-round pick along with Willis. Upon arrival in Green Bay, Willis is set to serve as the backup to Jordan Love. This move led to the Packers releasing fellow 2022 draft pick Sean Clifford, signaling a shift in their quarterback strategy.
Seattle Seahawks and Defensive Rebuilding
The Seattle Seahawks bolstered their defensive line by acquiring Trevis Gipson from the Jacksonville Jaguars. In exchange, the Jaguars received a 2025 sixth-round pick. Gipson's arrival comes at a critical time, with edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu currently sidelined due to a sprained MCL. Gipson's versatility and ability to pressure the quarterback will be crucial for Seattle's defensive front.
Browns Add Depth to Bears' Line
The Cleveland Browns made a noteworthy move by trading defensive lineman Chris Williams to the Chicago Bears. The trade package included a seventh-round pick and garnered Cleveland a sixth-round pick in return. Williams, who spent last season on the Browns' practice squad, will now have an opportunity to prove himself on a Chicago team looking to strengthen its defensive line.
Jets and Bills Swap Specialists
In a less publicized but still important trade, the New York Jets sent defensive back and return specialist Brandon Codrington to the Buffalo Bills. In exchange, the Jets received a swap of late-round picks in 2026. Codrington's versatility in both the secondary and special teams roles should provide added value to the Bills as they aim for special teams improvement.
As the dust settles from these roster moves, teams will now focus on preparing for the upcoming season. With myriad adjustments and new faces in different jerseys, the 2024 NFL season promises to be as dynamic and unpredictable as ever. Each team has aimed to improve, vying to start their campaign on the strongest possible foot. Only time will tell who made the best moves to position themselves for success in the highly competitive landscape of professional football.