Overview

• The 4 p.m. ET deadline triggered leaguewide reductions from 90 to 53 players, with roughly 1,100 to 1,200 releases reported.
• Waived players with fewer than four accrued seasons are subject to claims in draft-order priority led by the Titans, after which clubs can assemble 16-man practice squads that may include up to six veterans.
• Quarterback moves headlined the day, with the Browns trading Kenny Pickett to the Raiders, Cleveland releasing Tyler Huntley, the Vikings sending Sam Howell to the Eagles and signing Carson Wentz, and the Buccaneers choosing Teddy Bridgewater over Kyle Trask.
• Notable cuts across positions included La'el Collins (Cowboys), Hendon Hooker (Lions), Mike Hilton and Ryan Stonehouse (Dolphins), Donovan Peoples-Jones and Cam Akers (Saints), and Shilo Sanders (Buccaneers).
• Vested veterans became free agents immediately, younger players entered waivers, and coaches such as Sean McVay stressed clear, empathetic communication with players during the process.