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NFL Waivers Processed, Teams Rush to Fill Expanded Practice Squads

Monday’s claims window and clearing of many waived players is forcing clubs to protect prospects and stitch together immediate depth for Week 1.

Overview

  • Teams trimmed rosters to 53 players on Sunday and submitted waiver claims during Monday’s afternoon window that the NFL then published.
  • Many waived players cleared waivers on Monday and became free agents, prompting a rapid round of practice‑squad signings and the start of 16‑player squad builds with some clubs planning a 17th IPP slot.
  • Green Bay moved quickly to sign multiple players to its practice squad, the Ravens projected a full 17‑player group using the International Player Pathway exemption, and San Francisco used veteran releases and expected IR moves to free roster spots for re‑signings.
  • Practice‑squad rules let teams carry 16 players plus a possible IPP exemption, elevate two players per game and activate an individual up to three times in a season, which makes the practice squad a key tool for short‑term depth and player development.
  • The cutdown cascade is creating roster churn that lets clubs protect draft and development investments, alters Week 1 availability, and raises the chance that several younger players will get early game opportunities if injuries occur.