As the 2025 NFL preseason wraps up, the league’s annual roster cutdown has once again sent shockwaves through teams and fans alike. Each of the 32 franchises was tasked with trimming its offseason roster from 90 players to just 53, resulting in a staggering 1,184 players either being released or placed on injured reserve. With such significant turnover, the waiver wire is flooded with talent, offering opportunities for teams to bolster their squads while leaving others scrambling to find new homes.
This dramatic roster shake-up not only reveals the strategic directions teams are taking but also spotlights notable veterans and promising talents who’ve unexpectedly found themselves on the outside looking in.
The Roster Cut Essentials: From 90 to 53
The move from expanded offseason rosters to the regular-season limit is a high-stakes process fueled by competition, salary cap considerations, and shifting team needs. Once the cuts are announced, teams have until Wednesday at noon ET to sign players onto their new practice squads, granting up to 16 spots per team and 512 jobs across the league.
However, with about 30 players claimed off waivers each year, the ripple effect can lead to cascade releases, keeping the waiver wire active well into the start of the season.
Top Names Released: Surprising Cuts and Potential Rebounds
Several recognizable names and former high draft picks were left off rosters this year, signaling changing valuation and deeper positional battles.
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Audric Estime (RB, Denver Broncos): The 22-year-old fifth-round pick from Notre Dame showed flashes as a rookie with 310 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Denver, favoring rookie RJ Harvey and veteran J.K. Dobbins, opted to cut Estime, but his youth and cost-effectiveness make him a prime candidate for waiver claims as a complementary back.
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Robert Woods (WR, Pittsburgh Steelers): Once a dependable veteran receiver, Woods’ production has waned over the years, culminating in no roster spot for the Steelers despite a bargain one-year contract. Teams looking for experienced wideouts could view Woods as a savvy addition.
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Tommy DeVito (QB, New York Giants): Remembered for his 2023 upset win over Washington, DeVito’s inconsistent play and the Giants’ quarterback depth chart pushed him off the roster. His future likely lies in a backup or practice squad position elsewhere.
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Kenyon Green (G, Philadelphia Eagles): A 2022 first-round pick traded to Philadelphia, Green started games last season but couldn’t secure a roster spot this year. His affordable rookie contract might attract teams seeking interior offensive line depth.
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Clelin Ferrell (DE, Washington Commanders): Drafted fourth overall in 2019, Ferrell had bouts of resurgence prior to this cut, including solid starting stints with the 49ers and Commanders. His veteran experience might be appealing for teams needing pass-rush depth.
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Hunter Renfrow (WR, Carolina Panthers): The inspiring comeback attempt by Renfrow after battling ulcerative colitis was cut short as the Panthers preferred younger receivers. Despite reduced production since his Pro Bowl peak, his savvy route-running could earn him a future roster spot.
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Malachi Corley (WR, New York Jets): A high third-round pick who underperformed significantly, Corley’s release reflects a quick shift in team plans. His collegiate scoring prowess might tempt a rebuilding team willing to develop him further.
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Shy Tuttle (DT, Carolina Panthers): Even after agreeing to a major pay cut, veteran Tuttle was released amid Carolina’s youth movement. His consistent performance over recent years may attract contenders needing defensive reinforcements.
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Dustin Hopkins (K, Cleveland Browns): Once a reliable kicker, Hopkins’ sharp decline last season led the Browns to cut ties and move on to Andre Szmyt. A return to form elsewhere would be necessary for Hopkins to stick.
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Isaiah Simmons (LB, Green Bay Packers): The versatile linebacker’s diminished production in recent years and depth on Green Bay’s defense left him without a roster spot. His affordable contract could entice teams seeking hybrid defenders.
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Mike Hilton (DB, Miami Dolphins): Hilton’s release surprises given Miami’s secondary needs, but factoring cap space and future planning, the experienced defensive back will likely catch on quickly elsewhere.
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K.J. Osborn (WR, Washington Commanders): After modest production splitting time last season, Osborn might reunite with former employers like the Minnesota Vikings, who need receiving help in early 2025 due to a key suspension.
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Greg Dulcich (TE, New York Giants): Despite leading the NFL preseason in touchdown receptions and a solid rookie year, Dulcich was waived in New York. His receiving skills could find a role as a secondary tight end on another team.
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Marquez Valdes-Scantling (WR, Seattle Seahawks): MVS’s reputation as a deep threat has waned, and a crowded Seattle receiving corps left him out. His playoff experience and speed offer a possible rejuvenation opportunity elsewhere.
What Lies Ahead on the Waiver Wire?
This class of waiver claims features a blend of former star prospects, solid veterans, and players striving for a second chance. Teams facing injuries or depth concerns will be scouring the waiver claims list to scoop up affordable and experienced options. Historically, roughly 30 players per year successfully catch on with new teams after initial cuts, making the waiver period an active battleground for roster improvement.
The 2025 roster cutdown highlights the NFL’s ongoing cycle of evaluation and opportunity: one player’s cut opens the door for another’s rise. Fans and analysts will be watching closely over coming weeks as these players battle for spots on practice squads and active rosters.
Final Thoughts
The NFL’s 2025 roster cuts underscore the ruthless nature of professional football, where even productive veterans and promising youngsters aren’t guaranteed a spot as teams refine strategies and adapt to salary constraints. For many, the waiver wire represents not just a setback but a fresh chance to prove their value.
As teams assemble their final rosters and build practice squads, the upcoming weeks after these major cuts will reveal which of these big names find new homes — and which ones face uncertain futures.
With the 2025 regular season on the horizon, the waiver claims are set to shape team depth charts, rotation strategies, and potentially, playoff runs. Stay tuned as some of these released stars look to reignite their careers in new jerseys.
