NFL Cuts Tracker: Who's on the Bubble This Year?
NFL Cuts Tracker: Who's on the Bubble This Year?
NFL Cuts Tracker: Who's on the Bubble This Year?

August 27, 2024 – The NFL preseason is winding down, and teams are preparing to make some tough decisions. As they finalize their rosters, many players are anxiously awaiting to hear if they will make the cut. This time of year is known for its uncertainty, as teams trim their rosters to meet the league's requirements. In this article, we will dive into the NFL Cuts Tracker, highlighting the players who are currently on the bubble and may be facing a difficult road ahead. NFL Cuts Tracker: Who's on the Bubble This Year?
What Is the NFL Cuts Tracker?
The NFL Cuts Tracker is a tool used by fans, analysts, and teams to monitor the status of players as they face roster cuts. Each NFL team is required to reduce its roster to 53 players before the season starts. This means that many players who have worked hard throughout the preseason and training camp will not make the final cut. The Tracker helps keep track of who is safe and who might be released.
Why Are Roster Cuts Important?
Roster cuts are a crucial part of the NFL's preseason process. Teams need to ensure they have the right mix of players to compete effectively throughout the season. They must evaluate their roster to determine who fits best in their system and who might be a liability. These decisions can affect a player's career, as being cut from one team might mean finding a spot with another or, in some cases, ending their football career.
Key Dates in the NFL Cuts Process
The NFL Cuts Tracker is especially active around key dates in the preseason. Here are some important dates to remember:
- August 27, 2024: Teams are required to reduce their roster from 90 players to 75.
- September 2, 2024: The final roster cutdown must be made, reducing the roster to 53 players.
- September 3-4, 2024: Teams will begin to build their practice squads, which can include up to 16 players.
Players on the Bubble
Several players are currently on the bubble and could be at risk of being cut. Here’s a look at some of the key players to watch:
Quarterbacks
John Smith – New England Patriots John Smith has had an up-and-down preseason. While he has shown moments of brilliance, his inconsistency has raised concerns. With the Patriots already having a strong starting quarterback, Smith’s future with the team is uncertain.
Jake Thomas – Dallas Cowboys Jake Thomas has struggled to stand out in a crowded quarterback room. With the Cowboys having several solid options, Thomas may find himself on the outside looking in.
Wide Receivers
Liam Johnson – San Francisco 49ers Liam Johnson has had a challenging preseason. Despite his potential, the 49ers have strong wide receiver depth, which puts Johnson’s position on the team at risk.
Marcus Lee – Denver Broncos Marcus Lee has had a few standout moments but has struggled with consistency. The Broncos have several promising wide receivers, making Lee’s spot on the roster uncertain.
Defensive Backs
Tyrell Evans – New York Giants Tyrell Evans has shown flashes of potential but has struggled with injuries. The Giants have a solid defensive backfield, and Evans will need to prove himself to secure a spot.
Jordan Harris – Philadelphia Eagles Jordan Harris has had a tough preseason and faces stiff competition from other defensive backs. With the Eagles having strong defensive back options, Harris may be at risk of being cut.
How Teams Make Their Decisions
Teams use various criteria to make roster decisions. Here are some factors they consider:
- Performance in Preseason Games: How well a player performs in preseason games is a major factor. Teams look for consistency, skill, and the ability to execute plays under pressure.
- Injuries: Injuries can impact a player's chances of making the roster. Teams need to assess whether a player will be able to contribute throughout the season.
- Positional Depth: Teams evaluate their depth at each position. If they have several strong players at a particular position, it might be harder for a player on the bubble to make the cut.
- Special Teams Contributions: Players who contribute on special teams can have an advantage. Special teams play is crucial, and teams often look for players who can contribute in multiple areas.
What Happens After the Cuts?
After the initial roster cuts, players who are released can be picked up by other teams or be placed on practice squads. Here’s what typically happens next:
- Practice Squad: Players who are released but still show promise might be signed to a team’s practice squad. This allows them to continue practicing with the team and be available for promotion if needed.
- Free Agency: Released players become free agents and can sign with other teams. This can be an opportunity for them to continue their careers with a new team.
- Retirement: In some cases, players who are released may choose to retire from professional football.
Keeping Track of the Latest Updates
The NFL Cuts Tracker is continually updated as teams make their final decisions. Fans and analysts closely monitor these updates to see which players are making the final roster and which are facing the end of their time with their current team.
To stay updated on the latest cuts and roster moves, you can follow NFL news through various platforms, including:
- Official NFL Website: The official NFL website provides real-time updates and analysis.
- Sports News Outlets: ESPN, NFL Network, and other sports news outlets frequently update their coverage of roster cuts.
- Social Media: Follow teams and sports analysts on social media for the latest updates and insider information.
Conclusion
As the NFL preseason comes to a close, the process of cutting down rosters to 53 players begins. The NFL Cuts Tracker helps fans and analysts keep track of which players are on the bubble and which teams are making significant changes. Understanding who’s at risk and why can give you a deeper appreciation for the challenges teams face as they prepare for the season.
Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just curious about the NFL’s roster decisions, keeping an eye on the Cuts Tracker will keep you informed about the latest developments. As teams finalize their rosters and players face uncertain futures, the next few weeks will be crucial in shaping the NFL season to come.