As NFL teams prepare to finalize their 53-player rosters this weekend, a significant number of veteran players, including former Pro Bowlers and first-round draft picks, face the possibility of being released. The deadline for these roster reductions is August 27, 2026, a critical period for many players hoping to secure a spot for the upcoming season.
Among the notable names at risk is wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., who at 33 years old and nearly two years removed from his last NFL snap, is attempting a return with the Giants. His path became somewhat clearer after Calvin Austin III sustained a serious knee injury, but Beckham Jr. still faces an uphill battle to make the cut.
Another former first-round pick, Evan Neal, who was the No. 7 overall selection in 2022, is trying to transition from tackle to guard. The Giants declined his rookie contract option, though he re-signed on a veteran minimum deal. A new coaching staff in place means his future with the team is uncertain.
Tight end Darren Waller, 34, joined the Panthers during training camp, but his best season was six years ago, and he faces competition from younger players like Tommy Tremble and Mitchell Evans. Wide receiver Mecole Hardman Jr., despite three Super Bowl titles and an All-Pro rookie selection, has not scored a touchdown since 2022 and played only two games last year from a practice squad elevation.
Sterling Shepard, a wide receiver, recently joined the Texans, but a trade for Kayshon Boutte has put his position at risk. Emmanuel Ogbah, an edge rusher and former No. 32 overall pick, is back with the Chiefs after winning a Super Bowl with them seven years ago, but his spot is not guaranteed despite the team’s need for pocket pressure. Marquez Valdes-Scantling, a journeyman receiver, was picked up by the Cowboys after the draft, but his outlook is bleak given a loaded receiving unit and his recent performance.
Tim Patrick, a wide receiver, is attempting a comeback after missing two seasons due to ACL and Achilles injuries. While he played 32 games over the past two seasons with the Lions and Jaguars, his journey might hit a roadblock in New York. Defensive tackle Mazi Smith, a 2023 first-round pick, is already on his second team, the Jets, after being traded by the Cowboys, and his future in New York’s new-look defense is uncertain.
Quarterback Will Levis, a Day 2 pick in 2023, could be out in Tennessee depending on whether the Titans carry two or three quarterbacks. Cam Ward is the franchise quarterback, and Mitchell Trubisky is the backup, leaving Levis’s spot in question. Laquon Treadwell, a wide receiver and former No. 23 overall pick, is fighting for his tenth NFL season with the Colts, but the arrival of Keenan Allen complicates his chances. Defensive tackle Jerry Tillery, a former first-round pick, is on his fifth team in four years with the Colts, who must decide on their defensive line depth.
Phillip Dorsett, a wide receiver, is trying to make his first regular-season appearance since 2023, likely destined for the Raiders’ practice squad. Running back Ameer Abdullah, known for his special teams and backup roles, appears headed for the Jaguars’ practice squad. Dameon Pierce, a running back who had a surprise rookie season, has seen his workload diminish and is now trying to latch on with the Eagles. Quarterback Cooper Rush faces competition from undrafted free agent Jack Strand with the Falcons. Van Jefferson, a wide receiver who played a key role in the Rams’ 2022 Super Bowl win, is trying to carve out a role with the Commanders. Running back Khalil Herbert, after an ankle injury disrupted his breakout campaign with the Bears, is one of many additions to the 49ers’ backfield and could be a casualty. Trevor Penning, a first-round pick in 2022, was traded to the Chargers and may not be needed as their offensive line is now healthy. Cornerback Noah Igbinoghene, a 2022 first-round pick, is seeking a backup job with Seattle after serving as a starter for the Commanders due to injuries.
