Updated
Updated · CBS Sports · Aug 27
NFL Teams Eye 20 Veteran Cuts as 53-Man Roster Deadline Nears
Updated
Updated · CBS Sports · Aug 27

NFL Teams Eye 20 Veteran Cuts as 53-Man Roster Deadline Nears

3 articles · Updated · CBS Sports · Aug 27

Summary

  • Twenty notable veterans — including Odell Beckham Jr., Will Levis and Darren Waller — are at risk of being released as NFL teams finalize 53-man rosters this weekend.
  • The pressure comes from mandatory cutdowns, with aging former Pro Bowlers, stalled first-round picks and fringe backups all vulnerable if clubs keep younger, cheaper depth.
  • Beckham, 33 and nearly two years removed from his last NFL snap, still faces an uphill fight with the Giants despite a clearer path after Calvin Austin III's serious knee injury.
  • Recent roster moves have tightened the squeeze elsewhere: Houston's trade for Kayshon Boutte jeopardized Sterling Shepard, while Tennessee could drop Levis if it carries only 2 quarterbacks.
  • The list underscores how cutdown weekend can accelerate the end of once-prominent careers, even as some released veterans may still land practice-squad spots or short-term deals elsewhere.

Insights

As the ruthless August 30 cutdown looms, will aging stars like Odell Beckham Jr. survive the roster math or face forced retirement?
Why does a lack of special teams value suddenly threaten the careers of former Pro Bowl receivers fighting for their final NFL lifeline?
Can former top-10 pick Evan Neal salvage his career at guard, or will a new coaching staff end his Giants tenure entirely?