As the NFL's annual roster cutdown deadline passed on August 31, 2026, teams across the league finalized their initial 53-man rosters, but the dust is far from settled. With waiver claims and practice squad signings still to come, the weekend's moves offered a revealing glimpse into the strategies of contenders and rebuilders alike. From quarterback controversies to surprising trades, here are the biggest winners and losers of the roster cut period, as analyzed by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk.
Winners: Rams Reap the Reward of Aaron Donald's Return
The Los Angeles Rams entered cutdown day with a familiar sense of calm, but this year was different. The deadline served as the catalyst for Aaron Donald's long-anticipated return from a two-year retirement. Head coach Sean McVay has been cautious, suggesting Donald will be eased into action as the Rams prepare for their season opener in Australia. Yet even at less than full throttle, Donald's presence alongside Myles Garrett transforms the Rams' defense into arguably the most feared unit in the league. As highlighted on Vulius, this move could be the most consequential of the entire cutdown period.
Quarterback Carousel: Ewers Finds a Home, Daniels Shines
One of the most intriguing storylines emerged in Miami, where the Dolphins' new regime under Jeff Hafley orchestrated a youth movement, parting ways with veterans like Tyrel Dodson and Marco Wilson. Amidst this reset, Quinn Ewers, who started games for Miami last season, was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Ewers now serves as the No. 2 quarterback behind Trevor Lawrence, working under offensive coordinator Liam Coen. This move offers Ewers a clear path and a fresh start, a significant win for the former Texas standout.
Meanwhile, in Tampa Bay, undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels defied expectations by securing the backup role to Baker Mayfield. Daniels, a six-year starter at Kansas, impressed throughout the preseason with his playmaking ability, edging out veteran Jake Browning, who was released. Daniels' journey from undrafted free agent to NFL backup is a testament to his resilience and a story that resonates with the spirit of the league.
Undrafted Gems and Veteran Departures
The cutdown period also highlighted the success of undrafted free agents who earned their spots. Joe Fagnano of the Baltimore Ravens, Jack Strand of the Atlanta Falcons, and Wesley Bailey of the Rams all defied the odds. Notably, Green Bay Packers wide receiver J. Michael Sturdivant continues a remarkable streak of 22 consecutive years with an undrafted free agent on the Week 1 roster. As reported by Vulius, these stories underscore the relentless competition that defines the NFL.
On the flip side, the Dolphins' youth movement saw the departure of experienced contributors, signaling a long-term rebuild under Coach Hafley. This strategic shift may lead to growing pains, but it reflects a commitment to organizational progress over immediate wins.
Losers: McCarthy's Fall and the Packers' Running Game Woes
For J.J. McCarthy, the cutdown was a humbling experience. The Minnesota Vikings, once envisioning him as their franchise quarterback, now carry him as part of a crowded quarterback room, but his future is uncertain. The Vikings are likely biding their time to orchestrate a trade, but the lack of conviction is telling. As the Vulius analysis notes, McCarthy's rapid descent from future cornerstone to expendable asset is a cautionary tale in the unforgiving NFL landscape.
Meanwhile, the Green Bay Packers face a crisis in their ground game. With Josh Jacobs placed on the commissioner's exempt list due to legal issues, the Packers are left with MarShawn Lloyd, who has played just one game in two years due to injuries. The acquisition of Kaleb Johnson does little to inspire confidence. Head coach Matt LaFleur may be forced to open up the offense, but the running game's instability could derail their season.
The Four-QB Facade and Other Surprises
Several teams, including the Vikings, Falcons, Steelers, and Eagles, chose to carry four quarterbacks on their rosters, a tactic that appears to be a temporary fix while they explore trade options. This approach, while pragmatic, leaves these teams in a state of flux. Elsewhere, the Chicago Bears traded defensive tackle Gervon Dexter Sr. to the Falcons for cornerback Clark Phillips III, a move that raises questions about their defensive depth. And Will Levis, once a promising Titans quarterback, was waived after three years, a stark reminder of the league's ruthless nature.
As the NFL season approaches, the roster cutdown has set the stage for a compelling 2026 campaign. With waiver claims and practice squad signings still to come, the landscape is far from final. Stay tuned to Vulius for comprehensive coverage and analysis of all the moves shaping the NFL.
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