Most people view being cut by an NFL team as a death sentence for the player. However, there are plenty of examples where being eliminated from one roster has turned out to be a great thing for another. One case is Raheem Mostert, who went undrafted in 2015 before being cut by six different teams. He ultimately ended up with the San Francisco 49ers, and the rest is history. All NFL teams are making cuts ahead of today’s mandatory roster reduction, and several changes stand out. All of the changes will play a part in how the NFL standings now shift.  

Newton No Longer with the Pats

Quarterback Cam Newton lasted only a little more than a year with the New England Patriots. His release, announced today, came as a shock to most, but head coach Bill Belichick sees a lot more potential in Mac Jones. Newton hasn’t had a good few years and, while he may still have some football left in him, his possibilities as a starter are likely gone.

The Buffalo Bills have released wide receiver Duke Williams. He has been a part of the team for the past three seasons after being signed in early January 2019. He had 12 catches for 166 yards with a touchdown in four appearances later that year and had an important role in the team’s playoff action, but hasn’t kept up.

The Bills have also released tight end Jacob Hollister. He was just signed this past March, which makes his exit a little surprising. Hollister has been productive in the preseason, with four catches for 53 yards, but the Bills needed some room and someone had to go. Hollister shouldn’t have any trouble finding a new home.

Washington Makes Some Adjustments

Cornerback Jimmy Moreland won’t be suiting up for the Washington Football Team this season. The slot CB and former James Madison standout allowed just one touchdown in his coverage area in the NFL and has played over 1,000 snaps in the last two seasons. He’s an aggressive player with a lot to offer any team that wants him.

Washington has let go of wide receiver Antonio Gandy-Golden, as well. He was just picked up in the fourth round of the NFL Draft in 2020, but hasn’t been given many chances since entering the league. He spent more time on the field during this preseason, picking up seven catches for 77 yards. Towering over many other players, he has a shot at being a special teams addition for several teams.

Lions Part Ways With Crosby

Good offensive tackles are easy to find, great ones, not so much. Tyrell Crosby was in this category, but the Detroit Lions have decided that it’s time to move on. It could be because the Lions are dealing with a new office that doesn’t understand him. With over 1,100 regular-season snaps in his NFL career, at both right and left tackle, the Lions will soon realize what they’re missing.

Derwin Gray could be considered one of the good, but not great, offensive tackles. He has only had nine regular-season snaps in his pro career, but seemed to be turning up the pressure during the preseason as he tried to make a name for himself with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Unfortunately, he didn’t succeed.

Another offensive tackle in the great category is Carson Green, but the Houston Texans didn’t see it. The Texans are trying to rebuild their team and are looking for younger players, instead of banking on experience. This could cost them this season, but Green should find a new target quickly.

More Players Receive Their Walking Papers

There are plenty of other players who are now looking for new homes, and more will be announced today and tomorrow. The Arizona Cardinals will no longer have wide receiver KeeSean Johnson on their squad, running back Javian Hawkins has been released by the Tennessee Titans and running back Elijah Holyfield was let go by the Philadelphia Eagles. The cut to 53 continues, with plenty of movement coming.