As we head into another pivotal NFL weekend, teams across the league are making roster moves that could have real implications on depth, game-day strategy, and injury management. Here's a closer look at the latest transactions from around the league, with some key elevations, activations, and signings that fans should keep an eye on.
Chicago Bears
The Bears elevated linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin from the practice squad, a move that adds experience and versatility to their special teams and linebacker rotation. In a corresponding move, they released linebacker Carl Jones from the practice squad. On the offensive line, Chicago signed guard Jordan McFadden to the active roster, reinforcing the trenches as the season grinds on.
Buffalo Bills
The Bills continue to shuffle their front seven, elevating defensive tackle Morgan Fox and linebacker Baylon Spector from the practice squad. Fox brings interior pass rush, while Spector adds depth at linebacker and special teams value.
Denver Broncos
Denver elevated linebacker Jordan Turner from the practice squad, likely to bolster a defense that’s been dealing with injuries. They also released linebacker Garret Wallow, and signed veteran tight end Marcedes Lewis to the active roster - a move that brings leadership and blocking prowess to the offense.
Cleveland Browns
The Browns elevated defensive end K.J. Henry from the practice squad, adding fresh legs to a defensive line that’s been one of the most physical units in the league this season.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa Bay elevated cornerback Marcus Banks from the practice squad, possibly to address secondary depth. With the season entering its stretch run, every healthy body in the defensive backfield counts.
Arizona Cardinals
Arizona made several moves, elevating wide receivers Jalen Brooks and Trent Sherfield from the practice squad. They also placed receiver Greg Dortch on injured reserve, opening the door for more reps for the newcomers. Additionally, linebacker Channing Tindall was signed to the active roster, giving the defense another young piece to work with.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs elevated guard C.J. Hanson from the practice squad, likely as insurance for the offensive line. Defensive back Christian Roland-Wallace was placed on injured reserve, and in response, Kansas City signed veteran DB Mike Edwards to the active roster - a familiar face who can step in and contribute immediately.
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts activated linebacker Jaylon Carlies from injured reserve, giving them another option at a position that’s seen its share of attrition. They also elevated kicker Blake Grupe and defensive tackle Chris Wormley from the practice squad, adding depth on both special teams and the defensive front.
Washington Commanders
Washington activated wide receiver Noah Brown from injured reserve, potentially adding a spark to the offense. Defensive end DeMarcus Walker was elevated from the practice squad, while wideout Chris Moore was released from the same unit.
Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins elevated offensive tackle Kion Smith from the practice squad, a move that adds depth and insurance in the trenches as Miami continues to push for playoff positioning.
Atlanta Falcons
Atlanta elevated cornerback C.J. Henderson from the practice squad and placed defensive back DeMarcco Hellams on injured reserve. They also signed wide receiver Deven Thompkins to the active roster, giving the offense another speed option as they look to stay in the NFC South race.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars activated defensive back Eric Murray from injured reserve and elevated DB Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig and wide receiver Austin Trammell from the practice squad. Running back Cody Schrader was released from the practice squad, as Jacksonville continues to tweak its depth chart.
New York Jets
The Jets elevated defensive backs Tre Brown and Nik Needham from the practice squad - a move likely in response to injuries in the secondary. They placed cornerback Jarvis Brownlee and linebacker Marcelino McCrary-Ball on injured reserve, and signed DB Jordan Clark and quarterback Brady Cook to the active roster. Cook’s addition could be a developmental play or a depth move with an eye on the future.
Green Bay Packers
Green Bay activated wide receiver Jayden Reed from injured reserve, which could be a big boost for their passing game. They also released wide receiver Malik Heath from the practice squad.
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders elevated wide receivers Shedrick Jackson and D.J. Turner from the practice squad, possibly looking to add speed and depth to the receiving corps in the final stretch of the season.
Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore elevated defensive back Sanoussi Kane and nose tackle Josh Tupou from the practice squad, reinforcing a defense that thrives on rotation and depth.
New Orleans Saints
The Saints elevated wide receiver Kevin Austin and kicker Charlie Smyth from the practice squad. Smyth’s elevation could be an indication of injury concerns or a strategic special teams move.
Seattle Seahawks
Seattle activated defensive back Julian Love and nose tackle Jarran Reed from injured reserve, two key pieces returning to a defense that’s hungry for consistency. Wide receiver Velus Jones was elevated from the practice squad, potentially giving the return game a jolt.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers elevated tackle Dylan Cook and wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling from the practice squad. Valdes-Scantling brings veteran experience and a deep-threat element that could help stretch opposing defenses.
Houston Texans
Houston elevated defensive back Alijah Huzzie and defensive tackle Haggai Chisom Ndubuisi from the practice squad. They also placed DB Jaylen Reed on injured reserve and signed DB Jalen Mills to the active roster, adding a proven veteran to a young secondary.
Minnesota Vikings
[No transactions listed.]
As we approach the final weeks of the regular season, these roster tweaks - whether it's a familiar vet getting another shot or a young player getting his first taste of the big stage - can make all the difference. Depth wins games in December, and these moves are all about preparation, preservation, and positioning for the playoff push.