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NFL Roster Moves: 49ers Elevate Apple, Chiefs Shuffle QBs, and More Week 16 Updates Across the League
With the playoff picture tightening and injuries piling up, Week 16 brought a flurry of roster moves across the NFL. From quarterback shuffles to key defensive activations, teams are making late-season adjustments that could have real implications down the stretch. Here's a breakdown of the latest transactions and what they mean heading into the final weeks of the regular season.
San Francisco 49ers
The Niners are bolstering depth ahead of a critical stretch, elevating cornerback Eli Apple and defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos to the active roster. Apple brings veteran experience to a secondary that’s been tested by injuries, while Gross-Matos adds rotational value up front as San Francisco looks to keep its pass rush fresh heading into the postseason.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Running back Josh Williams is back in the fold after having his suspension lifted.
While he’s not expected to be a featured piece, his return adds another option to a Bucs backfield that’s leaned heavily on Rachaad White. Depth matters this time of year, and Williams could be a factor in short-yardage or special teams situations.
Arizona Cardinals
Arizona signed quarterback Jeff Driskel to the active roster, giving them another veteran presence behind center. With Kyler Murray back in action but still working his way into full rhythm, Driskel provides insurance and flexibility in case of injury or late-game scenarios.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers placed linebacker Denzel Perryman on the suspended list, a notable hit to their defensive depth.
Perryman’s physicality and veteran leadership have been key for a unit that’s struggled with consistency. His absence will be felt, especially in run defense.
Kansas City Chiefs
It’s been a busy week in the Chiefs’ quarterback room.
Kansas City signed Shane Buechele to the active roster while placing Gardner Minshew on injured reserve. With Minshew sidelined, Buechele steps in as the backup behind Patrick Mahomes.
He knows the system well and gives the Chiefs a familiar face in the QB2 spot.
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts made several moves, starting with waiving quarterback Brett Rypien.
On the positive side, they activated defensive lineman DeForest Buckner from injured reserve-a major boost for their defensive front. Buckner's presence is a game-changer, especially as Indy pushes for a playoff spot.
They also elevated wide receiver Coleman Owen and guard Josh Sills to the active roster, reinforcing depth on both sides of the ball.
Washington Commanders
Washington was active on the waiver wire, claiming wide receiver Jamal Agnew and defensive tackle Shy Tuttle.
Agnew adds dynamic return ability and speed to the offense, while Tuttle helps shore up the defensive interior. On the flip side, the Commanders placed guard Samuel Cosmi, defensive tackle Eddie Goldman, and wide receiver Jaylin Lane on injured reserve-three tough losses for a team trying to stabilize.
Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons added defensive back Tysheem Johnson to the practice squad. It’s a developmental move, but one that could pay off if injuries hit the secondary or if Johnson flashes in practice.
New York Giants
The Giants released punter Cameron Johnston from the practice squad. It’s a minor move, but one that signals confidence in their current special teams setup heading into the final stretch.
Green Bay Packers
Green Bay activated outside linebacker Collin Oliver from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
It’s a welcome return for a defense that’s looking to generate more pressure off the edge. In a corresponding move, the Packers placed tight end John Fitzpatrick on injured reserve, thinning out their already banged-up tight end group.
New England Patriots
No official moves reported, but with the season winding down and the focus shifting toward 2026, keep an eye on developmental players getting more reps.
Tennessee Titans
No transactions reported this cycle.
As we head into the final two weeks of the regular season, these roster tweaks-big and small-could end up shaping playoff races, seeding, and even offseason decisions. Whether it’s a veteran stepping into a bigger role or a young player getting their shot, every move counts in December.