NFL Roster Cuts 2025: 11 Shocking Releases

Notable NFL Roster Cuts of the 2025–2026 Season

As teams across the NFL scramble to finalize their 53-man rosters ahead of the regular season, we’ve witnessed several shocking and headline-worthy moves that have sent ripples throughout the league. From surprising veteran releases to promising rookies hitting the waiver wire, this year’s roster cuts have been particularly eventful.

Here are the most noteworthy cuts that every NFL fan should know about:

The Shock Releases

**Shilo Sanders – Safety, Tampa Bay Buccaneers**

In perhaps the most dramatic cut of the preseason, Shilo Sanders—son of NFL legend and current Colorado head coach Deion Sanders—was waived by Tampa Bay following an ejection for punching an opponent during a preseason game. The Buccaneers organization called the incident “inexcusable,” though they haven’t completely closed the door on a potential practice squad return. Despite the family pedigree and preseason buzz, Sanders’ temper may have cost him his NFL opportunity.

**Mike Hilton – Cornerback, Miami Dolphins**

One of the more surprising cuts came from Miami, where veteran nickel cornerback Mike Hilton was unexpectedly released despite being considered a lock for the roster. Hilton’s release leaves the Dolphins notably thinner in their secondary, raising questions about their depth at the position heading into the season.

Quarterback Carousel Continues

The quarterback position saw significant movement across multiple teams as organizations settled on their final depth charts:

**Tyler “Snoop” Huntley – Cleveland Browns**

Cleveland’s crowded quarterback room ultimately claimed another victim as Tyler Huntley was among 17 players released by the Browns. The move helps narrow their QB competition down to a more manageable four players as they finalize their depth chart.

**Dorian Thompson-Robinson – Philadelphia Eagles**

After the Eagles made their trade for Sam Howell, writing was on the wall for DTR. The former UCLA quarterback was waived in the final cuts, unable to secure his spot in Philadelphia’s revamped quarterback room.

**Hendon Hooker – Detroit Lions**

Once considered a favorite to land the backup quarterback role in Detroit, Hooker was ultimately waived as veteran Kyle Allen secured the job behind Jared Goff. The move represents a shift toward experience over potential for the Lions’ QB depth.

**Bailey Zappe – Kansas City Chiefs**

The Chiefs released Zappe after he competed for a backup role, clearing the way for Gardner Minshew to serve as Patrick Mahomes’ primary backup. Kansas City’s championship aspirations clearly influenced their decision to go with the more experienced option.

Veteran Casualties

**Michael Gallup – Wide Receiver, Washington Commanders**

The veteran pass-catcher’s brief return from retirement was short-lived, as Gallup was released after failing to secure a spot in Washington’s deep wide receiver room. His release reflects the competitive nature of today’s NFL, where past production doesn’t guarantee roster security.

**Cam Akers – Running Back, New Orleans Saints**

Former standout running back Cam Akers was cut by New Orleans, opening up more opportunities for emerging talent Kendre Miller to work alongside star Alvin Kamara. The move signals the Saints’ confidence in their younger backfield options.

Detroit’s Aggressive Roster Management

The Lions made waves with several surprising cuts, showing they’re not afraid to make tough decisions:

**Dan Skipper – Offensive Tackle**

In one of the more shocking moves, Detroit released fan favorite and longtime backup tackle Dan Skipper. The decision suggests either strong confidence in players like Giovanni Manu or a strategic plan to potentially bring Skipper back via the practice squad.

**Defensive Back Purge**

Detroit also waived several promising defensive backs, including Erick Hallett and rookie Ian Kennelly, along with Jackson Meeks, Anthony Pittman, and Brodric Martin. This aggressive roster cleanup demonstrates the Lions’ commitment to their vision, regardless of popular opinion.

Looking Ahead

**Kenyon Green – Guard, Philadelphia Eagles**

The former first-round pick’s journey continues to disappoint, as Green was waived by Philadelphia after struggling to secure a starting guard position. Injuries and competition have derailed what many hoped would be a promising career for the young lineman.