Story perspectives

NFL sets Aug. 30 roster cuts to 53 players

8/28/2026

Summary

NFL Cuts Rules

The NFL classifies released veterans and waived rookies using a four-accrued-season threshold.
Teams may place two players on IR-to-return on cut-down day, eligible after four games.
Veteran contracts become fully guaranteed if the player remains on the Week 1 roster.
Reserve/PUP players can start a 21-day practice period after the second regular-season game.
Approximately 1,184 players are cut from 53-man rosters, and injured players may be waived with an injury designation.

Summary

Vikings Trim Roster

NFL teams must cut rosters to 53 players by 6 p.m. ET on Aug. 30.
Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy may be released after a poor preseason and ankle sprain.
Vikings RB Demond Claiborne risks cut despite 2.6 yards per carry in camp.
Giants OT Evan Neal, 2022’s 7th overall pick, remains on the roster bubble.
Giants WR Odell Beckham Jr. is a depth option and likely released before Week 1.

History

Historical Context

When the NFL adopted a hard salary cap for the 1994 season, Commissioner Paul Tagliabue set the limit at $34.6 million and required teams to cut rosters to 53 players by late August. The Cowboys saved $12 million by releasing Ken Norton Jr., creating a precedent that today’s Vikings, Giants and others follow in shaping contracts and practice-squad rules.

1 of 3

NFL Cuts Rules

The NFL classifies released veterans and waived rookies using a four-accrued-season threshold.
Teams may place two players on IR-to-return on cut-down day, eligible after four games.
Veteran contracts become fully guaranteed if the player remains on the Week 1 roster.
Reserve/PUP players can start a 21-day practice period after the second regular-season game.
Approximately 1,184 players are cut from 53-man rosters, and injured players may be waived with an injury designation.

1 / 3