League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Injuries

NFL teams finalize rosters ahead of cut deadline this weekend

NBCSports.com • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 29, 2026, 10:46 AM

Last updated Aug 29, 2026

NFL teams finalize rosters ahead of cut deadline this weekend

Summary

By Sunday at 4:00 p.m. ET, NFL teams must trim their rosters from 90 players down to 53. This process, commonly referred to as 'The Turk', signals the end of preseason and affects numerous players fighting for limited spots. Following the cuts, players who are not 'vested veterans' enter the waivers system, while those with four or more years of service become free agents. The restructuring continues as teams prepare for the upcoming regular season, with additional roster moves expected as the weeks progress.

Source Links

NBCSports.com Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Teams cut rosters from 90 to 53 players by Sunday at 4:00 p.m. ET.
•Players released with four or more years of service become free agents.
•The waivers system gives priority based on the 2026 draft order.
•The cut process reflects the high competition for roster spots.
•Roster changes will continue into the regular season.

Latest Updates

10:47 AMNBCSports.com — The annual frenzy of NFL transactions happens this weekend - NBC Sports
10:46 AMYahoo Sports — The annual frenzy of NFL transactions happens this weekend

What they're saying