Cowboys Begin roster Cuts, Activate Trevon Diggs as Deadline Looms
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FRISCO, Texas – The Dallas Cowboys, along with all 31 other NFL teams, are navigating the challenging process of trimming their rosters to the mandated 53-man limit.The initial wave of moves began Sunday,signaling the end of preseason evaluations and the start of preparations for the regular season.
Disclaimer: This article discusses roster moves and potential player impacts, but does not constitute financial or investment advice.
Diggs returns to Active roster, Collins Released
A key development for the Cowboys was the activation of All-Pro cornerback Trevon Diggs from the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. diggs began training camp on the PUP list while continuing his recovery from a season-ending anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear sustained in Week 3 of the 2023 season against the Arizona Cardinals. His return to the active roster doesn’t guarantee his availability for the Week 1 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles on September 8th, but it indicates progress in his rehabilitation and secures his roster spot.
To create space for Diggs, the Cowboys released veteran offensive lineman La’el Collins. This marks the second time this offseason the team has parted ways with Collins, having previously attempted to re-sign him during training camp. Collins, originally drafted by the Cowboys in the seventh round of the 2017 NFL Draft, played a critically important role as a starting right tackle before being released in March 2022 due to salary cap constraints. He subsequently signed with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Understanding the Roster Cut Process
The NFL requires teams to reduce their rosters to 53 players by 4:00 PM Eastern time on Saturday, August 31st.This process often involves tough decisions and strategic maneuvering. Teams will utilize waivers, free agency, and the practice squad to finalize their rosters and build depth.
A crucial element of this process is the distinction between vested veterans and non-vested players. Vested veterans,defined as those who have accrued at least four complete NFL seasons,are not subject to waivers and are free to sign with any team immediately upon release.
This allows them greater control over their next destination. Players with less than four accrued seasons are subject to waivers, meaning other teams have the opportunity to claim them before they become free agents.
Initial Cuts Announced
As of Sunday, the Cowboys have begun announcing their initial roster cuts. The following players have been released:
| Player | Position |
|---|---|
| Nick Broeker | Offensive Line |
| Denzel Daxon | Defensive Tackle |
| Josh Kelly | Wide Receiver |
| Tyler Neville | Tight End |
| Troy Pride | Cornerback |
| John Stephens Jr. | Tight End |
Further transactions are expected in the coming days as teams finalize their 53-man rosters and begin assembling their practice squads. The practice squad allows teams to maintain a group of players who can be elevated to the active roster when needed.
