As the 2025 NFL preseason heads into its third week, all 32 teams face one of the toughest parts of the year: trimming their rosters from a maximum of 90 players down to the final 53 allowed for the regular season.
This annual roster cut means that as many as 1,184 players could be released league-wide, leaving many fighting to keep their NFL dreams alive. While the process is grueling, expanded practice squad opportunities provide hope for some. Since 2020, practice squads have grown in size, and teams can now carry up to 17 players — including one international player — giving released athletes another pathway to stay in the league.
Final Roster Cut Deadline
NFL teams must reduce their rosters to 53 players by 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025.
This is the only roster reduction deadline for this year. Previously, the NFL had multiple cut-down dates — including mid-preseason limits at 85 and 80 players — but those were eliminated in 2023. Now, teams can carry the full 90 players through the preseason until the final deadline, allowing coaches more time to evaluate talent.
How Cuts Typically Unfold
Although Aug. 26 is the official deadline, teams vary in how they handle the process. Some clubs announce most of their cuts immediately after their last preseason game, while others gradually release players throughout the week.
Fans should start paying attention once Week 3 preseason games wrap up on Thursday, Aug. 21 — such as the Panthers vs. Steelers and Giants vs. Patriots — as roster moves and trades often begin right afterward.
Practice Squad Signings
Once the deadline passes, NFL teams can begin signing practice squad players starting at Noon ET on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025. This follows the waiver period for released players, allowing teams to build their 17-man squads.
What’s at Stake
For veterans, roster cuts may mean finding a role on another team or moving to a practice squad. For younger players, it could mean the end of their NFL opportunity. Regardless, the cut-down process is an emotional and defining moment for both athletes and franchises — one that shapes the league as it heads into the new season.
