Notable NFL Roster Cuts Around the League
By Erik Lambert
Dec 1, 2013; Toronto, ON, Canada; Buffalo Bills defensive end Alan Branch (90) chases Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) out of the pocket during the second half at the Rogers Center. Falcons beat the Bills 34-31. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
Cuts have begun in earnest around the NFL. Who are some notable names that bear watching in the coming days and weeks?
Chicago Bears: Adrian Wilson – SS
The former five-time Pro Bowl safety was already at a disadvantage coming in late to the Chicago Bears roster and recovering from off-season surgery. Throw in the fact he’s 34-years old and not as fast as he used to be, it was going to take a lot for him to make the roster. Still, it is a minor surprise he didn’t make at least the first cut.
Seattle Seahawks: Terrell Thomas – CB
It was pretty much a no-win scenario the moment Terrell Thomas accepted a deal to join the Seattle Seahawks. Not only is he covered in red flags because of his past knee problems, but he was trying to make it on a defense that is loaded at cornerback. The former 2nd round pick has always flashed the talent he showed at USC, but at age 29 he may be out of chances.
Miami Dolphins: Michael Egnew – TE
Coaching changes played a part in why Michael Egnew, a 3rd round pick from 2012 never caught on with the Miami Dolphins. However, bad timing was another. Expected to break through this preseason in an offense that accented his strengths as a pass catcher, Egnew went down with a concussion. Before he could make it back in time, the Dolphins chose to cut their losses. It will be interesting to see if another team takes a chance on his high potential.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Ramses Barden – WR
Another third round pick that can’t seem to get himself off the ground. Ramses Barden looked like the next great wide receiver project for the New York Giants. Unfortunately injuries and inconsistency left them with no choice but to part ways. Now, after brief stints with Buffalo and the Jacksonville Jaguars, the 28-year old is left looking for another new home. At 6’6″ he still has that intriguing size offensive coaches would love, but it’s becoming clear that something is missing.
Buffalo Bills: Alan Branch – DT
Depth along the defensive line contributed to the decision, but most likely it was the recent arrest for DUI that got veteran defensive tackle Alan Branch ousted from the Buffalo Bills roster. While never really a star, the 29-year old has always been a big help to NFL teams in stopping the run. It comes with being 6’6″, 325 lbs. He has at least that going for him since there are always teams who need help against the ground game.