NFL Roster Cuts Deadline Moved Up for 2026 Season

The NFL has adjusted its cutdown day for the 2026 season, moving the deadline to 6 p.m. ET Sunday to facilitate the logistics of the Week 1 game between the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams in Australia.

This year's roster trimming process will see teams reduce their rosters to 53 players, with various designations such as injured reserve and physically unable to perform list being utilized. Players with four or more accrued NFL seasons will be outright released, while those with less experience will be waived and subject to the waiver wire.

Teams have until 1 p.m. ET Monday to submit claims for waived players, with the Las Vegas Raiders holding the top position in the waiver claim order. Last year, 29 players were claimed off waivers on cutdown day, highlighting the activity surrounding this roster management period.