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Chiefs: Elijah Mitchell just didn’t have an extraordinary camp or preseason. A year ago, the Chiefs signed Samaje Perine to be their third-down back. General manager Brett Veach coudl make a similar move next week. — Nate Taylor
Next game: vs. Los angeles Chargers (8 PM, Sept 5)
Cowboys: After less than stellar showings in the first two preseason games, Joe Milton III was much steadier against the Falcons with a touchdown pass and a TD rush. He was much better with his decision-making, finishing with 132 yards on 10-of-18 passing. The final receiver spot comes down to Ryan Flournoy and Jalen Brooks, who both had their moments. Brooks had a 29-yard diving TD catch, while Flournoy showed some strength in his receptions. Then there’s defensive tackle Mazi Smith.The former first-round pick played the entire first half. He recorded a tackle for loss and three tackles. Perhaps it secures him one of the last defensive line spots as Earnest Brown IV deals with a leg injury. — Todd Archer
Next game: at Philadelphia Eagles (8:20 PM Sept. 4)
Falcons: Falcons coach Raheem Morris said this week that the final preseason game would mainly be for players still on the 53-man roster bubble. Wide receivers Chris Blair and Nick Nash and also tight end Feipe Franks all played well.
Wich Bills linebacker, Dodson or Williams, has the edge based on special teams contributions?
Table of Contents
NFL Preseason 2025: Week 3 rosters Analyzed with 53-Man Roster Projections and Insights
AFC East – Burning Questions & Projected Cuts
The final week of NFL preseason action is in the books, and teams are now facing the toughest decisions: trimming rosters down to the mandated 53 players. Let’s dive into the AFC East, analyzing key battles and projecting who makes the cut.
Buffalo Bills: The Bills’ QB situation behind Josh Allen is a key storyline. Nathan Peterman and Matt Barkley are competing for the backup role. Expect barkley to win out due to his experience. On defense, the linebacker depth is notable, meaning a tough choice between Tyrel Dodson and Dorian Williams.Dodson’s special teams contributions likely secure his spot.
Projected Cuts: WR Khalil Shakir (potential practice squad), LB Tyrel Dodson (if Williams shines), DB Damar Hamlin (tough decision, health dependent).
Key Battles: Backup QB, Linebacker Depth, Safety Competition.
Relevant Keywords: Bills roster cuts, Josh Allen backup, NFL roster projections, AFC East news.
Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins have a loaded roster,making cuts especially challenging. The biggest question mark is at running back. Will they keep four? De’Von Achane’s performance this preseason has been impressive, possibly pushing Myles Gaskin off the roster. The cornerback position is also crowded.
Projected cuts: RB Myles Gaskin, CB Noah Igbinoghene, TE Tanner Conner.
Key Battles: running Back Depth, Cornerback Competition, Special Teams Roles.
Relevant Keywords: Dolphins 53-man roster, miami Dolphins cuts, NFL preseason analysis, running back battles.
new England patriots: The Patriots’ offensive line is a concern. Several rookies are vying for spots, and thier performance in Week 3 was crucial.The tight end position is also up for grabs. Hunter Henry and Mike Gesicki are locks, but the third spot is a battle between Tyquan Thornton and Jacob Hollister.
Projected Cuts: OL Jake Andrews, TE Jacob Hollister, WR Kayshon Boutte.
Key Battles: Offensive Line Stability, Tight End Depth, Wide Receiver Competition.
Relevant Keywords: Patriots roster analysis, new England Patriots cuts, NFL offensive line, tight end battles.
New York Jets: All eyes are on the Jets and their revamped offense. The biggest question is the backup quarterback position.Zach Wilson is the starter, but who steps up behind him? The defensive line depth is also a strength, leading to difficult choices.
Projected Cuts: QB Chris Streveler, DL Jonathan Bullard, WR Irvin Charles.
Key Battles: Backup Quarterback, Defensive Line Depth, Special Teams Specialists.
Relevant Keywords: Jets roster projections, New York Jets cuts, NFL quarterback competition, defensive line depth.
NFC West – Surprise Performances & Roster Locks
The NFC West presents a different set of challenges. Several teams are rebuilding, offering opportunities for undrafted free agents to make an impact.
Arizona Cardinals: With kyler Murray still recovering, the Cardinals are evaluating their backup QB situation. David Blough and Jarrett Stidham are competing. Stidham’s experience gives him the edge.The Cardinals also have several promising rookie defenders.
Projected Cuts: QB David blough, RB Keontay Ingram, CB Marco Wilson.
key Battles: Backup Quarterback, Rookie Defender Evaluation, Wide Receiver Depth.
Relevant Keywords: Cardinals roster cuts, Kyler Murray recovery, NFL rookie watch, NFC West news.
Los Angeles Rams: The Rams are in a transition period. They’re looking for young players to build around. The offensive line needs improvement, and several rookies are competing for starting roles. The linebacker position is also a focus.
Projected Cuts: OLB Daniel Hardy, RB Zach Evans, WR Puka nacua (potential practice squad).
Key Battles: Offensive Line Development,Linebacker Competition,Wide Receiver Depth.
Relevant Keywords: Rams roster analysis, Los Angeles Rams cuts, NFL offensive line, linebacker battles.
San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers are Super Bowl contenders. Their roster is largely set, but there are still battles for depth. The running back position is crowded with Christian McCaffrey as the clear starter. The safety position is also competitive.
Projected Cuts: RB Jordan Mason, S tayler Hawkins, OL Sam Schlueter.
Key Battles: Running Back Depth, Safety Competition, special Teams Roles.
Relevant Keywords: 49ers roster projections, San Francisco 49ers cuts, NFL running back depth*,
