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NFL Roster Cuts Move to Sunday in 2026
29 May
Summary
- NFL rosters must be 53 players by Sunday, Aug. 30, 2026.
- This is an earlier deadline than the traditional Tuesday cut.
- Waiver claims are due Monday, Aug. 31, 2026, by Noon CT.
In 2026, the National Football League will implement a new roster cutdown deadline. Teams must reduce their rosters to 53 players by Sunday, August 30, at 5 p.m. CT. This represents a notable shift from the established practice of cutting rosters on the Tuesday following the final preseason weekend.
The league also specified that waiver claims must be submitted by Monday, August 31, 2026, at Noon CT. While teams can still carry a full 90-player roster during training camp, the earlier cutdown date requires strategic adjustments.
This change will affect teams like the Saints, who must finalize their initial 53-man roster two days after their last preseason game. Their preseason schedule includes games on August 15, August 22, and August 28, requiring crucial decisions shortly after the final contest.
The NFL's regular season is scheduled to commence on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, with the Saints beginning their campaign against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, September 13.
