The NFL’s 53-man cut deadline is looming, and a slate of notable players across multiple teams could be on the chopping block. Among the most consequential are Ja’Lynn Polk, Javon Baker and Kendrick Bourne from New England, headlined by Polk as a second-year option whose path to the active roster is not guaranteed despite draft investments. Kyle Dugger and Anfernee Jennings also stand in the Patriots’ crosshairs, tied to cost and schematic fit as New England reshapes under a new voice.

Washington’s Brian Robinson Jr. faces questions about a changing backfield, while Kansas City’s Skyy Moore and Baltimore’s David Ojabo appear on the radar as teams balance talent with cap and role clarity. The Jets’ Malachi Corley and the Saints’ Isaiah Foskey are listed as potential cuts that could redraw depth charts, with Beanie Bishop Jr. and DeMarvin Leal representing Pittsburgh’s cost/fit calculus on defense.

Outside the Patriots, those moves echo across the league: veteran certainty versus cost and scheme fit, undrafted rookies stepping up, and the ripple effects on Week 1 roles. The piece underscores that even bigger names can be vulnerable when coaches recalibrate rosters to maximize versatility, speed, and special-teams value in August rhythms.

For fantasy managers, the takeaway is clear: late-August roster churn can create or erase sleeper windows. Depth charts can flip quickly at WR, LB and edge spots as teams finalize rosters, so stay nimble on waiver wires and be ready to pivot as cuts and claims unfold.

The Buffalo Bills returned to outdoor practice on Thursday, braving low 30s temperatures. Defensive players Rasul Douglas, Taylor Rapp, Damar Hamlin, Matt Milano, Dorian Williams, and Baylon Spector were limited due to various injuries, with Douglas optimistic about playing against the Patriots.

On offense, only Curtis Samuel was limited. Notably, quarterback Josh Allen was cleared from the injury report after a recent scare. Dion Dawkins participated despite a personal incident. Meanwhile, the struggling New England Patriots faced multiple injury issues, including Christian Barmore's placement on injured reserve due to blood clots.

Drake Maye showcased his potential as the New England Patriots' future quarterback, completing 19 of 23 passes for 202 yards and a touchdown in a loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Despite his strong performance, the Patriots struggled in critical short-yardage situations, failing to convert twice from inside the 5-yard line.

Coach Jerod Mayo's comments sparked speculation about play-calling decisions, although he later clarified his support for the offensive strategy. The Patriots' red zone efficiency remains a concern, ranking 29th in the NFL.

In a crucial matchup, the Arizona Cardinals triumphed over the New England Patriots with a score of 30-17, keeping their playoff hopes alive. James Conner was a standout, rushing for 110 yards and scoring twice. Jonah Williams made his mark by recovering a fumble for his first NFL touchdown.

The Cardinals' defense played a significant role, overcoming early injuries to key players. Despite a late push from the Patriots, they could not close the gap.