Carolina trimmed 18 players to reach the initial 53-man roster, with most cuts headed to waivers and a path to the Panthers’ practice squad if unclaimed. Carolina still needs 19 more spots by Tuesday’s 4 p.m. ET deadline as it finalizes depth, while one vested veteran, Matthew Wright, was released. The list features Plummer, Perkins, Bailey, Lynch-Adams, Hudson, George, Luther, Dafney, Losoya, Kandra, Weaver, Windmon, Broughton, Dotson, Swilling, Henderson, Gifford, and Wright.

Kaleb Johnson absorbed a brutal kickoff hit from Jacoby Windmon in the Steelers' preseason win over the Panthers, then returned to contribute in several drives, showing resilience and roster depth. Pittsburgh rode a shutout in the second half to a 19-10 victory, underscored by a standout group that impressed across offense, defense, and special teams.

Windmon's bone-jarring tackle became a memorable moment, but Johnson’s willingness to stay in and push through the punishment highlighted the Steelers’ depth and special-teams emphasis as rosters tighten. The finale underscored pent-up competition for roles on kick coverage, return duties, and situational packages, leaving fantasy managers eyeing who emerges in the final weeks of camp.

The Cleveland Browns find themselves in an interesting position as they contemplate their quarterback situation. With Deshaun Watson leading the charge, the competition is fierce among backup quarterbacks, including Dorian Thompson-Robinson and Joshua Dobbs. The concern arises from the lack of proven performance beyond Watson, sparking discussions about whether the Browns are over-invested in this position. With multiple quarterbacks in the mix, the pressure to deliver results is palpable, especially considering the franchise's history of struggles.

As the season approaches, the team's strategy regarding their quarterback depth will be scrutinized. The Browns can't afford to be complacent, especially with the fierce competition in the AFC North. The question remains: will they lean heavily on Watson or give the younger quarterbacks a chance to shine should the need arise?

The waiver wire for Week 17 presents several intriguing options for fantasy football managers, particularly in light of injuries across various teams.

Jaylon Carlies of the Indianapolis Colts emerges as a top target if E.J. Speed remains sidelined. The Buffalo Bills also face defensive challenges, creating opportunities for players in linebacker and safety positions.

Other notable mentions include Owen Pappoe from the Arizona Cardinals and Jacoby Windmon of the Carolina Panthers, both of whom could see increased playing time due to injuries on their respective teams.

Jacoby Windmon, a former linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers, made an unwanted mark in NFL history during Week 16 as the first player penalized for using a hip drop tackle this season. This tackle style had gone uncalled throughout the year, despite multiple fines issued to players.

Windmon, who began his journey as an undrafted free agent and spent time on the Steelers' practice squad, made his first NFL start with the Carolina Panthers, accumulating 11 tackles this season. Despite the penalty, his rookie year has been notable, and he may attract interest from Pittsburgh again in the future.