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 Pittsburgh Steelers are just 31 days away from their season opener against the New York Jets, and as part of their countdown, they are highlighting the history of the No. 31 jersey. Currently, the number is worn by rookie cornerback Beanie Bishop, who made an impressive debut last season with four interceptions in just six starts. His journey from undrafted free agent to a key player on the roster showcases his determination and skill, making him a player to watch in the upcoming season. His performance will be crucial as the Steelers aim to build on last year's successes.

The Backyard Brawl, a historic and fierce rivalry between the Pittsburgh Panthers and the West Virginia Mountaineers, reignited recently after a hiatus since 2011. Following a four-game series from 2022 to 2025, the two schools have announced another four-match series scheduled from 2029 to 2032, with Pitt leading the all-time series 63-41-3. Recently, Beanie Bishop, a cornerback for the Pittsburgh Steelers and former Mountaineer, stirred controversy by posting a video of him wiping his cleats on Pitt's logo, further heating the rivalry. Bishop stated he embraces the animosity, emphasizing that it's part of the game and the culture surrounding such rivalries.

Beanie Bishop Jr. has become a standout player for the Pittsburgh Steelers, gaining significant recognition for his two interceptions of Aaron Rodgers during a key game against the New York Jets in Week 7 of the 2024 NFL season. His remarkable defensive skills not only helped secure a victory but also led him to meet Rodgers post-game, where he had both intercepted footballs signed. Bishop's performance has increased his stock for fantasy football players and sports bettors alike, highlighting his potential as a defensive asset moving forward.

The slot cornerback position for the Pittsburgh Steelers is set to be a hotly contested battle in the upcoming training camp, as Coach Mike Tomlin emphasizes the importance of competition. Beanie Bishop Jr., who had a breakout 2024 season, will need to 're-earn' his starting spot, highlighting the unpredictable nature of roster decisions. Newly acquired cornerback Brandin Echols is expected to challenge Bishop, raising questions about how Tomlin will utilize his depth this season. Bishop's previous performance was overshadowed by veteran Cameron Sutton, who struggled upon his return from suspension, prompting speculation about whether Echols might push Bishop into a backup role again.