Patriots, Cowboys Finalize Practice Squads After Initial 53-Man Rosters

The New England Patriots and Dallas Cowboys have both finalized their initial 53-man rosters for the 2025 NFL season, but roster moves are far from over as teams prepare to build practice squads and make additional claims through the waiver wire. NFL teams can start signing players to their practice squads on August 27, carrying up to 16 players, or 17 if utilizing the International Player Pathway program, with the ability to elevate two practice squad players to the active roster on game days. The Patriots, holding the fourth-best waiver position, are expected to make multiple claims to improve depth in positions like tight end, linebacker, edge rusher, and offensive line, while notable cuts include starting tackle Demontrey Jacobs and kicker John Parker Romo, signaling confidence in rookies like Marcus Bryant and Andres Borregales. The Cowboys continue to manage their roster with similar strategies, designating players to injured reserve to open spots and adjusting their practice squad accordingly. Both teams are navigating the challenges of balancing veteran players and rookies, with the Patriots seeing only one player from their 2022 draft class remain after cuts, while integrating nine players from their 2025 draft class. These ongoing roster adjustments highlight the dynamic nature of NFL roster management leading up to the season opener.