The 13 NFL players who were cut but could make an impact on a new team

The NFL is currently in the process of managing roster transitions following the mandated cutdown day for the 2026 season. According to coverage from The New York Times, there are 13 specific players who were released from their teams but are viewed as having the potential to make a significant impact if signed by a new organization. This phase of the season requires teams to trim their rosters to the official 53-man limit, leading to a surge of available talent entering the waiver wire system. The process involves a specific order of claims that determines which teams have priority access to these released players. Detailed reporting from multiple outlets is focusing on the logistics of these claims. Yahoo Sports reports that the Las Vegas Raiders currently lead the waiver wire order following the 2026 cutdown day.

Meanwhile, CBS Sports is maintaining a comprehensive tracker to document every team's claims as they happen in real-time. Specific team-based analysis is also emerging, with Saints Wire identifying six players from the New Orleans Saints who are likely candidates to be claimed by other teams on waivers, while the Washington Commanders are analyzing their specific placement within the priority order to determine their chances of acquiring new talent. This movement is critical because the 53-man roster cut is the final hurdle before the regular season begins. The waiver wire system ensures that players are distributed based on a set order rather than a free-for-all, which provides a mechanism for struggling teams to potentially bolster their depth with experienced players. The emphasis on the '13 players' mentioned by The New York Times suggests that while many are cut, only a small percentage are viewed as immediate starters or high-value contributors for another franchise. This creates a strategic environment where front offices must act quickly to secure assets.

Moving forward, the focus will remain on the final settlements of the waiver wire tracker provided by CBS Sports. Observers will be watching to see if the Raiders leverage their top position in the order to acquire any of the 13 high-impact players highlighted in the news. Additionally, the status of the six Saints players identified by Saints Wire will indicate how other teams value the New Orleans depth chart. The Washington Commanders will continue to evaluate their position in the order to see if any desired players clear waivers or are available for claim.