Blink and you might have missed some of the big names that were released yesterday as NFL trimmed their rosters to 53 players.
Here are the five biggest names cut.
1. Josh Sitton OG Green Bay Packers: Admittedly, even I was surprised that the Packers released the 30 year old Sitton. The three time Pro Bowler was a staple of the Packers offensive line the last few years. Despite that, he was due to make $5.9 million this season and was a free agent after the season. Green Bay tried to trade Sitton but had no takers so they let him go. Sitton will have suitors on the open market because he’s still playing at high level. Don’t be surprised if the Bears signed Sitton. They’ve already met with him.
2. Justin Forsett, RB Baltimore Ravens: I can’t say I’m surprised the Ravens released Forsett. He was the oldest running back on the roster and battled injuries last season. Forsett had two years remaining on his deal at $3 million per season. That was too rich for a Ravens team that has depth at running back and looking to shed salaries. Rookie Kenneth Dixon, Buck Allen, Terrance West and Lorenzo Taliferro will al compete for the starting job moving forward.
3. Dee Millner (CB) and Jace Amaro (TE) New York Jets: The current Jets regime didn’t draft either player, former Jets GM John Idzik did. Both Millner and Amaro struggled with injuries and inconsistency so it’s not a surprised they were released. Amaro was claimed by the Titans. Millner will draw interest because he’s a big corner. Don’t be surprised if Rex Ryan and the Bills show interest.
4. Mark Sanchez, QB Denver Broncos: I thought for sure Sanchez would have either started for the Broncos or backed up Paxton Lynch. I didn’t think he’d get beat out by Trevor Siemian of all people. Sanchez signed with the Cowboys upon his release and he’ll back up Dak Prescott until Tony Romo returns midseason.
5. Ronnie Hillman, RB Denver Broncos: The Broncos re-signed Hillman this off season to form a one, two punch with C.J Anderson but Hillman was beat out by rookie Deonte Booker and veteran Kapri Bibbs. Hillman is a good enough all around back that he should attract some interest in the open market.