Mazi Smith, Defensive Tackle (New York Jets)
It’s not often a former first-round pick finds himself on the street so quickly, but that's the reality for Mazi Smith. The Jets acquired Smith from Dallas as part of the Quinnen Williams trade, but the change of scenery didn't spark a career turnaround.
Despite his high draft pedigree, Smith struggled to make an impact and was released before the deadline. While his pro career has been a disappointment, his draft status alone will likely earn him another shot. A team that runs a 3-4 defense and is desperate for a powerful nose tackle could take a low-risk flier on him, hoping a new environment can finally unlock his potential.
Will Levis, Quarterback (Tennessee Titans)
Just a year after being tabbed as a potential quarterback of the future, Will Levis is out in Tennessee. His release is a stark example of how quickly things can change with a new regime. After the Titans drafted quarterback Cam Ward first overall in 2025, Levis's time was clearly running out. In his starts, he showed flashes but ultimately struggled with consistency, posting a 5-16 record. Don't be surprised if a team with an aging starter, like the Falcons or Eagles, brings him in as a high-upside backup to develop. He still has the raw tools that made him a second-round pick, and another coaching staff might believe they can refine them.
Mecole Hardman, Wide Receiver (Buffalo Bills)
The Bills brought in Mecole Hardman to add a veteran speed threat to their receiving corps, but a breakout preseason from rookie Skyler Bell made him expendable. Bell emerged as a younger, higher-upside gadget player, effectively filling the role Buffalo envisioned for Hardman. With several drops in the preseason, Hardman failed to secure his spot on a team looking for reliable pass-catchers. As a vested veteran, he is now a free agent and won't have to go through waivers. A contender looking for a proven return specialist and deep threat, like the Kansas City Chiefs or Baltimore Ravens, could be calling. He has two Super Bowl rings and experience in big games, which always holds value.
Geno Stone, Safety (Buffalo Bills)
Another surprising cut from Buffalo was safety Geno Stone. After a solid career, Stone was expected to be a key veteran presence in the Bills' secondary. However, he struggled during training camp and was reportedly outplayed by Damar Hamlin in the final preseason game, making him a casualty of a competitive safety room. Stone is a reliable tackler and has a nose for the football. Teams that need immediate help in their secondary, or those who suffered an injury at the safety position during the preseason, will likely show interest. He’s the type of steady, experienced player who often finds a new home within days of being released.
Jedrick Wills, Offensive Tackle (Chicago Bears)
Jedrick Wills was a former first-round pick who was looking for a fresh start in Chicago. An injury to a fellow lineman seemed to open a path for him to secure a roster spot, but Wills once again dealt with his own health issues and was ultimately released. His inability to stay on the field has been the story of his career. However, starting-caliber offensive tackles are a rare commodity in the NFL. Even with his injury history, teams with shaky offensive lines will surely be interested. A franchise in a full rebuilding phase might sign him to a one-year, "prove-it" deal, hoping he can finally stay healthy and live up to his draft-day promise.
