NFL 2018: When must rosters be cut down to 53 players?

After the preseason, every NFL team faces the difficult task of cutting their roster down to 53 players, so when must teams make their cuts by?

When it comes to NFL training camps and the preseason, the majority of football fans are just truly happy to see the game back in the forefront of sports. Even more ardent fans are looking at the high-profile positional battles or how new additions and rookies are performing with their new teams. However, there is, of course, a much more dire battle going on.

While these things are going on, there are players on these rosters for camp and the preseason that are fighting for their lives in the NFL. Whether these players are undrafted free agents trying to stick, veterans who might be on their last legs, or simply players who have worn out their welcome in a certain place, many guys are just trying to make it to the regular season.

Throughout the entirety of training camp and the preseason, numerous players will be cut from rosters for one reason or another. However, there is one day where it all comes to a head in this regard: the day that teams must whittle down their roster to 53 men.

That day for the 2018 NFL season will be on Saturday, Sept. 1 when all 32 teams must have their 53-man roster ready by 4:00 p.m. ET.

To be fair, it’s not all sadness for every player who gets cut on this day. Some will be signed by other teams, particularly many of the veteran players. Meanwhile, younger players with upside will be stashed on practice squads and have further chances to prove themselves.

Next: NFL 2018: One likely veteran cut for each team

Regardless of what happens though, we’ll know which players will be on the field come Week 1 of the regular season on Sept. 1 after these big roster cuts. As such, it’s a day fans need to keep in mind heading into the new year.