According to Fox Sports’ Greg Auman, the Buccaneers have released quarterback John Wolford as part of their final roster cuts to meet the 53-player limit ahead of Tuesday’s deadline. Auman reported on August 27: “The Bucs have already trimmed down to 53 players, well ahead of Tuesday’s 4 p.m. deadline. The final cuts include QB John Wolford, WR Ryan Miller, WR Cody Thompson, OL Luke Haggard, C Avery Jones, LB Vi Jones, and LB Antonio Grier.”
Similar Situation to Last Year
This decision echoes last year’s scenario when Wolford was released after losing the backup quarterback battle to Kyle Trask. He was re-signed to the practice squad after clearing waivers. It’s possible the same could happen this year if Wolford is released and then re-signed by Tampa Bay.
NFLPA Rule Changes
The NFLPA recently blocked a proposed rule that would have allowed teams to elevate a third quarterback from the practice squad to the active roster without counting against the 53-man limit. As a result, the third quarterback must be on the roster or be one of two players eligible for standard elevations from the practice squad each week, with a limit of three activations per season.
Wolford’s Background and Performance
John Wolford, 28, is best known for his time with the Los Angeles Rams, where he served as a backup quarterback and won a Super Bowl as the primary backup to Matthew Stafford during the 2021 season. Wolford played in four regular-season games with the Rams, starting two and recording one touchdown with five interceptions, totaling 626 passing yards and a 58.7% completion rate. He also started a playoff game against the Seattle Seahawks in 2020, although he was injured early in the game.
In the 2024 preseason, Wolford completed 19 of 32 passes for 183 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions. His performance fell short compared to Kyle Trask, who threw for 393 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception with a 65.1% completion rate and a 91.6 passer rating during the preseason. Trask also played most of the preseason finale, leading the Buccaneers to a 24-14 win over the Miami Dolphins.
Wolford does have a connection with offensive coordinator Liam Coen, having previously worked with him during Coen’s tenure with the Rams as an assistant quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator.