NFL Cuts 2015: Predicting Notable Names Likely to Be Released

NFL teams have already begun the process of parting ways with veterans—Darnell Dockett, Phil Taylor and Tim Jennings, to name a few—and more recognizable names are sure to follow. 

September 5 is the deadline for teams to have their rosters at the regular-season maximum of 53. 

As we approach the deadline, teams are frantically trying to trade anyone they feel may have value on the market, but teams unable to find trade partners will be forced to cut ties with their veterans in the final hours before the deadline. 

Here's a look at a few notable players who could potentially wind up on the open market at the last minute. 

Montee Ball, RB, Denver Broncos

Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Just three years after being selected in the second round by Denver, Ball has plummeted down the Broncos depth chart and is reportedly on the trading block, according to Vic Lombardi of 104.3 The Fan in Denver. 

"

Broncos and Cowboys discussing a deal for Montee Ball.

— Vic Lombardi (@VicLombardi) September 4, 2015"

Clarence Hill of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram has disputed the report, at least in terms of the Cowboys' involvement, but it certainly appears as though Ball is on shaky ground in Denver. 

C.J. Anderson is expected to resume his duties as the workhorse in Denver, with Ronnie Hillman also factoring into the rotation. 

Ball led the Broncos with 32 carries this preseason, but he averaged just 2.1 yards per attempt. 

Christine Michael, RB, Seattle Seahawks

Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

The Seahawks selected Michael in the second round in 2013, but he has been buried on the depth chart behind Marshawn Lynch and Robert Turbin for two seasons. 

There was little reason to believe his job was in jeopardy until the Seahawks signed veteran free agent Fred Jackson, according to NFL.com's Ian Rapoport.

"

Former #Bills RB Fred Jackson has agreed on a one-year deal to join the #Seahawks, source said. He joins tag-teamer #Beastmode

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 4, 2015"

Michael appears to be having a strong preseason, leading the Seahawks with 32 carries, while averaging 3.9 yards per attempt.  

With another veteran in the backfield, however, Michael is likely the odd man out.

Terrelle Pryor, WR, Cleveland Browns

Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Pryor's attempted conversion to wide receiver in Cleveland may have been one of the more intriguing storylines of the preseason had he been healthy. But a hamstring injury limited his time on the field, as he appeared in just one game for the Browns.

Pryor made his preseason debut on Thursday, playing 17 snaps and taking two rushing attempts but received zero targets in the passing game, according to Pro Football Focus.

The Browns don't have a ton of talent at wide receiver, but the depth is strong enough to put Pryor's status in doubt. 

"

Mike Pettine on adding Terrelle Pryor to the roster: “It certainly would be a leap of faith." #Browns

— Dawg Pound Daily (@dawgpounddaily) September 4, 2015"

Dwayne Bowe, Brian Hartline, Taylor Gabriel, Andrew Hawkins and Travis Benjamin are all expected to be safely ahead of Pryor. Pryor's competition would appear to be 2015 fourth-round pick Vince Mayle and journeyman Marlon Moore.