NFL cut day is always brutal, but how did our beloved Scarlet Knights fare? From unexpected triumphs to tough goodbyes, discover which Rutgers stars survived the roster trims for the 2025 season. Did your favorite former Knight make the cut, or are they looking for a new home?
As the dust settles on the rigorous NFL cut day, the fate of numerous collegiate athletes hangs in the balance, a scenario acutely felt by the dedicated fanbase of Rutgers Football. This annual trimming of rosters down to the essential 53 players marks a pivotal moment for aspiring and established professionals alike, determining who will don their team’s colors for the upcoming season and who will seek new opportunities. For the Scarlet Knights, this period is a testament to the enduring presence of their talent in the professional ranks, showcasing both triumphs and tough decisions made by NFL teams.
This year, one remarkable success story emerged with a former Scarlet Knight cornerback, an undrafted free agent, earning a coveted spot on the Los Angeles Chargers’ 53-man roster. Having transferred to Rutgers after two seasons at Northern Illinois, he quickly ascended through the ranks, culminating in a starting role in 2024. His standout performances during the preseason, including two critical interceptions and a touchdown return against the Saints, alongside a recovered fumble in the Hall of Fame Game, undoubtedly cemented his place, demonstrating the potential within these determined NFL Players.
However, cut day also brought its share of disappointments for other former Rutgers standouts. Second-year wide receiver JaQuae Jackson, also with the Chargers, faced release, as did tight end Shawn Bowman from the Jacksonville Jaguars. Kicker Jude McAtamney, despite making his NFL debut in 2024 with an extra point and a field goal for the New York Giants, was initially cut but swiftly re-signed to their practice squad, offering valuable insurance behind veteran Graham Gano. These moments underscore the fierce competition for limited spots on NFL Rosters.
Beyond the more recent graduates, several other former Rutgers players experienced the harsh realities of roster reductions across the league. Defensive lineman Isaiah Iton from the New England Patriots, Michael Dwumfour of the Denver Broncos, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Tre Avery were also waived by their respective teams. These decisions, while difficult, are an inherent part of the NFL landscape, continually shaping the composition of every team’s lineup.
Among the three Scarlet Knights drafted this season, their paths have diverged significantly since the draft. Running back Kyle Monangai currently holds the third spot on the Chicago Bears’ depth chart, both as a kick returner and running back, with strong indications that he could climb to the second position behind D’Andre Swift as the season progresses. Conversely, Houston Texans defensive lineman Kyonte Hamilton and Baltimore Ravens cornerback Robert Longerbeam both suffered injuries during training camp, leading to their placement on injured reserve for the entire 2025 season, a challenging setback for these promising NFL Players.
Despite the recent cuts, a robust contingent of former Rutgers players continues to make significant impacts across the NFL. Arizona Cardinals cornerback Max Melton and Green Bay Packers cornerback Bo Melton (who transitioned from wide receiver) exemplify the versatility of Scarlet Knights in the league. Running back Isiah Pacheco remains a vital force for the Kansas City Chiefs, while defensive lineman Sebastian Joseph-Day anchors the Tennessee Titans’ defense. Cornerback Christian Braswell with the Jaguars and safety Christian Izien for the Buccaneers have also firmly established their roles in recent years, showcasing the depth of talent emerging from Rutgers Football.
The legacy of Rutgers in the NFL is further underscored by its longest-tenured representatives. Minnesota Vikings long snapper Andrew DePaola, a veteran since 2012, and Denver Broncos fullback Michael Burton, in the league since 2015, continue to be stalwarts, embodying the longevity and resilience of Scarlet Knights who successfully transition to the professional game. Their consistent presence highlights the solid foundation provided by the Rutgers Football program for aspiring NFL Players.
Ultimately, the annual NFL cut day serves as a powerful reminder of the high stakes and relentless competition within professional football, but also of the persistent pipeline of talent from institutions like Rutgers. While some Scarlet Knights faced temporary setbacks or significant challenges, the overall picture reveals a strong and enduring presence of Rutgers alumni across various NFL Rosters, with many poised to make substantial contributions in the 2025 season and beyond.
