NFL teams prepare for roster cuts following preseason finale

As the NFL preseason concludes, teams are preparing for the mandatory roster cutdown to 53 players. The San Francisco 49ers secured an 18-12 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders in their preseason finale. During the game, 49ers running back Kaelon Black earned significant playing time, positioning himself as a strong candidate for the RB2 role behind Christian McCaffrey, who sat out the preseason due to muscle tightness. McCaffrey was also recently named No. 6 on the NFL Top 100 Players list.

The Las Vegas Raiders' preseason performance highlighted rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who faced significant pressure, recording two sacks and an interception. Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak indicated that Mendoza requires more development, with veteran Kirk Cousins expected to start in Week 1.

Following the cuts, the NFL waiver wire process will begin, allowing teams to claim eligible players. Vested veterans with four or more credited seasons will become immediate free agents, while players with fewer seasons will be subject to the waiver claim period.