Many expected J.J. McCarthy, the national championship-winning quarterback for Michigan football, to be released by the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, NFL cutdown day.
However, that didn't happen. The Michigan football legend, who owns a 3-0 record against Ohio State and a 2-0 mark as a starter, and who helped the Wolverines go undefeated in the regular season in 2022 and 2023, is still on the Vikings' roster for now.
Either Minnesota isn't ready to give up on McCarthy, and it would be silly if they were, or they are holding out hope that he can increase his trade value. Either a team might have an injury that forces them to make a move, or McCarthy gets a chance to play at some point, improving his value.
Former Michigan football national champions released
Yet, some former Michigan football players were released. One of them is a rookie. Rayshaun Benny, who was a late-round draft pick for the Ravens, had a solid camp. He even had a sack against the Minnesota Vikings in the preseason, so the move was a little surprising.
Benny should get picked up either on waivers, or the Ravens' practice squad. Chances are, he will be on the 53-man roster at some point this season. Defensive tackles don't grow on trees.
Junior Colson was released by the Chargers after missing the 2025 season with an injury. He played in 11 games as a rookie, but has struggled to stay healthy. He did return an interception for a touchdown during the preseason, so there's still hope.
Another notable name released was Donovan Edwards. The former five-star running back had his share of ups and downs at Michigan. He was injured for most of the 2024 season and hasn't quite found his footing in the NFL.
It will be interesting to see if he winds up on the Dolphins' practice squad or if someone picks him up. All three still have a chance to make it in the league. Edwards and Colson have been dealt difficult hands with injuries. Trevor Keegan (Cowboys) and Michael Barrett (Ravens) were also released.
The most likely of those to make an NFL roster, as in an active roster this season, is Benny. Keegan could have a shot, too. With the shortage of quality offensive linemen in the NFL, he could get another chance.
The 2024 draft class still has McCarthy, Mike Sainristil, Kris Jenkins, Roman Wilson, Zak Zinter, AJ Barner and Blake Corum on active rosters. Seven of the eight players drafted in the fourth round or higher are still on the roster. Colson is the only one who was cut. Keegan was a fifth-rounder.
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