NFL waiver wire, explained: What is the process, and how does it affect the Patriots?

TAMPA, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 9: A detailed view of an official Wilson NFL football on the grass field during an NFL football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the New England Patriots at Raymond James Stadium on November 9, 2025 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images) | Getty Images After a preseason showdown against the Cleveland Browns, the New England Patriots will begin cutting down their 90-man roster. The team needs to make 37 moves ahead of the NFL’s deadline o