The list included long-time Owls figures including the likes of Tom Lees, Kieren Westwood and Adam Reach and short-term flops including Elias Kachunga and Moses Odubajo.
Julian Börner and Andre Green left for fees and the loan terms of Jack Marriott and Izzy Brown were not renewed. The winds of change blew hard after a crushing relegation from the Championship.
So much water has flowed under the bridge since and without them Wednesday have launched into a promotion back to the second tier at the first attempt.
But how are the 16 departed Owls doing since that whirlwind summer?
Via shock moves abroad, a humiliating release, probable titles wins and injury woes, here’s a full run-through guide.
9. Izzy Brown
Yet another player who disappointed for the Owls and who had his stint at Hillsborough torn apart by injury, Brown severed long-held ties with Chelsea to sign for Championship Preston North End. His woes came back to haunt him in a hurry, however, and he has yet to kick a ball for the club having suffered a knee injury. Photo: George Wood
10. Osaze Urhoghide
Young defender Urhoghide followed Shaw to Celtic and is another to have been loaned out having played only once in a dead rubber Europa League win against Real Betis. His temporary stint has come in Europe at Belgian side KV Oostende, where he has played once so far. Photo: Catherine Ivill
11. Adam Reach
A free agent in the summer, Reach made the switch to West Brom and started brightly as they set the pace in the Championship promotion race. In 26 appearances he has yet to score and his form has fluctuated. Has played every minute since the arrival of his former Owls boss Steve Bruce. Photo: Nathan Stirk
12. Matt Penney
Perhaps something of a surprise exit in the summer, Penney signed for fellow League One promotion hopefuls Ipswich Town and has made 22 matches, scoring one goal. He's been injured since mid-January having enjoyed decent form for the third tier underachievers. Photo: Ashley Allen