Even though it’s just the second week of the preseason, teams are already starting to assess their situations. Injuries, player performances, and suspensions are impacting some of the league’s top teams, while others find themselves with an abundance of talent and may look to make trades.
The NFL has set a single cut-off date for August 26, which has altered how players are released—making it a more gradual process and providing teams with more opportunities for signings during camp. As a result, several significant veteran signings are happening just before the roster cuts.
Adam Thielen of the Minnesota Vikings
It’s surprising, but the Vikings actually need help with their receiving corps this year. The biggest concern for Minnesota is that JJ McCarthy can start strong. However, with Jordan Addison facing a three-game suspension and Rondale Moore enduring a season-ending knee injury, that’s a tough spot.
Currently, Minnesota’s starting receivers are Justin Jefferson, Tyfelton, and Jaren Naylor—a combination that seems weak.
This is where Adam Thielen could come in handy. The Carolina Panthers have faith in Thielen, yet they’re grappling with their own receiver issues. With indicators pointing towards Tetairo Amakumillan and Xavier Leggett securing starting roles, Thielen finds himself in a crowded slot position, while emerging talents like Jalen Coker, Hunter Renfrow, and rookie Jimmy Horn Jr. sit on the bench.
The Panthers often view Thielen as a glue guy for veteran leadership, though the front office might see him as expendable given the younger players’ developments. For Minnesota, he could serve as a bridging WR—offering outside scoring options and slot flexibility when Addison returns.
Kirk Cousins of the Los Angeles Rams
The Rams’ season relies heavily on maintaining balance. Matthew Stafford’s back injury has sidelined him for much of training camp, raising concerns about his return. This situation has created a real possibility of Jimmy Garoppolo starting the season, which, frankly, isn’t ideal. Sure, he’s a capable backup, but he likely won’t provide the same playoff spark as Stafford.
And then there’s Kirk Cousins. The Falcons’ peculiar offseason has led him into a situation where he’s backed up by one of the highest-paid QBs ever. While there have been occasional whispers about Atlanta looking for a solid trade, that seems a bit far-fetched. Essentially, offloading a significant portion of his salary for a mid-round pick makes sense if the Falcons are committed to Michael Penix Jr.
Cousins may not be the ideal QB, but he could be crucial in helping the Rams secure a playoff spot.
Cavontibodeau to the Detroit Lions
I’m hopping on this bandwagon too. As the Giants continue their narrative around the Pass Rush Trio, they face a luxury issue that allows them to consider other priorities.
The Detroit Lions have long been urged to enhance their pass rush, a need that’s become even clearer with injuries piling up in their secondary. It would be wise for the Lions to focus on bolstering their QB defense first rather than simply adding to their pass rush or switching players in their secondary right before the season.
Thibodeaux isn’t a fit for Brian Burns, which is why the Giants welcomed Abdul Carter in the draft. Together, Thibodeaux and Burns presented challenges, especially against the run, given their similar play styles as finesse pass rushers. Meanwhile, the Lions have depth that could aid the Giants in making further moves.
New York’s offensive line is dealing with chaos, while a beloved player is set to serve as a backup in Detroit this season. There’s a potential path for the Giants to secure a better deal by adding some picks and moving on, making a stronger lineup. At the same time, the Lions would gain a pass rusher, possibly enhancing their defense significantly.
Terry McLaurin to the Houston Texans
There’s another potential trade that seems sensible upon closer inspection. The status between the Commander and McLaurin remains unclear. It doesn’t make much sense, but here we are. Both teams might need each other more than they’re willing to admit, which could lead to a breaking point.
The Texans, on the other hand, have a clear intent to arm CJ Stroud with superior weapons. In this aspect, McLaurin would be a vital upgrade at WR, complementing the current lineup of Nico Collins and Tank Dell. I didn’t mention WR2 Christian Kirk because he’s potentially heading to Washington in this scenario.
Commander OC Kliff Kingsbury successfully capitalized on Kirk’s abilities in Arizona to transform him into a 1,000-yard receiver—something hardly anyone else managed to do. Should the Commanders feel the need to replace McLaurin, Kirk could fit well into their system.
For the Texans, this would be a strong move that aligns with their strategy of building a potent aerial attack.
