NFL Trade Deadline Approaches
Since the NFL adopted a 17-game schedule in 2021, the league added an extra week ahead of the trade deadline. This additional time allows teams to evaluate their performance and decide if they should acquire new players or let some go.
With two weeks remaining before the deadline, some teams are still weighing their options, but five teams have a clear understanding of their situation.
It’s time for them to activate their plans to make trades.
The New York Jets, sitting at 0-7, have their owner openly criticizing their starting quarterback. It’s apparent the Jets will be shifting to a selling strategy soon.
Among their trade candidates is running back Breece Hall. He’s on track to surpass 1,000 rushing yards in a crucial contract year and has expressed a desire to stay in New York. Yet, with backup Braylon Allen injured, the Jets might find it wise to trade Hall now, potentially gaining assets rather than losing him to free agency down the line.
Another player often mentioned in trade talks is pass rusher Jermaine Johnson, who still has a fifth-year option left on his contract. He’s struggled with injuries over the last two seasons, including missing time in 2024 due to an Achilles issue. That said, teams are always searching for strong pass rushers.
The Tennessee Titans, unfortunately, are in a rough spot early this season. With only one win against six losses, and trailing five games in the AFC South, their chances look slim, especially with tough matchups against the Colts and Chargers coming up. After already firing head coach Brian Callahan, they’ll likely be looking to offload some veteran players before the deadline.
Pass rusher Arden Key could be an attractive option for teams like the San Francisco 49ers and the Dallas Cowboys. Plus, teams needing help in their secondary might consider versatile player Roger McCreary.
However, it seems all but rookie QB Cam Ward and defensive lineman Jeffrey Simmons are on the trading block.
As discussed by James Deiter recently, the Miami Dolphins face tough choices as well, particularly regarding Mike McDaniel’s future. If a quarterback were traded, the dead money from Tua Tagovailoa’s extension complicates things. Also, the contracts of Tyreek Hill and Bradley Chubb add additional financial burdens that Miami has to navigate.
Interest is bubbling for players like Jaylen Waddle and Devon Ackern, but, according to sources, the Dolphins are not looking to deal either offensive standout. Nevertheless, a pass rusher could be in play, possibly someone like Matt Judon, Bradley Chubb, or Jaelan Phillips.
Judon, for instance, was a healthy scratch in their recent game against the Cleveland Browns, which ended in a 31-6 defeat.
On another front, the financial woes of the New Orleans Saints are daunting. Media discussions have long been weighing on their precarious monetary situation, with the deadline looming. Currently, they sit $18.4 million over the 2026 salary cap, with significant contracts tied up in stars like Cameron Jordan, Demario Davis, and Taysom Hill.
Some difficult decisions are certainly ahead.
Is trading Chris Olave an option? Moving him could help alleviate over $15 million in cap space, making a significant impact on the Saints’ financial recovery.
Just to clarify, I’ve really missed the Las Vegas Raiders.
In our earlier season preview, we made a case for the Raiders to fully embrace the culture change they’re undergoing and buy into their development plans.
However, as the trade deadline approaches, it may be time for the Raiders to switch gears and start selling. Even though they’re only three wins behind in the AFC West, they are currently the only team in the division under .500 and might still be a year away from serious playoff contention. With trade rumors heating up, particularly around Maxx Crosby, keep an eye on wide receiver Jacobi Meyers as a potential early mover in any deals.
