With the NFL trade deadline for 2024 rapidly approaching on November 5, teams are reshaping their rosters in pursuit of playoff spots. Just hours before the Bills acquired Amari Cooper from the Browns on October 15, the Jets made a trade for Davante Adams. The Chiefs also secured a wide receiver this past Wednesday by trading for DeAndre Hopkins from the Titans.
However, more transactions are on the horizon. Which teams currently have the salary cap space to make significant moves? Who is well-positioned to increase their draft capital or execute a game-changing deal? Additionally, which teams might opt to sit out the deadline to conserve cap space while planning to extend their star players next year?
We consulted our NFL Nation reporters to examine the available cap space and draft capital for all 32 teams. While not every team will engage in trading, this analysis aims to evaluate each roster’s trade potential. Teams are categorized below by their current available cap space, from highest to lowest. All projected cap space figures for 2024 and 2025 are sourced from the Roster Management System, as of October 23.
Jump to:
ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN
CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND
JAX | KC | LAC | LAR | LV | MIA | MIN
NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF
SEA | TB | TEN | WSH
Cap space: $55.2 million
The 49ers possess the capability to target any player they desire. However, much of their cap space is designated to carry over into the next season, when they are almost certain to sign quarterback Brock Purdy to a substantial contract extension.
It wouldn’t be surprising if they leveraged some draft capital to enhance their defensive line, offensive line, or linebacker corps, should a suitable option arise. Nonetheless, any high-cost acquisitions are likely to be viewed as short-term solutions. — Nick Wagoner
Cap space: $48.2 million
Cleveland finds itself with ample cap space after restructuring quarterback Deshaun Watson’s contract, converting $44.8 million of his $46 million base salary into a signing bonus prior to the season. Additionally, they have no remaining obligations regarding draft picks from the Watson trade, granting them sufficient draft capital to facilitate a trade. However, the Browns are expected to roll over a majority of their cap space into the 2025 season and may prefer to retain their picks to rejuvenate an aging roster that has underperformed. — Daniel Oyefusi
Cap space: $39.4 million
Trading wide receiver Davante Adams without picking up any of his remaining salary for the current season benefitted the Raiders as they approached the deadline. However, if they are indeed in a rebuilding phase, they are unlikely to be very proactive in pursuing additional contributors. The contrary may be true.
General Manager Tom Telesco is projected to have around $81 million in cap space for 2025, currently ranking as the fifth highest in the league. The search for a franchise quarterback continues, as both Gardner Minshew and Aidan O’Connell (now sidelined with a broken thumb) have struggled so far this season. — Paul Gutierrez
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Cap space: $38.6 million
The recent trade involving outside linebacker Matthew Judon, who was sent to the Falcons for a 2025 third-round pick, illustrates the team’s desire to gain valuable draft capital as part of a multi-year rebuilding strategy. With the Patriots currently sitting at a 1-6 record, it appears unlikely they would expend a high draft pick on a player, unless they find themselves in a situation similar to the Bears’ acquisition of pass rusher Montez Sweat for a second-round pick last season, which led to a long-term deal for Sweat from Chicago.
The Patriots might also explore the option of taking on a player with an unfavorable contract if it allows them to secure an early-round pick. In 2017, the Browns did just that by acquiring quarterback Brock Osweiler, absorbing his contract while also obtaining a second-round pick from the Texans in the transaction. — Mike Reiss
Cap space: $36.5 million
The Lions possess a significant amount of cap space. Since general manager Brad Holmes took over in 2021, his strategy has involved drafting promising players, developing their skills, and rewarding their successes with contract extensions. The organization has already secured extensions for three members of the 2021 draft class: wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, offensive tackle Penei Sewell, and defensive tackle Alim McNeill, along with extensions for veterans running back David Montgomery and quarterback Jared Goff.
Nevertheless, following Pro Bowl edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson’s surgery to repair a fractured left tibia and fibula, the team may find it prudent to leverage its draft selections to acquire a veteran capable of stepping into his role. — Eric Woodyard
Cap space: $26.7 million
The Commanders aim to establish a continually successful franchise and find themselves in a strong position to achieve this goal. Boasting the sixth-most cap space for this season and the second-most for 2025 ($94.7 million), along with nine draft picks—four of which are in the first three rounds—they are well-equipped for the future.
Making a move appears unlikely unless it aligns with long-term goals or incurs a minimal immediate cost, as they possess multiple seventh-round picks. Currently, they are already a formidable contender in the NFC East. — John Keim
Cap space: $26.0 million
The Cardinals find themselves with ample cap space, should general manager Monti Ossenfort wish to capitalize on it. Since his hiring in 2023, he has been focused on methodically dismantling and rebuilding the team. Safety Budda Baker and running back James Conner are both due for contract extensions this offseason. However, Arizona has pressing needs at cornerback and pass rusher that could potentially be addressed through trades, and they certainly have the financial flexibility to do so. — Josh Weinfuss
Cap space: $22.7 million
Cap space can often be misleading. While the Cowboys have a solid amount of cap space at the moment, it’s important to remember that they will need to set aside over $20 million for the upcoming dead money associated with the contracts of guard Zack Martin and defensive end
Once the contracts of DeMarcus Lawrence and wide receiver Brandin Cooks are voided in 2025 (should they not be re-signed), it will have significant implications.
To create additional cap space, Dallas plans to restructure the contracts of quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb by March. However, the front office has been explicit about its strategy: The Cowboys will refrain from engaging heavily in the free agency market. Consequently, retaining their top draft picks has become even more critical for their roster-building efforts. — Todd Archer
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Cap space: $16.0 million
With no essential free agents from their roster heading into next year, the Packers have the capacity to absorb a contract should they acquire a player through trade. Their financial situation regarding dead money is also favorable. They are facing nearly $50 million in dead money this season’s cap but will reduce that to approximately $8.4 million in 2025. This figure could rise again if they part ways with veteran players like defensive end Preston Smith, who carries a substantial contract. — Rob Demovsky
Cap space: $15.7 million
Following the signing of Davante Adams and the re-acquisition of edge rusher Haason Reddick, the Jets still have sufficient cap space to bring in an additional veteran. However, it seems they are finished with major moves.
Having a pick in every round for the 2025 draft provides the Jets with ample draft capital, allowing them to make minor trades that could enhance their depth in positions such as safety or tight end. Yet, there comes a time when they must draw the line. — Rich Cimini
Cap space: $15.3 million
Despite a rocky start, the Jaguars are unlikely to target additional talent at the trade deadline, but they won’t be offloading their star players either. They retain a strong core and invested nearly $500 million in the offseason to secure quarterback Trevor Lawrence, defensive end Josh Hines-Allen, and cornerback Tyson Campbell. Therefore, Jacksonville isn’t in a position to dismantle and rebuild, regardless of whether general manager Trent Baalke and coach Doug Pederson remain in 2025.
Last week, Pederson indicated he doesn’t foresee further trades after moving defensive tackle Roy Robertson-Harris to Seattle; still, the Jaguars would entertain any offers from interested teams. — Michael DiRocco
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Cap space: $14.9 million
If the Titans decide to pursue a quality player, they possess sufficient cap space for a potential trade. Nevertheless, the recent trades for DeAndre Hopkins and Ernest Jones IV suggest that Ran Carthon and his team are prioritizing a draft-focused strategy, aiming to secure additional picks.
After an offseason that saw significant spending, including the acquisitions of playmakers Calvin Ridley and Tony Pollard, the Titans find themselves in a challenging situation; their efforts have not yielded wins. With a dismal 1-5 record to start the season, the team’s focus has shifted to establishing a solid foundation for the future. — Turron Davenport
Cap space: $14.0 million
The Colts have just enough cap space to accommodate a midlevel salary in the event of a trade. In a somewhat uncharacteristic move, the franchise restructured several contracts late in the offseason to create additional cap flexibility.
However, Indianapolis has not shown a recent pattern of acquiring prominent players during the trade deadline and tends to prefer rolling over any unspent cap space into the next year. This practice is expected to continue if the funds remain unused. — Stephen Holder
Cap space: $14.0 million
The Vikings have taken on $62 million in dead money for their 2024 cap, which includes $28.5 million for quarterback Kirk Cousins (currently with Atlanta) and $14.9 million for linebacker Danielle Hunter (now with Houston). While this represents a short-term hit, it will significantly enhance their cap flexibility in 2025 and beyond, especially as they presumably transition to quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who will still have up to four years remaining on his rookie deal.
This season, they possess enough cap space to pursue a modest trade, particularly with plans for significantly increased room next season. — Kevin Seifert
Cap space: $12.9 million
John Schneider has established himself as one of the NFL’s most proactive general managers in the trade market, and he has sufficient draft capital for 2025 to facilitate a trade, as Seattle holds picks in every round. However, he must weigh the team’s immediate needs—such as upgrading the guard position—with the potential for a cap squeeze in the offseason. Recently, the Seahawks bolstered their linebacker corps by trading Jerome Baker along with an additional fourth-round pick for Ernest Jones IV.
Several key starters, including quarterback Geno Smith, wide receiver DK Metcalf, left tackle Charles Cross, outside linebacker Boye Mafe, cornerback Riq Woolen, and running back Kenneth Walker III, are due for significant contract extensions. Consequently, any trades that Seattle contemplates will likely need to be on the more affordable side. — Brady Henderson
Cap space: $12.6 million
The Steelers hold enough flexibility to target moderately priced talents—possibly a wide receiver in the last year of his contract—during the trade deadline. However, do not expect the usual…
The Steelers, known for their frugal spending, are looking to secure a high-priced veteran, particularly with extensions for linebacker T.J. Watt and possibly a quarterback looming after this season.
Without sacrificing their future, the Steelers are well-positioned with draft capital for any potential trade discussions. Additionally, they acquired a few extra late-round picks by trading guards Kevin Dotson and Kendrick Green. — Brooke Pryor
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Cap space: $11.5 million
When general manager Joe Hortiz took the helm, he faced one of the NFL’s most challenging cap situations. He managed to bring the team into compliance by trading star wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, along with restructuring the deals of outside linebackers Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack. Despite the Chargers’ limited cap space this season, they are still expected to be active at the trade deadline, particularly due to their cornerback position being compromised by injuries. Looking ahead, the Chargers are projected to have nearly $90 million in cap space next season, ranking fourth in the NFL, and are likely to extend left tackle Rashawn Slater. — Kris Rhim
Cap space: $14.9 million
Many star players on the team will experience significant increases in their cap numbers by 2025, most notably quarterback Jalen Hurts, whose number is set to rise from $13.6 million to $21.8 million.
With $76 million already allocated to just four players (Hurts, A.J. Brown, Jordan Mailata, and Lane Johnson), Philadelphia finds itself in a position where it cannot afford to spend too freely in the near future, likely precluding any major contract additions at the deadline. Nevertheless, general manager Howie Roseman is known for being one of the most active traders in the NFL. He currently holds seven draft picks for 2025, including three fifth-round selections. — Tim McManus
Cap space: $10.5 million
While Cincinnati’s cap space appears sufficient to acquire a mid-level impact player, it is important to note that the team typically avoids making roster changes to create additional cap space. They also appreciate the value of rolling over any unused cap into the following year, particularly with a potential extension for receiver Ja’Marr Chase on the horizon.
The Bengals rarely engage in in-season trades unless a player becomes unhappy with their role, such as defensive end Carlos Dunlap’s trade to the Seahawks in 2020 after he expressed dissatisfaction. — Ben Baby
Cap space: $9.1 million
The Buccaneers face several decisions over the next couple of years. Wide receiver Chris Godwin, in the final year of his contract, will be sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a dislocated ankle. They also anticipate being without fellow wide receiver Mike Evans.
for the next three games due to a hamstring injury.
Is it theoretically possible for them to trade for a new wide receiver? It is indeed plausible, particularly when considering how little the Chiefs parted with for DeAndre Hopkins. However, Tampa Bay coach Todd Bowles had this to say: ”We believe Mike will return, but we have a great appreciation for our young players. There are options available, but weighing what we would have to give up for them, it probably doesn’t make sense in the long run.” — Jenna Laine
Cap space: $8.9 million
The Panthers are preparing for a significant season in 2025, with over $45 million in projected cap space and most of their key players signed, including defensive end Derrick Brown and linebacker Jadeveon Clowney. They also seem to be in contention for a top-three draft pick, as per ESPN’s Football Power Index forecasts.
Thus, the combination of a high draft selection and available funds next year remains the route to future success, just as it was envisioned before this season started. — David Newton
Cap space: $8.6 million
Miami possesses enough resources to make a valuable veteran addition later in the season, if needed. Yet, major moves are not anticipated for any player that would necessitate a long-term contract upon completion of the trade, similar to Bradley Chubb in 2022.
Projected to have around $4 million in cap space in 2025, the Dolphins have only 38 players under contract (with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s extension set to commence). Expect a series of cuts and restructuring this offseason to maintain the team’s financial flexibility. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
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Cap space: $8.3 million
Despite battling injuries, particularly within their linebacker corps, as Azeez Al-Shaair (knee) and Christian Harris (calf) have both missed time, the Texans are not expected to make significant moves. Although there has been speculation about adding a safety, they prefer to develop their current talent and are pleased with rookie Calen Bullock, who has recorded three interceptions this season. They indeed have the capacity to make a move, but their roster appears to be quite stable. — DJ Bien-Aime
Cap space: $7.9 million
The Broncos are facing salary cap difficulties after releasing quarterback Russell Wilson earlier this year, incurring an $85 million dead money penalty over two seasons. They have also adjusted nearly every significant contract among their current players, except for left tackle Garett Bolles, to create space.
Denver appears to be more inclined to trade players away than to acquire new talent. This year, the team is contending with a league-high dead money total of $76.4 million, leading to a challenging financial situation.
Players on injured reserve have consumed $25 million of the available cap space. Acquiring any significant contracts would necessitate that the Broncos further compromise their future financial standing, as they are already facing approximately $32 million in dead money for 2025. Additionally, the Broncos are in need of more draft picks and are open to considering all proposals that could assist them in achieving that. — Jeff Legwold
Cap space: $7.7 million
General manager Ryan Poles has been quite proactive during the last two trade deadlines, adding wide receiver Chase Claypool in 2022 and defensive end Montez Sweat in 2023 to address team needs. Currently, however, there is no glaring gap to fill. Chicago’s priority in the offseason must be reinforcing the offensive line, although recent enhancements in that area have been encouraging, and tackle Larry Borom (ankle) and guard Ryan Bates (shoulder/elbow) will soon return from injured reserve.
While there are a couple of enticing pass rushers worth monitoring, the Bears must consider how two costly defensive end contracts will impact their long-term salary cap strategy. The team made Sweat their most highly paid player as of November. — Courtney Cronin
Cap space: $7.1 million
The Giants find themselves with limited options for making significant moves as the trade deadline approaches. Their cap space barely suffices to carry them through the season, especially with the inevitable injuries that will arise. Additionally, it’s unlikely that the Giants will trade away any draft capital. They are expected to be in pursuit of a quarterback during next year’s draft, making it essential for them to accumulate as many picks as possible to broaden their options and flexibility. — Jordan Raanan
Cap space: $5.0 million
The Ravens have taken an assertive approach at the deadline under general manager Eric DeCosta, but any potential deals would require another team to absorb player salaries. DeCosta has recognized that managing the cap will be a challenge following the signing of Lamar Jackson, whose $32.4 million cap hit ranks sixth among quarterbacks.
DeCosta has demonstrated a willingness to trade draft picks to meet team needs. In previous seasons, Baltimore has acquired middle linebacker Roquan Smith, cornerback Marcus Peters, and pass rusher Yannick Ngakoue. Last year, the team attempted to secure running back Derrick Henry, eventually signing him in free agency. — Jamison Hensley
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Cap space: $4.7 million
The Falcons took early action this year, acquiring two former Pro Bowl players in late August. They traded a 2025 third-round draft pick to the Patriots for edge rusher Matthew Judon and signed safety Justin Simmons to a one-year deal worth $7.5 million.
General manager Terry Fontenot had to reach out to several Atlanta players to
The team has been proactive in restructuring their current contracts to facilitate new deals. They are operating under a win-now mentality, so it’s possible they may address specific needs at the trade deadline, such as enhancing their pass-rushing or wide receiver depth. — Marc Raimondi
Cap space: $4.3 million
The Saints find themselves with limited financial resources for substantial moves unless they create additional cap space. They could consider restructuring Alvin Kamara’s contract, which remains the only significant contract untouched this season.
New Orleans may only pursue this option if they genuinely believe they can secure a game-changing player, as any new acquisition would negatively impact their 2025 salary cap. The team is already facing major cap challenges for the coming year, with five players having cap hits of at least $20 million each. Notably, quarterback Derek Carr’s cap hit for 2025 stands at $51.4 million. This situation likely indicates a quiet trade deadline for them. — Katherine Terrell
Cap space: $3.8 million
After acquiring DeAndre Hopkins, the Chiefs find themselves with limited flexibility in their cap situation for any trades. While they have a bit of leeway, they cannot absorb any large contracts. They currently have two players with the highest cap hits in their positions—tight end Travis Kelce and guard Joe Thuney—along with three other high-cap players including quarterback Patrick Mahomes, tackle Jawaan Taylor, and safety Justin Reid.
Moreover, they are likely done trading away draft picks after surrendering a conditional fourth-round pick for Hopkins. Kansas City has been cautious about not risking their present window with Mahomes. — Adam Teicher
Cap space: $3.5 million
The Bills managed to utilize some of their limited cap space to secure Amari Cooper, whose contract is approximately $800,000 against their cap. Any further moves will necessitate careful cap management, especially since they incurred significant dead cap costs this season after parting ways with wide receiver Stefon Diggs.
Though their situation is tight, general manager Brandon Beane has openly stated his intent to explore improvements for the roster. The outlook for next year appears more promising regarding cap space. — Alaina Getzenberg
Cap space: $2.0 million
The Rams are constrained by their salary cap due to three players each carrying cap hits of at least $23 million, including $23.8 million in dead money for retired player Aaron Donald. Although they have several contracts that could be restructured to generate some maneuverability, such a move would be unexpected given their current losing record. Additionally, Los Angeles traded up using their second-round pick for defensive lineman Braden Fiske earlier this year. — Sarah Barshop
NFC and AFC Trade Deadline Outlook: Examining Cap Space and Opportunities for NFL Teams
NFC and AFC Trade Deadline Outlook
The NFL trade deadline is a pivotal moment in the season, where teams have the opportunity to reshuffle their rosters to enhance their chances for playoff success. As teams in both the NFC (National Football Conference) and AFC (American Football Conference) prepare for this crucial period, it’s essential to examine their cap space, potential trade targets, and the overall landscape of the league.
Understanding Cap Space in the NFL
Cap space refers to the amount of money a team has available to spend on player salaries. Understanding cap space is crucial for teams looking to make trades as it dictates their ability to take on new contracts. Here’s a breakdown of how cap space influences trade decisions:
- Flexibility: Teams with significant cap space can absorb larger contracts, making them more attractive trading partners.
- Long-term planning: Managing cap space effectively allows teams to build for the future while also competing in the present.
- Strategic trades: Teams with limited cap space may focus on trading for players with expiring contracts or lower salaries.
NFC Teams to Watch
1. Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys are in a strong position with ample cap space. With a projected $15 million in cap space, they have the flexibility to pursue key players to bolster their roster.
- Potential Targets: A veteran wide receiver or offensive lineman could enhance their playoff chances.
- Opportunities: The Cowboys could look to trade for a player from a rebuilding franchise.
2. Green Bay Packers
Despite a challenging start to the season, the Packers still hold around $11 million in cap space. Their young roster could benefit from a strategic trade.
- Potential Targets: A defensive playmaker to strengthen their secondary.
- Opportunities: Acquiring a player with playoff experience could provide valuable leadership.
3. San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers are eyeing a deep playoff run and currently sit with about $9 million in cap space. They may look for depth at key positions.
- Potential Targets: A backup running back or experienced linebacker.
- Opportunities: Adding depth to the roster could prove vital as injuries mount throughout the season.
AFC Teams to Watch
1. Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins have been one of the more aggressive teams in recent years, and with approximately $12 million in cap space, they may continue this trend.
- Potential Targets: Defensive upgrades, particularly in the secondary.
- Opportunities: Trading for a proven pass rusher could elevate their defense.
2. New England Patriots
With about $10 million in cap space, the Patriots are in a transitional phase. They might look to offload some contracts while seeking young talent.
- Potential Targets: Young, developing players who fit their system.
- Opportunities: A mid-season trade could rejuvenate their roster.
3. Denver Broncos
The Broncos have struggled this season, and with roughly $8 million in cap space, they may look to rebuild their roster.
- Potential Targets: A quarterback or offensive lineman to improve the offense.
- Opportunities: Trading veteran players for draft capital could be a wise strategy.
Benefits of Strategic Trades
Making strategic trades during the NFL trade deadline can yield numerous benefits for teams:
- Immediate Improvement: Acquiring a proven player can elevate a team’s chances of success instantly.
- Future Assets: Trading players can provide invaluable draft picks or young talent to build a foundation.
- Enhanced Team Morale: The right trade can boost the locker room atmosphere and overall team chemistry.
Practical Tips for Teams Considering Trades
- Assess Your Needs: Identify areas where your team is lacking and target trades that address those needs.
- Evaluate Cap Space: Carefully consider how a trade will impact your salary cap both short and long-term.
- Research Potential Targets: Look into player performance, health, and fit within your system before pursuing a trade.
- Build Relationships: Foster positive relationships with other teams’ front offices; communication can lead to mutually beneficial trades.
Case Studies of Successful Trades
| Year | Team | Trade Details | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Miami Dolphins | Traded for CB Xavien Howard | Pro Bowl season, improved secondary |
| 2021 | Los Angeles Rams | Traded for QB Matthew Stafford | Reached playoffs, won Super Bowl |
| 2022 | San Francisco 49ers | Traded for RB Christian McCaffrey | Boosted offense, deep playoff run |
First-Hand Experience: Navigating the Trade Deadline
Many NFL teams have shared their experiences navigating the trade deadline:
“We had to weigh our options carefully. The trade deadline can make or break a season, and we were fortunate to find a great fit that enhanced our roster.” – Anonymous NFL General Manager.
“It’s all about timing. Knowing when to pull the trigger on a trade can change the trajectory of the entire franchise.” – Former NFL Coach.
Conclusion
As the NFL trade deadline approaches, teams in both the NFC and AFC are poised to make strategic decisions that could alter their seasons. By understanding cap space, identifying needs, and executing smart trades, teams can significantly enhance their chances of postseason success. Keeping an eye on potential trade targets and being proactive can set teams up for long-term success in the league.
