The activity level of the market at the NFL’s trade deadline, which is on Nov. 5 at 4 p.m. ET this year, can be unpredictable.
While the Buffalo Bills and New York Jets quickly recognized the need for change, results from Week 7 may have influenced other teams’ decisions.
Should teams buy, sell, or remain steady? This is the topic being explored by The Athletic’s NFL beat writers for all 32 teams as the deadline approaches in two weeks.
The inconsistent Cardinals benefit from the lack of dominance in the NFC West, a division where no team has established control. While a team with potential might consider a buying strategy, the Cardinals do not fit that mold for this season. Therefore, it could be prudent to trade Budda Baker. The All-Pro safety is set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. As a team captain and a prominent voice in the locker room, Baker, at 28, continues to perform at a high level. However, as they head into Monday’s game against the Chargers, the Cardinals have not demonstrated that they are in a position to contend. Such circumstances necessitate difficult decisions. Although moving Baker may not sit well with fans, it could represent the best course of action for the organization. — Doug Haller
Despite being at the bottom of the league with just six sacks, Atlanta finds itself in contention in the NFC South. The Falcons attempted to enhance their pass rush by acquiring Matthew Judon during training camp, but so far, results remain elusive. The situation worsened this week when Lorenzo Carter entered concussion protocol, further limiting their pass rush options. Coach Raheem Morris maintains that the pass rush is gradually improving, but progress is far too slow at this juncture. — Josh Kendall
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The Ravens face salary cap constraints that may complicate potential trades, and they usually focus on drafting and developing talent, so they are hesitant to part with draft picks unless a significant opportunity arises. Nonetheless, general manager Eric DeCosta is always on the lookout for ways to acquire quality players. The Ravens possess a solid roster and have remained largely injury-free, but there are areas such as edge rusher and safety where adding depth and quality would be beneficial. Expect DeCosta to be proactive this deadline, though not frantic. — Jeff Zrebiec
With their recent acquisition of Amari Cooper, the Bills have already shown their intentions regarding their chances in 2024. This trade aims to elevate a receiver group that desperately required improvement. General manager Brandon Beane has not dismissed the possibility of making additional moves before the deadline. Although injuries could shift their priorities, their most pressing needs appear to be at safety or backup offensive line, given the significant drop-off in performance from starters to backups. In the safety department, the Bills have left the possibility open for a Micah Hyde return should he decide to resume playing, addressing another critical need. — Joe Buscaglia
The Panthers are heading towards their seventh consecutive losing season. While Andy Dalton has managed to make the offense functional, the defense, plagued by injuries, threatens to allow more points than any team in NFL history. So
Indeed, first-year GM Dan Morgan is entering a significant phase of recouping draft picks. Teams have expressed interest in Bryce Young, but Morgan isn’t willing to part with the 2023 No. 1 overall pick easily. With rookie RB Jonathon Brooks preparing for his debut, it might be time to place Miles Sanders on the trading block. The same goes for veteran receivers Diontae Johnson and Adam Thielen, edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney, as well as defensive backs Jaycee Horn and Xavier Woods. — Joseph Person
Here’s the situation: the Bears have the potential to be both buyers and sellers. It wouldn’t come as a shock if they decided to trade running back Khalil Herbert or guard Nate Davis for draft picks. Similarly, acquiring help for their defensive line using some draft capital could also be in the cards. However, maintaining their current roster appears to be the prudent choice, especially with a first-round pick and two second-round picks to start the 2025 draft. Retaining these picks would provide a real opportunity to invest in improving both sides of the line. — Adam Jahns
After a rocky 1-4 start, the Bengals have fought their way back into contention. Under Joe Burrow’s leadership, the team has consistently demonstrated its ability to rally during the latter half of the season, so they’re not about to give up now. Additionally, Duke Tobin, the director of player personnel, typically avoids trading away key players that could lessen the team’s current performance in favor of future gains. This includes their key asset, wide receiver Tee Higgins, who may leave in free agency after the season. While the Bengals are more inclined to acquire players, the return of a healthier defensive line reduces any sense of urgency around trading away future picks. — Paul Dehner Jr.
With Deshaun Watson’s fully guaranteed contract, the Browns are facing a multi-year rebuilding process. Decisions must be made with careful consideration of the salary-cap implications stemming from their dealings with Watson and other high-investment players. It’s not a simple task to trade Myles Garrett to the highest bidder; many challenging discussions must occur before even contemplating that option. Nonetheless, the Browns should actively explore trading veteran defensive linemen Za’Darius Smith and Dalvin Tomlinson. — Zac Jackson
Despite the perception created by their losses this season, the Cowboys are still contenders for the division and should soon welcome back key injured players. Micah Parsons, Brandin Cooks, and DaRon Bland are nearing their return, while DeMarcus Lawrence and Marshawn Kneeland are expected back later in the season. However, even with these reinforcements, the Cowboys have glaring weaknesses, particularly at running back and defensive tackle. If the team truly intends to make a late-season push for the playoffs, addressing their needs on the trade market will be crucial. — Saad Yousuf
Currently at 4-3, the Broncos have exceeded many expectations, especially with a manageable home game against the Panthers coming up. They boast a defense that shows the potential to be elite, a dependable special teams unit, and a running game that is beginning to find its rhythm. Although it might be enticing to seek another weapon for rookie quarterback Bo Nix, the Broncos must also focus on future developments this season. They sacrificed a combined total of six first and second-round picks from 2022 to 2024 in trades for head coach Sean Payton and former quarterback Russell Wilson. The last two draft classes have yielded pivotal contributors, and maintaining draft capital is vital for continuing to build the team effectively. — Nick Kosmider
GO DEEPER
What we learned in NFL Week 7: Chiefs flip the script, Steelers’ bet pays off
The loss of Aidan Hutchinson was a devastating blow to a Detroit defense that had just begun to find its rhythm.
He was enjoying a Defensive Player of the Year-worthy season, leading the league in both sacks and pressures until he suffered a fracture in his tibia and fibula. Although the Lions managed to secure a victory without him on Sunday, acquiring another player capable of generating pressure from the edge should be Brad Holmes’ top priority as the trade deadline approaches. Both starting defensive ends, Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport, are sidelined for the remainder of the season. At times on Sunday, the Lions utilized rookie UDFA edge Isaac Ukwu and rookie sixth-round defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo in the two defensive end positions. While it doesn’t necessarily have to be a Maxx Crosby-caliber acquisition, the Lions require another player. — Colton Pouncy
Last season, sitting at 2-5, they traded starting cornerback Rasul Douglas to the Bills in exchange for a third-round pick. As of now, the Packers are 5-2 after seven games and are positioned as Super Bowl contenders. If anything, they could be buyers, but I don’t perceive any position that urgently requires improvement worthy of premium draft assets. Before Sunday, one might argue the pass rush needed reinforcement, but that unit had an impressive performance against the Texans. Traditionally, the Packers do not engage in significant trades at the deadline, and this year seems likely to follow suit since they already possess the essential components to contend. — Matt Schneidman
The Texans have an opportunity to enhance their 2025 draft picks by leveraging their surplus at wide receiver. With Nico Collins, Stefon Diggs, and Tank Dell secured, Houston also has Xavier Hutchinson, Robert Woods, and John Metchie III in their roster. Several contenders, including Baltimore and Kansas City, still seek additional wide receiver support. A seasoned veteran like Woods, who has received only five targets all season (with three receptions for 28 yards), should be able to assimilate into a new offense and make a quick impact. Metchie, a second-round pick from 2022, has struggled to secure playing time against Collins, Diggs, and Dell. He could also potentially yield a future pick for the Texans while assisting another team in the present. — Mike Jones
The Colts remain uncertain about their dual-threat quarterback, Anthony Richardson, who has tallied four total touchdowns and thrown six interceptions this season. His progress has been further stunted by missing two games due to an oblique injury. It’s difficult for me to envision a middle-of-the-pack team—confronted by uncertainty at the most pivotal position in football—acting as either a buyer or a seller as the trade deadline nears. Additionally, during GM Chris Ballard’s eight years with the franchise, the Colts have made only one regular-season trade. — James Boyd
The Jaguars are unexpectedly contending for the No. 1 pick, indicating that they will be in a selling mode. But what is the atmosphere within the organization regarding the urgency to trade players, especially with jobs on the line for the front office and coaching staff? This situation can result in a complicated dynamic. Players like wide receiver Christian Kirk, tight end Evan Engram, tackle Cam Robinson, and running back Travis Etienne Jr. might attract trade interest. The Jaguars must avoid making any moves that could significantly hinder Trevor Lawrence’s development, yet they need to contemplate the future since the current roster is not proving effective. — Jeff Howe
If the Carolina Panthers decide to become sellers while the Kansas City Chiefs are in the market, could WR Diontae Johnson (5) be a viable option for the defending Super Bowl champions? (Ian Maule / Getty Images)
Indeed, the Chiefs stand as the only undefeated team in the league. However, general manager Brett Veach needs to bolster the margin of error for quarterback Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City offense by trading for a receiver before the looming deadline. Several viable options are available, such as Diontae Johnson, Demarcus Robinson, and Darius Slayton. Compensation should not pose a challenge, given the Chiefs possess two third-round picks in 2025, including a higher one from the Titans. Although Mahomes secured a victory against the 49ers, it is unlikely for the Chiefs to rely on tight end Noah Gray as their leading receiver. — Nate Taylor
The online community buzzed when the Raiders traded Davante Adams, which led many to speculate that a deal involving Maxx Crosby being sent to the Lions for two first-round picks would follow, allowing Crosby to take over Aidan Hutchinson’s position. However, the Raiders are not in rebuild mode. They will require a quarterback and, now, a number one receiver next year while hoping that a defense led by Crosby and Christian Wilkins can exceed expectations. All of this, of course, depends on the decisions of new minority owner Tom Brady. — Vic Tafur
The Chargers are performing exceptionally well defensively. Quarterback Justin Herbert is on the mend, recovering from an early-season high ankle sprain. Coupled with one of the easiest remaining schedules in the league, this situation suggests the Chargers may very well contend for a playoff spot in what remains a notably open AFC. However, there are clear areas in the roster that could use improvement through trades, particularly at receiver and pass-catching tight end. Additionally, they might consider bolstering their cornerback position, as injuries have impacted the depth there. — Daniel Popper
It’s challenging to assess this Rams team currently sitting at 2-4 for two key reasons. Firstly, their offense is so riddled with injuries that they are struggling to establish any identity, although some players are expected to return in the next month, starting with receiver Cooper Kupp this Thursday night. Secondly, the NFC West remains relatively competitive. Could a run be possible? Perhaps, but protecting quarterback Matthew Stafford has proven difficult, and teams are reportedly inquiring about Kupp, according to a league source. With the uncertainty surrounding the offense, my initial instinct would be to exercise patience; however, general manager Les Snead typically does not take that approach. They may not need to pursue additional players because those they require are already on the roster—just injured. Time will tell what unfolds. — Jourdan Rodrigue
I find it difficult to advocate for inaction, yet that’s the position the 2-4 Dolphins (and a lackluster AFC wild-card race) have placed me in. They may not be good enough or poor enough to justify buying or selling. When QB Tua Tagovailoa returns, which appears likely this Sunday, there’s no reason Miami cannot still vie for a playoff spot. While perhaps simply making it to the playoffs should not be the primary goal, this team was designed to compete now, so why not take advantage of a favorable upcoming schedule? However, even with Tagovailoa’s return, there remains a significant chance that things could deteriorate in Miami, and the team should not sacrifice any of its future to acquire secondary pieces. — Jim Ayello
If you engage with Vikings coaches and players, they will unanimously agree that seasons and locker room energies like this one are rare in Minnesota. If that is the case, why not enhance the team (or at least strengthen the depth) when an opportunity arises? Three crucial aspects should be noted if the Vikings pursue new talent. First, Minnesota is not rich in
In terms of the 2025 draft picks, the Vikings currently have only three selections, which might necessitate dipping into future reserves to make any moves. Additionally, team chemistry is crucial, and a significant part of the Vikings’ success this season is tied to their existing roster dynamics. Introducing a new player could disrupt that balance. Moreover, with ample future cap space, the Vikings could very well launch their upcoming free agency plans by acquiring a high-profile player and offering him a new contract. — Alec Lewis
On one hand, it’s clear-cut. The team arguably has the weakest roster in the NFL and stands almost no chance of making the playoffs this year. Two players at key positions that could potentially be traded include edge rusher Joshua Uche and cornerback Jonathan Jones. Both are in the final year of their contracts and could likely be available for a Day 3 draft pick. On the other hand, it would not be entirely surprising if the Patriots decided to acquire a low-tier offensive tackle, especially considering their struggles and injuries in that area, along with the need to protect rookie Drake Maye. They can pursue left tackle depth without necessarily being aggressive buyers. — Chad Graff
GO DEEPER
NFL Week 8 odds, schedule: Chiefs should stay undefeated, plus potential rookie battle
The Saints have faced a staggering 60-10 deficit over the last six quarters, leading to concerns that the defense has given up under coach Dennis Allen. Having lost five straight games, the last two in particularly dire circumstances, it might be the right moment to start parting ways with some players. A straightforward option could be defensive end Chase Young. He is on a one-year contract, and there’s little doubt that multiple teams in the NFL could benefit from a pass rusher. The Lions, for instance, just lost a key pass rusher to injury in Aidan Hutchinson and have head coach and defensive coordinator with previous connections to the Saints. — Larry Holder
Sunday marked a new low for the Giants this season as Saquon Barkley returned with a vengeance against his former team, helping the Eagles to a 28-3 victory. Compounding the situation, they benched quarterback Daniel Jones. In an attempt to “ignite the team,” head coach Brian Daboll has inadvertently fostered uncertainty at the quarterback position despite pledging support for Jones moving forward. Given this, the team appears unlikely to reach the playoffs, particularly with a prime-time game against Pittsburgh scheduled for next Monday. If the Giants aim to gather assets for the offseason, wide receiver Darius Slayton, a dependable veteran, may be a viable trade candidate. — Charlotte Carroll
The Jets should consider selling off some assets. However, owner Woody Johnson seems determined to pour money into solving the Jets’ issues — as evidenced by the Davante Adams trade and convincing Haason Reddick to end his holdout with a financial incentive — which have not yielded favorable results. Johnson has committed fully to this being an all-in year, and until he refrains from making such aggressive decisions, it seems unlikely he will change course. The Jets still have glaring needs on their defensive line and are also feeling the impact of injuries in the secondary. Nevertheless, they should eventually come to terms with their reality. With a 2-5 record and a 40-year-old quarterback performing like one, the team appears to lack the energy needed to turn the season around. Wide receiver Mike Williams is likely on the brink of departure in the next few days or weeks, and perhaps others will follow suit before the trade deadline. — Zack Rosenblatt
The Eagles made significant moves in free agency, landing Saquon Barkley, who has become central to a talent-rich offense that has occasionally struggled in the first quarter, possibly prompting the front office to explore adding more dynamic players. The recent loss of left tackle Jordan Mailata to injured reserve with a hamstring injury also raises concerns about the need for additional depth on the offensive line. Meanwhile, a relatively young defense may simply require more time to gel. GM Howie Roseman has dedicated resources to strengthen the team’s future prospects.
The initial two selections were made on players who are currently starting in the secondary. The Eagles have triumphed against struggling teams during two weeks of defensive play without touchdowns, and throughout their 13 sacks in that period, free agent acquisition Bryce Huff recorded his first full sack. This year, Josh Sweat’s contract is set to expire. The expectations for this season are considerably high. Will the Eagles utilize their draft assets to acquire another edge rusher, ensuring their pass rush remains formidable? — Brooks Kubena
As the New York Jets exited the field on Sunday in Pittsburgh, Steelers fans shouted to receiver Mike Williams, “See you in a Steelers uniform next week.” It’s evident that Pittsburgh is in need of a receiver, and everyone is aware of it. Following GM Omar Khan’s trade of former Pro Bowler Diontae Johnson this offseason, the WR2 position has become a significant topic of discussion. Pittsburgh was heavily engaged in the Brandon Aiyuk situation and has recently expressed interest in Davante Adams. However, they still require a more dynamic player to support George Pickens. Whether it’s a major move like acquiring DeAndre Hopkins or Adam Thielen, or a smaller adjustment to bolster depth, the Steelers will be active in the market. — Mike DeFabo
The 49ers, who previously executed a couple of trades for defensive ends last year, may be seeking another defensive lineman this season. This comes after losing Javon Hargrave (triceps) for the remainder of the year, along with the likely absence of Yetur Gross-Matos (knee) for several more weeks. Their depth at defensive end is particularly shallow. Beyond Nick Bosa and Leonard Floyd, the only available edge players are the inexperienced Robert Beal Jr. and Sam Okuayinonu. They are also paying close attention to the snap count of the 32-year-old Floyd. Another potential area for improvement is running back. Although Christian McCaffrey seems ready to return after the Week 9 bye, should his recovery encounter any setbacks, trading for a former 49er like Raheem Mostert or Jeff Wilson Jr. would be a logical move. — Matt Barrows
The Seahawks are currently an average team aiming for greatness by January. To achieve this, they traded away a Day 3 pick in 2026 to enhance their defensive line depth by acquiring Roy Robertson-Harris. Better health in their secondary and at right tackle could pave the way for a late-season surge. Additionally, acquiring a player for the second level of the defense could be beneficial. While expecting an offensive line upgrade during the season may be unrealistic, if a team seeking assets decides to offload talent from its back seven, Seattle could strengthen a group that has been inconsistent, even when healthy. — Michael-Shawn Dugar
Throughout the first six weeks of the season, the Bucs have been one of the top teams in the NFC. However, to achieve their goals, they must overcome the Falcons, who scored 36 points in a loss that went to overtime for the Bucs. The defense can rely on returning players from early injuries to help propel the team as the season progresses. If GM Jason Licht can acquire an edge rusher or cornerback at a reasonable price, it could boost both performance and morale. At the very least, the Bucs should be exploring their options. — Dan Pompei
The rationale for retaining DeAndre Hopkins and his expiring contract lies in the season’s focus on developing Will Levis and assessing his capabilities. How is the young quarterback expected to thrive without his key target? The issue is that the Titans have already learned quite a bit, all negative, and trading Hopkins for a middle-round pick would be sensible at this juncture. Other low-cost veterans like Quandre Diggs and Arden Key could also be under consideration. Would this front office contemplate a more substantial move for a larger return, such as Jeffery Simmons or Harold Landry? Given their current losing streak and the evident impatience from owner Amy Adams Strunk, that may be too ambitious. — Joe Rexrode
Hear me out, as there are some caveats to consider. First, the strategy entering the 2024 offseason was oriented towards sustained competitiveness rather than a quick fix. This approach shouldn’t shift with picks in rounds 1-4, despite the unexpected winning record and the dynamic performance of Jayden Daniels. Washington is not just one player away from entering the league’s elite ranks, particularly on the defensive side, and has numerous long-term gaps to fill. Now, here are the caveats.
If GM Adam Peters identifies a young player who deserves a multi-year contract alongside valuable draft picks, it may be worth considering. This also holds true if the team stands at least 6-3 by the trade deadline, a scenario that could become more complicated with Daniels being “week-to-week” due to a rib injury. If there’s a possibility of negotiating a deal with late-round picks—whether through a swap or direct exchange—for a veteran cornerback or additional defensive line depth, then discussions should commence. — Ben Standig
(Photo Illustration: Kelsea Petersen / The Athletic; Top photos of Chase Young, Adam Peters, DeAndre Hopkins, and Chris Ballard: Perry Knotts, Johnnie Izquierdo, and Kevin Cox / Getty Images / Washington Post via Getty Images)
