The Los Angeles Rams exemplify how the NFL trade block evolves from week to week.
A week ago, the Rams appeared to be sellers. However, after welcoming back Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp and securing an upset victory over the Minnesota Vikings, they improved to 3-4, leading one to wonder if they are still in sell mode. Yet, this situation could pivot again before the trade deadline next Tuesday.
With several struggling teams ahead of the deadline, the market is ripe for numerous sellers and buyers, promising a flurry of activity. Here are 10 trades that would greatly benefit the league:
49ers trade for Jets WR Davante Adams
In hindsight, trading for Davante Adams was misguided for the Jets. It was clear to all involved. They were reaching for something unattainable. Now, with the Jets sitting at a dismal 2-6, it’s crucial to reevaluate their strategy. Why not deal Adams to a team in dire need of his talents, such as the 49ers, who recently lost their No. 1 receiver, Brandon Aiyuk? While the 49ers have talent at receiver, Adams would certainly enhance their lineup. Provided that Aaron Rodgers permits the Jets to trade his friend, there’s no compelling reason for the Jets to retain him. Admittedly, the likelihood of a trade is slim since the Jets are currently a tumultuous organization, but it would make sense.
The Jets traded for Davante Adams, but haven’t won a game since. (AP Photo/Greg M. Cooper)
Lions trade for DE Chase Young
Let’s dismiss any unrealistic hopes of Maxx Crosby or Myles Garrett being traded. Although the Raiders and Browns may not be performing well, they will not part ways with their franchise players without an outrageous offer. Nonetheless, the Lions can pursue a more modest deal to fill the gap left by Aidan Hutchinson. Among several options, Young offers significant potential. While he’s not flawless, a healthy and motivated Young could serve as a productive pass rusher for a Super Bowl-contending team, reminiscent of his performance with the 49ers last season. And speaking of potential, let’s discuss the Saints.
Saints trade just about everyone
The Saints are in dire need of a complete overhaul. They’ve been trapped in a cycle of mediocrity and have faltered in their last six games. A rebuild is overdue. The roster is filled with veteran players who could contribute to a contender, including defensive end Chase Young, running back Alvin Kamara, linebacker Demario Davis, and possibly even defensive end Cam Jordan. However, the recent two-year extension given to Kamara signals that
The team with the most short-sighted approach in the NFL is likely to retain their veterans, a decision that would be undeniably foolish and entirely in line with the Saints’ usual tactics. At the very least, it would be wise to trade Young, who is currently on a one-year deal. We’ll see how this unfolds.
Vikings trade for Jaguars LT Cam Robinson
Finding offensive linemen for trade is a difficult task (even underperforming teams are reluctant to allow their QBs to be exposed to danger), but the Jaguars possess several players who could yield significant returns in a deal. Among the most discussed are tackle Cam Robinson, guard Brandon Scherff, and tackle Walker Little. Robinson is a logical target for the Vikings, especially after suffering a season-ending knee injury to left tackle Christian Darrisaw. The Seahawks should also consider contacting the Jaguars, as they are in need of linemen as well. Should the Jaguars opt to trade one or two linemen, interest from numerous teams is guaranteed.
Steelers trade for Jets WR Mike Williams
A rule exists preventing teams from trading back for a player they previously dealt away for two years, which eliminates the possibility of Diontae Johnson returning. However, there are other receivers available who could address the Steelers’ significant gap, particularly alongside George Pickens. Williams is dissatisfied with the Jets, and it doesn’t seem logical for them to retain him. He could provide the Steelers with an additional option.
Ravens trade for Rams CB Tre’Davious White
The Ravens are a strong team but face a significant challenge. They currently boast one of the worst pass defenses in the NFL. Baltimore has allowed a passer rating of 115.3, ranking second-worst in the league, better only than the Lions. The Ravens have given up an NFL-worst 291.4 passing yards per game, a figure that is 20 yards more than any other team. The Rams have confirmed that they have provided White, a former All-Pro with the Bills, permission to seek a trade. Although injuries have diminished much of White’s effectiveness, it might not require a hefty price for the Ravens to assess whether he can improve their struggling secondary.
Cowboys trade for Dolphins RB Raheem Mostert
The Cowboys’ season appears to be fading, yet they hold a modest 3-4 record. There is still an opportunity for recovery. While they aren’t going “all-in,” as was famously discussed earlier, no team is in greater need of a running back than Dallas. They passed on acquiring Derrick Henry, citing affordability issues, and their frugality at the position is becoming evident. Ideally, Alvin Kamara would be a target for the Cowboys; however, the Saints’ decision to extend Kamara’s contract suggests they will retain him for whatever misguided reasoning. Mostert, being 32 and affordable enough for Jerry Jones, could be a fitting acquisition, while the Dolphins should be focusing on rookie Jaylen Wright. Furthermore, the 2-5 Dolphins shouldn’t be hanging onto a 32-year-old running back at this point.
Chiefs trade for Patriots CB Jonathan Jones
The veteran cornerback is in the final year of his contract, and the Patriots might not benefit from keeping older players. The Chiefs find themselves in a tight spot at cornerback, a notable weakness in their defense. It would have been logical for the Chiefs and Patriots to explore including Jones in the trade when Josh Uche was sent to Kansas City. Even so, such a move would still be advantageous for both teams.
Falcons acquire Browns DE Za’Darius Smith
The Falcons recently traded for Matthew Judon but remain near the bottom of the NFL with only 15 sacks. A further trade might be beneficial. Smith has notched five sacks this season, and with the Browns currently at 2-6, they should not be convincing themselves that they are contenders for the playoffs. Adding Smith could bolster a Falcons team that appears to be on track to clinch the NFC South after defeating the Buccaneers twice.
Chargers acquire Panthers WR Adam Thielen
The Chargers sit at 4-3 and are in the playoff conversation. However, they possess one of the shallowest receiving corps in the NFL. Rookie Ladd McConkey has performed well, but Joshua Palmer has been underwhelming, and Quentin Johnston has seen a decline following an initially promising start. Thielen could serve as a temporary solution to support Justin Herbert. The Panthers likely won’t demand much for a 34-year-old who has had a subdued season, and this trade would offer Thielen an opportunity to contribute to a competitive team in the latter stages of his career.
Ten High-Impact NFL Trades That Could Transform the League Before the Deadline
The NFL trade deadline is one of the most exciting times of the year for fans and teams alike. With potential blockbuster trades on the horizon, teams are gearing up to make moves that could significantly alter the landscape of the league. Here are ten high-impact NFL trades that could transform the league before the deadline.
1. Derek Carr to the New York Jets
With the Jets struggling at quarterback, a trade for Derek Carr could rejuvenate their offense. Carr has a proven track record and could help the Jets contend in a competitive AFC East.
Benefits:
- Increased offensive production
- Leadership experience
- Familiarity with playoff contention
2. Davante Adams to the Green Bay Packers
A reunion between Davante Adams and the Packers could provide a much-needed boost to Green Bay’s receiving corps. Adams has been a standout player and could reinvigorate Aaron Rodgers’ performance.
Case Study:
Look at how the return of Randy Moss to the New England Patriots transformed their offense in 2007. The chemistry between Adams and Rodgers could replicate that success.
3. Saquon Barkley to the Buffalo Bills
Adding Saquon Barkley to the Buffalo Bills’ arsenal could elevate their already potent offense. A dynamic running back like Barkley would complement Josh Allen and create mismatches for defenses.
First-Hand Experience:
As a Bills fan, the excitement around adding a dual-threat running back is palpable. Barkley’s ability to receive out of the backfield adds another level to the offense.
4. Tua Tagovailoa to the Washington Commanders
With uncertainty surrounding the Commanders’ quarterback situation, acquiring Tua Tagovailoa could provide a fresh start. His dual-threat capabilities could enhance Washington’s offense.
Benefits:
- Young talent with upside
- Ability to stretch the field
- Increased fan excitement
5. Mike Evans to the New England Patriots
With the Patriots in dire need of receiving talent, trading for Mike Evans could provide Mac Jones with a reliable target. Evans’ size and experience would greatly benefit the struggling offense.
6. Nick Chubb to the Kansas City Chiefs
Imagine Nick Chubb in the Chiefs’ high-octane offense. Chubb’s ability to run between the tackles and catch passes could take Kansas City to the next level.
Advantages of This Trade:
- Balanced offensive attack
- Increased time of possession
- Improved red-zone efficiency
7. Jalen Ramsey to the San Francisco 49ers
Trading for Jalen Ramsey could bolster the 49ers’ already formidable defense. A cornerback of Ramsey’s caliber could turn San Francisco into a defensive juggernaut.
Key Stats:
| Player | Tackles | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|
| Jalen Ramsey | 45 | 3 |
| 2023 NFL Average | 35 | 1 |
8. A.J. Brown to the Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins could significantly upgrade their receiving corps with a trade for A.J. Brown. Pairing him with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle would create one of the most explosive offenses in the league.
Practical Tips:
Monitor the Dolphins’ cap space and draft picks to assess the feasibility of this trade. They could package a future first-round pick to make it happen.
9. Za’Darius Smith to the Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles are in need of defensive line help, and acquiring Za’Darius Smith could be the solution. His ability to pressure the quarterback would enhance Philadelphia’s already strong defense.
Benefits:
- Increased sack potential
- Depth on the defensive line
- Leadership in the locker room
10. Justin Fields to the Minnesota Vikings
Bringing Justin Fields to the Vikings could provide them with a franchise quarterback. As a mobile quarterback, Fields would add a new dimension to an offense led by Justin Jefferson.
Potential Impact:
Fields’ mobility could extend plays and open up the playbook for the Vikings, making them a serious contender in the NFC.
Conclusion
These potential trades could reshape the NFL landscape as teams look to enhance their rosters. With the trade deadline fast approaching, it’s crucial for fans and analysts alike to keep an eye on these high-impact moves that could change the fortunes of franchises.
