NFL Trades: A Whirlwind Offseason

The NFL offseason is already heating up, and it’s not waiting for the official start of the new league year. Following the scouting combine, we’ve witnessed a flurry of trades, contract restructures, and player releases. Notable moves include the impending release of Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (saving Arizona $19.5 million) and the trade of Patriots receiver Stefon Diggs. The Kansas City Chiefs have traded cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Rams for valuable draft picks, while also planning to release right tackle Jawaan Taylor – significant changes for the reigning champions as Patrick Mahomes recovers from his ACL tear.

The Texans have also been active, trading tackle Tytus Howard to Cleveland and acquiring running back David Montgomery from Detroit. If recent activity is any indication, this offseason promises to be a wild ride. With a relatively weak free agent market and draft class, teams with needs and cap space will need to get creative to add talent.

Players to Watch in the Trade Market

Here’s a breakdown of 23 players who could be traded in the coming weeks, ranging from superstars seeking a change of scenery to quarterbacks in limbo and veterans with tradable contracts.

Quarterbacks

Tua Tagovailoa (Miami Dolphins)

Don’t expect a quick deal for Tagovailoa. Concerns about his concussion history and recent performance make him a difficult trade target. While his 2026 salary is guaranteed, Miami could spread the cap hit by trading him after June 1, potentially finding him a new home and initiating a multiyear rebuild. However, finding a team willing to pay him as a starter or even a high-priced backup will be challenging.

Sam Jones (San Francisco 49ers)

Jones proved to be a capable replacement for Brock Purdy last season, excelling with a clean pocket and easy throws. While replicating that success on a new team without Kyle Shanahan and key offensive weapons is uncertain, he demonstrated the ability to execute a well-designed offense. The Jets and Steelers appear to be the most likely suitors, with New York having the urgency and draft capital to meet San Francisco’s demands. A second-round pick could be enough to secure his services.

Anthony Richardson (Indianapolis Colts)

Richardson possesses immense raw power, but his accuracy and consistency need development. Granted the freedom to seek a trade, he’d likely benefit from landing with a team like the Bills, Packers, or Ravens, where he can serve as a backup and refine his skills. A trade value of a sixth-round pick seems realistic.

Nathan McKee (Philadelphia Eagles)

McKee shows promise but lacks extensive regular-season experience. He’d thrive in an offense that emphasizes quick passes and avoids prolonged pocket time. Arizona or Minnesota could be potential landing spots if they miss out on other quarterback options. Philadelphia might seek a conditional fourth-round pick, potentially upgrading to a third if McKee starts and signs an extension.

Jalen Rattler (Various)

Rattler, still developing, offers potential as a rookie-timeline passer. Teams like the Steelers, Colts, or Vikings could view him as a competition spark.

Other Notable Players

Carson Carr (New Orleans Saints)

A return to form seems unlikely for Carr, who will be 35 and coming off injuries. A trade would likely involve a late-round pick swap and a restructured contract.

A.J. Brown (Philadelphia Eagles)

Trading Brown would accelerate $20 million onto Philadelphia’s cap and add $43 million in dead cap charges. However, with a savvy GM like Howie Roseman, a trade isn’t off the table. A first-round pick, plus additional draft capital, would likely be required. Kansas City, with its surplus of picks, could be a potential suitor.

Maxx Crosby (Las Vegas Raiders)

The longtime Raiders pass rusher is a highly coveted asset, under contract through his age-32 season with no guaranteed money beyond 2026. The Patriots and Ravens should be in contention for his services.

Michael Pittman Jr. (Indianapolis Colts)

The Colts may trade Pittman to create cap space. He’s a productive receiver who could be a valuable addition to teams like the Bears.

Darnell Moore (Chicago Bears)

The Bears may restructure or trade Moore to free up cap space. Teams like the Patriots, Titans, Chargers, and Rams could be interested.

Cole Kmet (Chicago Bears)

With the emergence of Colston Loveland, Kmet’s role has diminished. The Bears could trade him for a pair of day-three draft picks.

Brandon Aiyuk (San Francisco 49ers)

A reunion with Jayden Daniels in Washington seems logical. The Commanders need a receiver, and Aiyuk needs a fresh start. His health and the willingness of both sides to negotiate will be key.

Kevin Baker (Arizona Cardinals)

Baker, a durable and reliable safety, could be a worthwhile investment for a contending team. The Patriots and 49ers should inquire about his availability.

Eddie Edmunds (Chicago Bears)

Edmunds’ $17.9 million cap hit makes him a trade candidate. The Cardinals or Bengals could be interested.

Danielle Greenard (Minnesota Vikings)

Greenard’s future with the Vikings is uncertain due to their cap situation. The Chargers and Patriots could be potential suitors.

Gary (Green Bay Packers)

Gary hasn’t lived up to his extension and the Packers may consider trading him to recoup draft capital.

Chauncey Clark (Dallas Cowboys)

Clark’s impact on the Cowboys’ run defense has been minimal, making him a potential trade candidate.

Josh Thibodeaux (New York Giants)

Thibodeaux hasn’t blossomed into the star edge rusher many expected. Contenders like the Chargers, Ravens, Bills, and Patriots could be interested.

DaRon Payne (Carolina Panthers)

The Panthers may trade Payne to free up cap space.

Jalen Ramsey & Kyle Fitzpatrick (Various)

A potential trade between these two players could benefit both teams.

Stay tuned for further updates as the NFL trade season unfolds!

Source: ESPN