NFL Trade Deadline Approaches: Key Players and Potential Moves
As the 2024 NFL regular season reaches its sixth week, teams are beginning to assess their rosters and make critical decisions ahead of the trade deadline. With the deadline set for 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, November 5, the landscape of the league could shift dramatically as teams look to bolster their squads for a playoff push or offload players for future assets. Here’s a look at some intriguing trade proposals that could reshape the NFL landscape.
1. Trey Lance to the Miami Dolphins
Potential Compensation: Conditional 2025 fifth-round pick
With Tua Tagovailoa’s concussion history raising concerns, the Miami Dolphins may want to consider adding depth at quarterback. Trey Lance, once a highly touted first-round pick, has been relegated to the bench in Dallas. Under the guidance of head coach Mike McDaniel, who previously worked with Lance in San Francisco, this move could serve as a low-risk, high-reward insurance policy for Miami. Lance’s athleticism and potential could be a valuable asset if Tagovailoa’s health becomes a concern.
2. Dameon Pierce to the Minnesota Vikings
Potential Compensation: 2025 fifth-round pick
The Minnesota Vikings are in need of backfield depth, especially with Aaron Jones recovering from a hip injury. Dameon Pierce has seen inconsistent usage in Houston, making him a candidate for a trade. His combination of size, speed, and power would complement Jones well, providing the Vikings with a more balanced attack. This move could also help keep quarterback Sam Darnold comfortable as he navigates the season.
3. Davante Adams to the New York Jets
Note: The Raiders have agreed to trade Adams to the Jets after publication.
This trade has been a hot topic for weeks, and it finally appears to be coming to fruition. Reuniting Davante Adams with his former Green Bay Packers teammate Aaron Rodgers could reignite the Jets’ offense. Despite the Jets’ struggles this season, Adams’ presence could help stabilize the situation and provide a much-needed spark. The chemistry between Adams and Rodgers is undeniable, and this move could be the key to turning around the Jets’ season.
4. Amari Cooper to the Kansas City Chiefs
Potential Compensation: 2025 fourth-round pick
The Kansas City Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, have shown they can succeed with a variety of receivers. However, adding a polished route-runner like Amari Cooper could enhance their offensive capabilities. Cooper has been underutilized in Cleveland, and a change of scenery could rejuvenate his career. He could serve as a reliable target for Mahomes, reminiscent of what Jeremy Maclin provided during his time with the Chiefs.
5. DeAndre Hopkins to the Buffalo Bills
Potential Compensation: 2025 fifth-round pick
DeAndre Hopkins was expected to be a key player for the Tennessee Titans, but with the team struggling at 1-4, it may be time to consider trading him. The Buffalo Bills could benefit from adding a veteran presence to their receiving corps, especially as they navigate a season with a rookie leading the charge. Hopkins’ experience and playmaking ability could be crucial for the Bills as they aim for a deep playoff run.
6. Adam Thielen to the Pittsburgh Steelers
Potential Compensation: 2025 fifth-round pick
The Pittsburgh Steelers have been exploring options for wide receiver upgrades, and Adam Thielen could be a viable target. At 34, Thielen may not have the same explosive ability he once did, but he remains a reliable possession receiver. His experience and sure hands would complement the more dynamic George Pickens, providing the Steelers with a balanced receiving threat as they look to improve their offensive output.
7. Von Miller to the Philadelphia Eagles
Potential Compensation: Conditional 2025 third-round pick
The Philadelphia Eagles have been searching for ways to enhance their pass rush, and adding Von Miller could be a game-changer. Despite his age, Miller has a proven track record and a history with defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. His experience and leadership could help revitalize the Eagles’ defensive front, making them a more formidable opponent as they aim for a playoff berth.
8. Za’Darius Smith to the Detroit Lions
Potential Compensation: 2025 fifth-round pick
With the Cleveland Browns struggling at 1-5, they may look to offload some of their defensive talent, including Za’Darius Smith. The Detroit Lions, who are in need of edge-rushing help following an injury to star Aidan Hutchinson, could benefit from Smith’s experience and skill set. This trade would bolster the Lions’ defense as they seek to make a serious run in the NFC.
9. Jonathan Jones to the Washington Commanders
Potential Compensation: 2025 sixth-round pick
As the New England Patriots enter a rebuilding phase, cornerback Jonathan Jones could be a valuable trade asset. His experience and solid play could provide a boost to the Washington Commanders’ secondary, which has struggled at times this season. Adding Jones could help Washington solidify its defense as they aim for a playoff spot.
10. Budda Baker to the Houston Texans
Potential Compensation: 2025 fourth-round pick
Budda Baker has been a standout safety when healthy, but with the Arizona Cardinals struggling, he may be on the move. The Houston Texans, dealing with injuries in their secondary, could benefit from Baker’s presence. As a rental for the remainder of the season, Baker could help the Texans make a push for the playoffs, adding depth and experience to their defense.
As the trade deadline approaches, these potential moves could significantly impact the fortunes of various teams across the league. Whether teams are looking to make a playoff push or rebuild for the future, the next few weeks will be crucial in shaping the 2024 NFL season.