NFL teams are nearing the end of a critical opportunity to enhance their rosters as they gear up for a potential playoff push.
With the Chiefs holding an impressive 8-0 record, followed by the Bills at 7-2, Ravens at 6-3, and Jets struggling at 3-6, several franchises have already made significant additions, particularly at the wide receiver position, over the past month.
The Vikings addressed a crucial need on their offensive line last week, while the Cardinals bolstered their defense with a recent acquisition.
The trade deadline looms at 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, prompting expectations for more roster changes across the league.
Notable players rumored to be on the trade block include Raiders’ star edge rusher Maxx Crosby, Saints’ four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore, and Browns’ three-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Za’Darius Smith.
The Lions, who currently sit at 7-1, are particularly in search of a pass rusher due to the injury of Aidan Hutchinson. Other teams that may also be looking to add pressure on quarterbacks include the Falcons, Broncos, and Vikings.
On the other hand, teams like the Texans, Packers, Rams, and Seahawks may be eyeing additional depth for their offensive line.
Struggling teams are typically the ones looking to sell talent, and numerous organizations find themselves in that position with nine teams having secured only two victories thus far this season.
The Kansas City Chiefs, last year’s two-time defending Super Bowl champions, remain active in the trade market. They have recently acquired three-time All-Pro receiver D’Andre Hopkins and edge rusher Josh Esche.
In a thrilling Monday night matchup against Tampa Bay, Hopkins made a notable impact with eight receptions for 86 yards and two touchdowns during his second game with quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
Likewise, the Jets pulled off a significant acquisition when they brought in three-time All-Pro Davante Adams three weeks ago. He showcased his skills with seven catches for 91 yards and one touchdown in New York’s 21-13 victory against Houston last Thursday.
Amari Cooper also made an impressive start with Buffalo, scoring a touchdown in his first game two weeks prior, while Diontae Johnson played 17 snaps in his debut for Baltimore, contributing to a 41-10 win against Denver.
In Minnesota, left tackle Cam Robinson performed admirably in the team’s 21-13 victory over Indianapolis. Meanwhile, Arizona traded for outside linebacker Baron Browning from Denver for a sixth-round draft pick, a day after ascending to the top of the NFC West standings.
This year, the NFL has extended the trade deadline by an additional week, giving teams more opportunity to refine their lineups.
“The shift isn’t as drastic as I initially thought,” remarked Washington Commanders coach Dan Quinn. “What I see is teams fiercely competing, given the league’s design of parity. It’s crucial for teams to consider roster adjustments that could bring value.”
However, facilitating a trade requires the agreement of both teams involved. Lions general manager Brad Holmes has been diligently attempting to navigate potential transactions as the deadline approaches.
“I wouldn’t say it’s solely in our hands. Brad is actively pursuing options, making numerous calls,” stated Lions coach Dan Campbell. “Time is running out, and we’re eager to see what we can achieve before the deadline.”