As the NFL trade deadline approaches on November 5, the excitement around potential player movements continues to build. With several notable wide receivers already traded, including DeAndre Hopkins, Davante Adams, and Amari Cooper, the question now is: who might be next?
The league extended the trade period this season to allow teams extra time to evaluate their rosters and strategize their moves, whether that means acquiring new talent or letting go of existing players. The demand for star wide receivers has been evident, catalyzed by the recent trades that have shaken up the league.
The New York Jets kicked things off by acquiring Davante Adams, reuniting him with quarterback Aaron Rodgers. However, their first outing together since 2021 didn’t go as planned, with Adams managing just three receptions on nine targets, contributing to a 37-15 defeat against Pittsburgh.
Amari Cooper has transitioned smoothly from his previous stint in Cleveland to Buffalo, quickly establishing chemistry with quarterback Josh Allen. In a commanding 34-10 victory over Tennessee, he made a significant impact with four catches totaling 66 yards and a touchdown.
In a bold move, the Kansas City Chiefs added DeAndre Hopkins from the Titans, enhancing their offensive capabilities alongside star tight end Travis Kelce. This acquisition is crucial for the Chiefs as they deal with injuries to key players, including Rashee Rice, who’s out for the season, and Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, who has been sidelined since the season opener.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid praised Hopkins, highlighting his extensive experience over 12 seasons and ability to create mismatches on the field. His versatility and expertise in navigating defensive coverage will be invaluable to the team moving forward.
Looking beyond the recently traded players, several high-profile athletes are still in the spotlight as the deadline nears. One of those players is Cooper Kupp of the Los Angeles Rams. Despite being a Super Bowl MVP, Kupp has struggled with injuries, missing 17 games in the past 2.5 seasons. He recently returned to action in a victory against Minnesota, snagging five passes for 51 yards and a touchdown. With the Rams still in contention within the NFC West, they may hesitate to part with such an important player.
Another name generating buzz is Tee Higgins from the Cincinnati Bengals. At only 25, Higgins is playing under a franchise tag and could fetch significant compensation if traded. With Ja’Marr Chase poised for a lucrative contract, Cincinnati may consider moving Higgins, despite their need to support quarterback Joe Burrow with top-tier talent.
Maxx Crosby, a three-time Pro Bowl edge rusher for the Las Vegas Raiders, has also made headlines. While trading him may not seem logical for the franchise, Crosby recently expressed his desire to win rather than rebuild. At just 27 years old, he’s signed for two more seasons. A substantial trade package would be necessary for the Raiders to consider such a move, which could aid them in their quest for a franchise quarterback.
Budd Baker, a six-time Pro Bowl safety, has spent his entire career with the Arizona Cardinals but is set to become a free agent soon. The Cardinals have decided against extending his contract, and as they vie for wins in a competitive division, trading Baker for draft capital might be a strategic choice.
Lastly, Miles Sanders of the Carolina Panthers is another player who could be on the move. Once a standout with the Eagles, Sanders has struggled to replicate his past performance since joining Carolina. With the Panthers embarking on a rebuilding phase at 1-6, acquiring additional draft picks could be beneficial for their future.
The coming days promise to add more intrigue to the NFL landscape as teams weigh their options in the lead-up to the trade deadline.