The trade deadline is just a couple of weeks away, and before we know it, all 32 rosters will be locked for the year. In the next couple of weeks, contenders will look to add a missing piece while those at the bottom of the league look to unload assets and rebuild. This article will give a dream move for all 32 teams or a recommendation for what they should (or shouldn’t) do.
All contract details in this article came from Spotrac.
Arizona Cardinals – Look to Trade Budda Baker
The Cardinals have no chance in a stacked NFC West, and right now, they have more questions than answers. It’s hard to say whether they will have the same coach or QB next year, and their division isn’t getting any easier. They probably aren’t in a position to compete for a Super Bowl in the next couple of years, and Budda Baker makes a ton of money. Realistically, they probably won’t part with their best player on defense hastily. But if they were looking to free up space for a rebuild around a new quarterback or coaching regime, moving Baker would be the path forward.
Atlanta Falcons – Look to Deal Kirk Cousins if a QB Goes Down
The Falcons have showed some pretty great play lately, on both sides of the ball. While Michael Penix had one horrendous game against the Panthers, it seems to have been an outlier. Their offense looks pretty good around a sensational year from Bijan Robinson. If a top QB gets injured, and a contender comes knocking for Kirk Cousins, the Falcons could be in a position to deal him. This isn’t a high priority move or one that’s very likely, but if he opportunity rings, it would be a slam dunk for the Falcons.
Baltimore Ravens – Deal Mark Andrews or Kyle Van Noy
The Ravens aren’t mathematically eliminated yet, but a few more losses and their season would essentially be over. Mark Andrews’ contract is up at the end of the year anyway, so the trade return wouldn’t be great. But if they need to clear a little bit of cap space and move past a player who made a catastrophic playoff mistake, dealing Andrews could help them re-tool for when Lamar returns to full health and the Ravens try to put this year from hell behind them. Kyle Van Noy likely has only a year or two left in the NFL anyway, so letting him spend them on a contender would be nice of Baltimore.
Buffalo Bills – Add Safety Help
The Bills are contenders every year that Josh Allen is their signal-caller. We all trust that he will be able to sort out any offensive woes. But the Bills’ run defense is the second-worst in the league, and Bijan Robinson exposed that on national television for us all. For the Bills to make a serious run this year, they will need to beef up the defense. The biggest problem is that their safeties have struggled tackling, and haven’t been great in coverage either, allowing the 7th most yards per play. They could add the aforementioned Budda Baker, since the Patriots aren’t likely to trade Kyle Dugger within the division.
Carolina Panthers – Stay Conservative, Continue to Build
The Panthers have shown flashes, but it’s still hard to say exactly who they are. They’re just below league average in most categories, though they have excelled as a rushing team. But for a team that took a big swing (and potentially a miss) on Bryce Young, taking a conservative approach to their rebuild is probably the best move. They’re not one player away, but nor should they let any talent leave their building unless they absolutely have to. This year is a chance to assess whether Bryce Young and Dave Canales are the long-term answer, and who is the young core you can build your team around.
Chicago Bears – All Good!
Surprisingly, the Bears’ roster is solid, and they look to compete for the playoffs this year. Caleb’s play still leaves something to be desired, but they already have everything well stacked on that side of the ball. Their defense also looks solid, and they’re currently on a winning streak. Ben Johnson is building a strong foundation in Chicago; there’s no reason to muddy the waters by shaking up the locker room.
Cincinnati Bengals – Deal Trey Hendrickson
Cincinnati should have made this move in the offseason, but now that they’ve lost another year to Joe Burrow’s health, it’s time to do it now. They’ve clearly shown that they can’t spare the money for the monster contract Hendrickson deserves, so they might as well extract some value from him while they can. Their defense is still bad, but if they can’t pay Trey, they should get some value back from the team that will pay him next year. Tons of contenders could be looking for more pass rush, like the Chiefs, the Bills, the Eagles, or the 49ers. The Bengals could look to get some draft capital in return for their star pass rusher to reload their defense for Burrow’s return in 2026.
Cleveland Browns – Unload David Njoku
The Browns are still rebuilding from the disastrous Deshaun Watson deal, and it’s unclear whether they have found their QB of the future. Their defense is great and locking down Myles Garrett guarantees that will remain the case. However, clearing up Njoku’s $24 million cap hit to help cushion the Watson contract fallout could be a great move. Njoku is a really solid tight end, and if a playoff team wants to add a great pass catcher and blocker before Thanksgiving, the Browns should be happy to make it happen.
Dallas Cowboys – Trade for Pass Rush
The Cowboys moved on from Micah Parsons, and their defense has been terrible so far this year, literally worst in the league. Their offense, meanwhile, is playing lights out, with Dak Prescott a genuine MVP candidate. If they want to replace Parsons’ impact and try to make a run this year with Dak playing as well as he is, making a move at the deadline could help. The Maxx Crosby rumors have already been shut down by the Raiders, but Trey Hendrickson may be available, and the Cowboys would be prudent to beef up their pass rush. While Donovan Ezeiraku looks promising, Sam Williams and Solomon Thomas still haven’t flashed too much.
Denver Broncos – Stand Pat
The Broncos already have one of the best rosters in the league, and they certainly believe they are a Super Bowl contender. Their defense is one of the best in the league, and their offense has certainly shown high-level capability even if it’s been a bit inconsistent. There’s no reason for them to make a move, nor will they want to get rid of any of their players. Really not much to say, the Broncos are ready and rearing to go to try to make a 2025 run.
Detroit Lions – Add Secondary Depth
The Lions’ backup secondary had a very impressive showing against the Buccaneers, but the cluster of injuries in that area could end up costing them as we get to the playoffs. Adding Kyle Duggers, who the Patriots benched at the start of the year, could be a great option for Detroit. However, they have clearly done a good job coaching up backups, so perhaps they will just wait for their health to recover and stick with their guys.
Green Bay Packers – Add a Veteran with Playoff Experience
The Packers already took their big swing for Micah Parsons during the offseason. They are an extremely talented roster and have what they need to compete. However, they are also the youngest roster in the NFL, and adding a savvy veteran who has been there and done that could be valuable. Perhaps Calais Campbell becomes available from Arizona, or Kyle Dugger could provide depth and experience for their defense. Ultimately, the Packers are already well-positioned to contend, but perhaps a small move could put them even more over the edge.
Houston Texans – Unload Danielle Hunter
The Texans’ offense is horrendous this year, and their season is likely already over. They desperately need help along the offensive front, and every possible drop of draft capital needs to go towards that problem. Danielle Hunter is a key piece of their incredible defense, but Will Anderson Jr. has officially emerged and is an absolute stud. The Texans could perhaps sacrifice a bit of their front 7 to be able to create more push on the offensive line next year.
Indianapolis Colts – Keep Balling
There’s not much to talk about here; the Colts are rolling, and there are no clear holes in their roster. Keep balling and get ready to make a playoff run.
Jacksonville Jaguars – Grab A Pass Rusher From Miami
James Gladstone comes from the Les Snead “eff them picks” school, and the Jags could look to go all in to capitalize on a great start from their defense. While they have been winning the turnover battle, their pass rush has yet to produce at a high level, with only half a sack for Josh Hines-Allen and injury hampering Travon Walker. They could look to grab either Bradley Chubb or Jaelen Phillips from their neighbors in Miami, who are in an absolute tailspin.
Kansas City Chiefs – Save Jermaine Johnson from the Jets
The Jets are an absolute disaster this year, and the Chiefs are the opposite, a perennial contender and one of the best run teams in the league. The Jets have plenty of talent on the roster, but are the worst run team in the league, in an absolute tailspin. The Chiefs seem to be searching for a defensive lineman, and Jermaine Johnson could be a great fit. He seems to be going through it in New York, and Chiefs media is clearly interested. The Chiefs aren’t currently interested in running backs, but if they do become so, Breece Hall would be another perfect fit.
Las Vegas Raiders – Clean House
The Raiders season is obviously over, and they look like a team in a rebuild. It’s Pete Carrol’s first year, and this trade deadline is a chance for him to reshape the team in his image and lay down the foundations of a long term plan. Maxx Crosby seems to be off the table, but there are still some talented guys who could be trade targets for other teams. Jakobi Meyers is in the final year of his contract and could be on the trading block. Michael Mayer has been largely replaced by Brock Bowers and has only one year left on his rookie deal. Ultimately, the Raiders should look at every possible option to gain draft capital and rebuild their team for the future.
Los Angeles Chargers – Get Healthy!
The Chargers roster already has everything it needs to compete. Losing Rashawn Slater for the year was a huge blow, and Joe Alt struggling with his health on top of that has been problematic for their offense. But ultimately, if their health improves, this team will be fine. They are still right there at the top of their division, and they have shown the ability to play really good football. Stay focused, get healthy, and finish strong down the stretch.
Los Angeles Rams – Get Stronger in the Secondary
The Rams are coming off an impressive 35-7 win in London, and the offense rolled even without star receiver Puka Nacua. But on the defensive side, they have struggled in the secondary. If runs pass their defensive front, their corners are too small to control them. They can also lose out on tough 1-on-1 matchup due to their lack of size. It’s unlikely that a top corner becomes available, and Budda Baker won’t be traded in division. Perhaps they can acquire Kyle Dugger, or even architect a trade for a corner like Michael Carter to beef up their secondary. That would patch up their only major weakness as they look to make anothe deep playoff run in the tail end of the Stafford era.
Miami Dolphins – Clean House
I mean this in every sense of the word. The Dolphins are an absolute disaster, and after losing 31-6 to the Browns, no change is too extreme. They will undoubtedly have a new coaching staff and GM, and perhaps even a new quarterback. Any possible trade or transaction should be on the board here. If they can get more draft capital for their rebuild without shedding core players, they should take the opportunity. There will undoubtedly be interest in both of their star pass rushers Bradley Chubb and Jaelen Phillips. Devon Achane could also attract interest. The Dolphins are a mess that has to be cleaned up, and if contenders want to pick their cupboard, Miami should let them.
Minnesota Vikings – Add Devon Achane
There are still a lot of questions around JJ McCarthy, but the Vikings have already bet the farm on him. The absolute best thing they can do for him is create an awesome run game to take the pressure off. Aaron Jones has just returned from IR, and who knows how he’ll look in his return. The Vikings only have 623 rushing yards on the year, while Jonathan Taylor has 697 himself. No expense should be spared when it comes to making things as easy as possible for your future franchise QB, and if the Vikings can bring in an excellent running back like Achane, they should do so.
New England Patriots – Get Some Value for Kyle Dugger
A lot of folks were left scratching their heads when the Patriots benched Kyle Dugger and appeared to be done with him. It’s not entirely clear why they made that call, but given that fact, they should now try to secure some value in return for Dugger. He’s only 29 and is a talented safety. If they could deal him to a team in need of secondary help, like the Rams, they could get more resources to find more players they do like.
New Orleans Saints – Clear Out Cap Space
The Saints’ cap situation is a running joke, and this year, they are paying almost $100 million to players not currently on their team. Obviously, this isn’t a problem that can be solved overnight, and the rebuild will be a lengthy and challenging process. If the Saints can unload expensive contracts, they should do so. Perhaps a team wants a veteran like Demario Davis added to their defense, or Juwan Johnson or Chris Olave to augment their offense. The Saints should be taking any calls to reduce their cap commitments and start their rebuild in earnest.
New York Giants – Find a New Weapon for Jaxson Dart
The Giants are building something, and the 2025 Draft Class seems to have been a slam dunk. It’s unclear how safe Brian Daboll’s job is, so he may take a big swing to try to save it. If he does, expect the Giants to target another weapon for Jaxson Dart, such as Juwan Johnson or Jakobi Meyers. If they can beef up their weapons for 2025, get a few wins under their belt, suddenly they start to look pretty scary in 2026 with the return of Malik Nabers. Look for the Giants to call about pass catchers before the deadline.
New York Jets – Trade Breece Hall, Jermaine Johnson, and Others
In unsurprising news, the Jets are an absolute mess yet again. They’re the only team left without a win, and they may have a one-and-done coach on their hands. Teams will be calling about their talented players. Rumors are already swirling around Breece Hall and Jermaine Johnson, with the Chiefs and Bears among teams making calls. The Jets should entertain calls on just about anyone as they look to rebuild their team yet again.
Philadelphia Eagles – Add Pass Rush
Brandon Graham is reportedly returning to the Eagles. That may help fix their almost league-worst pass rush, but it might not be enough. Philly will be another team looking into whatever pass rushers are available at the deadline. We all know Howie Roseman’s propensity for making deals, so don’t be surprised if we hear Jermaine Johnson, Danielle Hunter, or Kyle Van Noy are coming to Philly.
Pittsburgh Steelers – Add Some Speed at WR
The Steelers probably weren’t expecting to be in early control of the NFC North. The Ravens and Bengals have both had years from hell, and the Steelers are in a position to attack this division. Aaron Rodgers has been playing well, but their offense is fairly one-dimensional. They have a lot of big bodies who can win one-on-ones, but not a lot of speed to stretch the field. Look for them to seek out a speedy receiver like Chris Olave or Jakobi Meyers if they think 2025 is the year for them to make a deep run.
San Francisco 49ers – Get Healthy
Another year, another crazy spate of injuries for the San Francisco 49ers. Despite it all, they have a respectable 5-2 record and hav played well. They’re extremely dependent on Christian McCaffrey, and they desperately need Brandon Aiyuk, Ricky Pearsall, and Jauan Jennings to come back. They’re also decimated along the front seven, though Robert Saleh has done an admirable job with a young group. Ultimately, they’re already paying too much to players who aren’t healthy, and they don’t need to add more contracts, they just need to heal up.
Seattle Seahawks – Beef Up the Front Seven
The Seahawks are also doing very well at 5-2, and their defense has played very well recently. But you can never have too many good guys up front, and with Boye Mafe going down, they could look to upgrade in that area. However, they shouldn’t hamstring their flexibility or take on a bad contract to do so. They have a promising young team and will be fine even if they stand pat at the deadline.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers -Add to the Trenches
Tampa is another team that has lost some of its pass rush to injury, as well as cluster injuries to its offensive line. They could look to Tennessee for someone like Guard Kevin Zeitler, or to Miami for Bradley Chubb. They could also bank on their health improving and Baker continuing to play well, without having to stretch at the deadline.
Tennessee Titans – Fire Sale
The Titans yet again look like one of the worst teams in the league, and they’ve already doomed Cam Ward to having a brand new head coach in his second year. Now, it’s time to leave their roster as flexible as possible for a new regime. They could look to unload L’Jarius Snead, or some of their offensive line depth, or even their star lineman, Jeffrey Simmons, for the right price. But they are certainly not a team that is one or two players, or even one or two years, away from competing.
Washington Commanders – Re-do the Marshon Lattimore Move
The Commanders made a big deadline move last year in Marshon Lattimore, and a year later, it’s not looking so great. He’s had a couple of rough games in a row, with 7 penalties in 7 weeks. The Commanders could have the opportunity to make a similar move if they can nab CB Michael Carter for the Jets. Hopefully, he would fare better than Lattimore and take the pressure off Marshon. The NFC East is still wide open, and with their defense looking pretty middling, they could look to repeat what they did last year.
