The NFL trade deadline is always a whirlwind of activity, with contenders pushing for playoff spots and struggling teams building for the future. As the 2023 NFL trade deadline (October 31) approaches, here’s a comprehensive look at what every team could do—from perfect fits to trade candidates and pressing needs.
AFC Contenders: Key Needs and Trade Targets
Kansas City Chiefs
- Big Need: WR depth, secondary help
- Perfect Fit: Jerry Jeudy (Broncos) – A dynamic route-runner who could thrive with Patrick Mahomes.
- Trade Candidate: Chiefs may move a mid-round pick for a veteran cornerback.
Buffalo Bills
- Big Need: Pass rush, run defense
- Perfect Fit: Montez Sweat or Chase Young (Commanders) – Either would boost Buffalo’s playoff push.
Miami Dolphins
- Big Need: O-line depth, linebacker
- Sneaky Target: Zach Cunningham (Eagles) – A solid run-stopper.
Baltimore Ravens
- Big Need: Cornerback
- Dream Scenario: Patrick Surtain II (Broncos) – A long shot but transformative.
Cincinnati Bengals
- Big Need: Offensive line
- Potential Fix: Ezra Cleveland (Vikings) – Immediate starter at guard.
NFC Teams Primed for Big Moves
Philadelphia Eagles
- Big Need: Edge rusher
- Perfect Fit: Brian Burns (Panthers) or Danielle Hunter (Vikings).
San Francisco 49ers
- Big Need: WR depth after Deebo Samuel’s injury
- Low-Cost Option: Hunter Renfrow (Raiders).
Detroit Lions
- Big Need: Cornerback
- Ideal Target: Jaylon Johnson (Bears).
Dallas Cowboys
- Big Need: Power RB
- Blockbuster Idea: Derrick Henry (Titans) – A Jerry Jones special?
Teams Likely Sellers: Top Trade Candidates
Denver Broncos (1-5)
- Trade Chips: Jerry Jeudy, Courtland Sutton, Patrick Surtain II.
Chicago Bears
- Trade Chips: Jaylon Johnson, Darnell Mooney, Eddie Jackson.
Arizona Cardinals
- Trade Chips: Marquise Brown, Budda Baker.
Carolina Panthers
- Trade Chips: Brian Burns, Derrick Brown.
Tennessee Titans
- Top Candidate: Derrick Henry – Contenders like the Bills or Ravens could bid.
Sleeper Teams That Could Shake Things Up
New York Jets
- If Rodgers Returns: Could chase Davante Adams (Raiders) or O-line help.
Las Vegas Raiders
- If They Sell: Adams and Josh Jacobs would draw heavy interest.
Minnesota Vikings
- If Playoff Hopes Fade: Danielle Hunter and Kirk Cousins (if he waives no-trade clause).
New England Patriots
- Wild Card: Could Mac Jones be traded? Or will they add a WR like Jeudy?
Final Predictions
This year’s deadline could be one of the most active ever, with big names like Derrick Henry, Brian Burns, and Jerry Jeudy potentially changing teams. Contenders like the Eagles, Chiefs, and Bills will be aggressive, while the Broncos, Bears, and Cardinals may sell for draft capital.
Who will make the biggest splash? Stay tuned for updates!
