The NFL trade deadline is just around the corner on November 5 at 4 p.m. ET, and the action is already heating up! Front offices across the league are dialing up deals, hoping to land the one player (or a few!) who can tip the scales in their favor—or stockpile assets to gear up for a bright future. We’ve already seen some wild moves, like DeAndre Hopkins joining the Chiefs, Davante Adams reuniting with Aaron Rodgers on the Jets, and Amari Cooper heading to Buffalo. And the rumor mill says we’re far from done.
So, what does every team need to do before the deadline? We’ve broken it down into three groups: Buyers who are pushing for a playoff spot, Sellers ready to reload for next season, and Holders who might just sit tight and let things play out.
Let’s dive into what each squad could be planning—and what they should do to come out of this NFL trade deadline in the best shape possible.
Buyers
These teams have the pieces in place to make the playoffs and maybe even go all the way. The deadline presents an opportunity to fine-tune the roster for the postseason.
Detroit Lions
The Lions look like a team poised to make a deep playoff run, with strong roster depth across the board. However, they suffered a major setback after losing defensive standout Aidan Hutchinson for the year. To fill this void, Detroit could use a pass rusher to bolster the defense, helping them make a Super Bowl push.
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens have been consistent contenders this season, though their recent loss to the Browns exposed a critical weakness—they’re giving up a league-high 291.4 passing yards per game. Adding an impact defensive back to their secondary could shore up their defense and solidify Baltimore as an AFC powerhouse.
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Green Bay Packers
The Packers have quietly become a dark horse in the NFC North, winning six of their last seven games. Despite an injury to Jordan Love, they’re hanging tough in the playoff hunt. An addition to their defensive backfield could keep the Packers competitive in the division.
San Francisco 49ers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Both the 49ers and Buccaneers have been plagued by injuries to key offensive players. Brandon Aiyuk’s season-ending injury has left San Francisco’s receiving room thin, while Tampa Bay is missing Chris Godwin. Adding another pass-catcher for each team could be a difference-maker, especially in close divisional races.
Houston Texans
The Texans’ once-deep receiving core is now one of the league’s thinnest. With Nico Collins still on IR and Stefon Diggs sidelined with a knee injury, Houston may need to bring in a receiver to stay competitive in the playoff chase.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers have been eyeing a top receiver for months, and with their 6-2 record placing them atop the AFC North, the timing couldn’t be better. Adding a reliable wide receiver could give Russell Wilson and Justin Fields the extra firepower they need to stay competitive.
Los Angeles Chargers
Sitting at 4-3, the Chargers are in the hunt but have been limited by a lack of depth at receiver. If they can find a dependable target for Justin Herbert, they’ll have a legitimate shot at a wild-card spot.
Philadelphia Eagles and Cincinnati Bengals
The Eagles and Bengals each stumbled out of the gate, but Philly (5-2) and Cincinnati (3-5) are back in the mix for a playoff spot. Both teams are in their Super Bowl windows, so investing in their rosters at the NFL Trade deadline makes sense for a postseason run.
Washington Commanders, Atlanta Falcons, and Seattle Seahawks
Washington and Atlanta currently lead their divisions, while Seattle is tied for first in the NFC West. Washington could benefit from receiver and secondary depth, while Atlanta needs pass-rushing help. Seattle, having already traded for linebacker Ernest Jones IV, may look to reinforce the offensive line.
Also Read: Which 5 Detroit Lions Players Could Be Traded?
Sellers
These teams are out of playoff contention and should prioritize collecting assets for future seasons.
Carolina Panthers, New England Patriots, and New York Giants
With just two wins apiece, these teams should focus on rebuilding. The Panthers and Giants haven’t offloaded players yet, but they have receivers (like Diontae Johnson, K.J. Osborn, and Darius Slayton) who could draw interest from contenders. The Patriots have already moved pieces, including Josh Uche, and could continue to sell.
Tennessee Titans and Cleveland Browns
Both teams have already begun their selling phase, with Tennessee trading DeAndre Hopkins and Cleveland parting ways with Amari Cooper. Continuing to offload players who aren’t part of their long-term plans could help them acquire valuable assets for a future rebuild.
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders have been disappointing this season, and trading away Davante Adams signals that they’re shifting focus. Moving more players now could position Las Vegas for a more successful future.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville’s season has been riddled with injuries, including a season-ending one to wideout Christian Kirk, who had been a potential trade chip. At 2-6, the Jaguars may need to initiate a mini-rebuild and capitalize on assets they won’t need for the future.
Also Read: Who Are The Top NFL Trade Targets For Each Position?
Holders
These teams are still developing or too close to playoff contention to consider drastic moves, but also not quite ready to make a big buy.
Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings have defied expectations with a 5-2 start and are in line for a playoff spot. However, with limited draft capital—just a first-rounder and two fifth-round picks in 2025—Minnesota should be cautious. Minor moves using Day 3 picks could help, but they should avoid high-risk trades.
Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills
Kansas City and Buffalo have already made significant moves by adding DeAndre Hopkins and Amari Cooper, respectively. Both teams may stand pat, having addressed their biggest need at receiver. However, the Chiefs could still consider a smaller deal for a pass rusher.
New York Jets
The Jets’ acquisition of Davante Adams might be their only big move this season. Given their current standing and Aaron Rodgers’ age, they should preserve future assets, especially with a potential coaching change looming.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys invested heavily in extensions for Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb but haven’t met expectations. With mounting injuries, Dallas may be better off focusing on health than making additional trades.
Los Angeles Rams
The Rams are back in the hunt with a 3-4 record and key players Cooper Kupp and Puca Nakua returning. Rather than making moves, Los Angeles could allow their current roster to gel and push for the playoffs.
Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins should see improvement with Tua Tagovailoa back under center. Given their solid defense, Miami may only need Tagovailoa to stabilize the offense rather than bringing in outside help.
Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals, while competitive, are still under .500. With limited needs that could be addressed at the deadline, Arizona should stand pat unless an undeniable long-term trade presents itself.
Denver Broncos and Indianapolis Colts
The Broncos and Colts are both early in the development of their young quarterbacks. Both teams could use another season of internal growth, opting out of deadline deals unless a perfect long-term fit appears.
Chicago Bears
The Bears have built well around rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, who’s shown flashes of star power. Patience is key here—letting Williams develop with his current roster could be the best long-term strategy.
New Orleans Saints
New Orleans has grappled with injuries in both the receiver and quarterback rooms, and a six-game losing streak has damaged their playoff hopes. Rather than trading, the Saints may be best served by focusing on player health.
Also Read: What Are The Three Targets For The Buffalo Bills Ahead Of The 2024 NFL Trade Deadline?
