NFL trade deadline approaches as analysts list 16 players likely to move
With the NFL trade deadline on Nov. 10, a USA Today analysis highlights sixteen players who could become trade targets, ranging from quarterbacks to pass rushers.
The NFL trade deadline is set for Nov. 10, and teams are expected to make moves to either improve for the remainder of the season or begin rebuilding. ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that the Los Angeles Chargers have not discussed trading quarterback Justin Herbert, despite the player’s contract being trade-eligible and carrying a $50 million cap hit.
The article identifies sixteen players who could be logical acquisition targets before the deadline. Among them are Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens and cornerback Joey Porter Jr., both of whom could be moved if the Cowboys seek to acquire draft picks. Arizona Cardinals outside linebacker Josh Sweat, currently in the second year of a four-year, $76.4 million deal, is highlighted as a potential piece for a team looking to strengthen its pass rush.
Los Angeles Chargers veteran linebacker Khalil Mack, 35, is noted for his continued production and year-to-year contract status, making him a possible short-term acquisition. Washington Commanders linebacker K'Lavon Chaisson, with a modest base salary, could be an affordable pass-rusher option if the Commanders decide to sell.
Other players mentioned include Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt, Tennessee Titans running back Tony Pollard, Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, and Colts running back Jonathan Taylor, each described with their contract situations and potential trade value.
Wide receivers Jerry Jeudy (Cleveland Browns) and Chris Godwin (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) are also listed, as are defensive linemen Vita Vea and Yaya Diaby. The analysis notes that the Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins, on a one-year deal, could become a target if the Raiders’ performance declines, and that the Raiders’ defensive end Maxx Crosby remains a high-priced pass-rusher.
Finally, Arizona Cardinals quarterback Gardner Minshew II is mentioned as a possible backup-quarterback option for teams facing a sudden need at the position.
"We have never even discussed that idea. The sentence 'Should we trade Justin Herbert?' has never once been uttered in our organization, nor will it be," a Chargers source told Schefter.
The list reflects a mix of players with expiring contracts, modest salaries, or high market value, suggesting that teams will weigh both immediate needs and future draft considerations as the deadline approaches.