Speculative NFL Trade Deadline Scenarios Highlight Potential Moves for 2026
A column outlines a series of imagined trades for the 2026 NFL deadline, suggesting how teams could address roster needs and improve competitiveness.
The piece presents a series of hypothetical trade scenarios for the 2026 NFL deadline, focusing on how teams might strengthen key positions. One suggestion pairs defensive end Maxx Crosby with the New York Giants, noting his ability to pressure quarterbacks and stop the run, and proposes including defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux to balance the deal. Another scenario envisions running back Saquon Barkley joining the Cincinnati Bengals to complement Chase Brown and provide a versatile check-down option for quarterback Joe Burrow.
The article also proposes moving guard Landon Dickerson to Green Bay, where his versatility could help a Packers offense that ranks low in average drive time. A trade of quarterback Spencer Rattler to Cleveland is suggested as a backup option for the Browns, who currently rely on Deshaun Watson but face concerns about depth and injury history. Tight end Tyler Warren is floated to Kansas City to add blocking and receiving flexibility for a Chiefs run game that lacks movable pieces.
Additional ideas include sending quarterback Mac Jones to Philadelphia as a bridge player for the Eagles, while Jimmy Garoppolo returns to San Francisco as a backup for Brock Purdy. A move of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to Minnesota is presented as a way for the Vikings to improve a struggling offense, and defensive tackle Moro Ojomo could join Minnesota to add depth to a defensive line already strong under coordinator Kevin O'Connell. Finally, the column suggests defensive tackle Daron Payne to Jacksonville and wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. to Miami, each addressing specific needs for the Jaguars and Dolphins respectively.