NFL trade deadline grades: Ravens, Falcons, Chiefs and others evaluated

Analyst Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz gave the Baltimore Ravens a grade of C after they traded left guard Ryan Neuzil to the Atlanta Falcons. The move reunites Neuzil with offensive line coach Dwayne Ledford, but adds an expiring contract to a team projected to miss the playoffs.

The Falcons also received a C grade. General manager Ian Cunningham and former quarterback Matt Ryan opted not to re-sign Neuzil, relying on center Corey Levin despite concerns about quarterback Michael Penix Jr.'s protection needs.

The Kansas City Chiefs earned a B+ for acquiring receiver Josh Downs from the Indianapolis Colts. The addition gives Kansas City a reliable man-coverage defender and addresses a lack of playmaking on the perimeter.

The Colts were graded B for trading Downs, securing value rather than retaining a player who had requested a trade.

The Denver Broncos received a B for adding linebacker Daiyan Henley, a fourth-year player who improves coverage depth on the defensive second level. The Los Angeles Chargers earned a B- for the same acquisition, though the team's overall performance was criticized.

The Minnesota Vikings were given an A for trading for quarterback Kirk Cousins, citing his familiarity with the offense and potential to improve the passing attack alongside wide receiver Justin Jefferson.

The Las Vegas Raiders received a B- for the trade, which yielded a draft pick near the compensatory range.

The Buffalo Bills earned a B- for acquiring safety Amani Hooker from the Jacksonville Jaguars, noting the cost of second- and fifth-round picks but emphasizing the need to strengthen a vulnerable defense.

The Jacksonville Jaguars were graded B+ for the deal, reflecting a willingness to trade assets to accelerate a rebuild.

The San Francisco 49ers received a B- for signing wide receiver Keenan Allen from the Colts for a sixth-round pick, a cost-effective move given existing depth at receiver.

The Indianapolis Colts were given a B+ for moving Allen, extracting value while focusing on larger roster priorities.