NFL Trade Deadline Shakeup: Big Names on the Move as Teams Make Bold Midseason Deals
As the 2024 NFL season approaches its midway point, the trade market is heating up, with several blockbuster moves already shaking up the league landscape.
With the trade deadline pushed back to November 5th this year, teams have more time to wheel and deal as they look to bolster their rosters for playoff pushes or stockpile draft capital for the future.
Two major trades have already gone down, sending shockwaves through the NFL. The New York Jets acquired star wide receiver Davante Adams from the Las Vegas Raiders, reuniting him with quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Not to be outdone, the Buffalo Bills landed wideout Amari Cooper in a deal with the Cleveland Browns. These moves indicate that contenders are making significant investments, while struggling teams are focusing on the future.
But the dealing may be far from over. Several other big names could be on the move before the deadline passes. Here are some intriguing players who may find themselves with new teams in the coming weeks:
Cooper Kupp, WR, Los Angeles Rams
The former Offensive Player of the Year has battled injuries but remains one of the league’s top receivers when healthy. With the Rams struggling at 1-4, they could look to flip Kupp to a contender for draft picks to kickstart a rebuild.
Trey Lance, QB, Dallas Cowboys
Dallas has kept the former first-round pick on the bench. A team such as the Miami Dolphins could consider Lance’s potential as a backup for the injury-prone Tua Tagovailoa.
DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Tennessee Titans
At 32, Hopkins isn’t in the Titans’ long-term plans as they sit at 1-4. The Kansas City Chiefs could use another weapon and may come calling for the veteran pass-catcher.
Budda Baker, S., Arizona Cardinals
One of the league’s top safeties, Baker, briefly requested a trade in the offseason. With Arizona struggling, they may look to deal the 27-year-old for draft compensation.
Von Miller, OLB, Buffalo Bills
Despite his suspension until Week 8, the veteran pass rusher could spark a contender in the final stretch. The Philadelphia Eagles are always aggressive and could make a play for Miller.
Za’Darius Smith, DE, Cleveland Browns
At 1-5, the Browns are likely sellers. Smith is 32 but can still get after the quarterback. The Detroit Lions need pass rush help and could come calling.
Adam Thielen, WR, Carolina Panthers
The steady veteran doesn’t fit Carolina’s rebuild timeline. A team like the Pittsburgh Steelers could use Thielen’s reliable hands in their offense.
Jonathan Jones, CB, New England Patriots
The Pats, currently in rebuild mode, might consider trading for the 30-year-old corner. The Washington Commanders need secondary help as they push for the playoffs.
These potential deals highlight how the trade deadline has become a key part of the NFL calendar. In the past, midseason trades were rare. Now, we regularly witness contenders making aggressive moves to establish their dominance.
Several factors drive the shift. The salary cap keeps rising, giving teams more flexibility. Analytics have made draft pick values clearer, allowing for fairer trades. And the extra wildcard spot gives more teams hope of a playoff run.
For struggling teams, the trade deadline is a chance to pivot to the future. By dealing veterans for draft capital, they can jumpstart a rebuild. The Browns already started this process by trading Cooper. More moves could follow as they look ahead to 2025.
On the flip side, contenders see a golden opportunity to upgrade weak spots on their roster. The Bills hope Cooper can spark their passing game. The Jets are betting that reuniting Adams and Rodgers can save their season.
As the November 5th deadline approaches, expect the rumors and speculation to intensify. While not every big name will be dealt, we’re likely to see more splashy moves that could shift the balance of power in the NFL. Fans are anticipating an exciting time as teams invest heavily in 2024 or prepare for the future.
The flurry of activity proves that in today’s NFL, the action off the field can be just as compelling as the games themselves. So buckle up and stay tuned—the next big trade could reshape the playoff picture in an instant.