The NFL trade deadline is approaching fast, and with it comes the potential for blockbuster deals that could reshape teams' fortunes—imagine your favorite squad suddenly gaining a superstar or shedding salary to build for the future. But here's where it gets controversial: are teams prioritizing short-term wins over long-term loyalty, or is this just smart business in a cutthroat league? As we dive into the excitement, let's explore eight standout players who might be packing their bags before the November 4 deadline at 4 p.m. ET. With less than a month to go, this is the window for playoff hopefuls to make bold moves and rebuilding franchises to stockpile draft picks. Last season saw a flurry of 18 trades involving seven former Pro Bowlers from the start of the regular season to the deadline. This year, we've already witnessed seven deals, including some juicy swaps this week—like the Chargers and Ravens exchanging defenders (with Osa Odighizuwa and Alohi Gilman changing teams), the Browns and Jaguars trading cornerbacks (Tyson Campbell and Greg Newsome switching sides), and Joe Flacco continuing his AFC North journey from the Bengals to the Browns. Now, contenders can create waves, while others focus on future assets. Keeping that in mind, here are eight notable trade candidates poised for potential movement in the weeks ahead. And this is the part most people miss: these trades aren't just about talent—they could spark debates on player loyalty and team rebuilding strategies.
Rank 1: Trey Hendrickson, Edge Rusher, Cincinnati Bengals The Bengals recently acquired a new quarterback in Joe Flacco, signaling they're not ready to concede the 2025 season. That said, they might still entertain offers for Hendrickson, who is playing out a revised one-year deal worth $29 million. As in previous years, he's been the standout on Cincinnati's defense, topping the team with four sacks. Despite his four-time Pro Bowler status leading the charge, the Bengals' defense is struggling, ranking 30th in points allowed per game (31.2) and total yards allowed (391.2). A playoff spot seems unlikely, and it's evident Hendrickson isn't in their long-term vision. Why not trade him for draft capital before he becomes a free agent? Teams like Detroit, New England, Dallas, and San Francisco—especially after losing Nick Bosa for the season—desperately need pass-rush help and could make a compelling offer. But here's where it gets controversial: Is it fair to trade a player who's giving everything on the field, or should loyalty trump business decisions?
Rank 2: Alvin Kamara, Running Back, New Orleans Saints Kamara is leading the Saints with 283 rushing yards and 360 scrimmage yards, serving as the backbone of their offense since joining in 2017. He's spent his entire nine-year career with the team and, after restructuring his contract in 2024 for two years at $24.5 million, expressed a desire to retire as a Saint. I get the sentiment—it would feel strange seeing him in another uniform, but great players have switched teams before. New Orleans could manage without him using third-year pro Kendre Miller and sixth-round rookie Devin Neal in the backfield, and the team needs to transition away from veterans like Cameron Jordan, Demario Davis, and Taysom Hill. Trading Kamara could free up cap space in 2026 and provide value, especially with running backs facing numerous injuries league-wide, making him a top target for multiple squads. And this is the part most people miss: Could this move rejuvenate the Saints, or would it break the hearts of loyal fans?
Rank 3: David Njoku, Tight End, Cleveland Browns With third-round rookie tight end Harold Fannin Jr. stepping up right away, the signs point to a shift for this experienced player. The Browns are embracing youth, featuring newcomers like quarterback Dillon Gabriel, running back Quinshon Judkins, and Fannin on offense. While Njoku remains valuable—ranking second on the team with 20 receptions and 195 receiving yards—he seems dispensable in a rebuilding unit. His salary isn't burdensome, thanks to a max restructure in 2023 that caps his 2025 base at $1.255 million. As a 2026 free agent, he could provide a reliable, big-bodied target for teams needing receiving depth, perhaps as a third or fourth option. But here's where it gets controversial: In an era of youth movements, is it time to move on from veterans like Njoku, or do they still hold untapped potential?
Rank 4: Mark Andrews, Tight End, Baltimore Ravens The Ravens' tight end future lies with Isaiah Likely, who returned from a foot injury and is poised for an extension beyond his expiring rookie deal. Meanwhile, Andrews has seen a gradual decline and might benefit from a fresh start after last season's challenges, with Likely taking on a larger role. Like Njoku, Andrews offers experience and red-zone prowess, holding the Ravens' record for receiving touchdowns (53). Rumors swirled around him last offseason, and now seems the perfect moment to trade him. And this is the part most people miss: Could Andrews thrive elsewhere, or is his best football behind him?
Rank T-5: Bradley Chubb, Edge Rusher, Miami Dolphins Rank T-5: Jaelen Phillips, Edge Rusher, Miami Dolphins Chubb and Phillips anchor Miami's defensive line, but their situations differ. Chubb, turning 30 next summer with two years left on his deal (no guarantees), missed all of 2024 due to a torn ACL and leads the Dolphins with four sacks. Phillips, 26 and on his fifth-year option, has battled injuries over three years and has one sack. The 1-4 Dolphins are off to a rough start, with their defense allowing 29 points per game (27th in the NFL) and 386.6 yards (29th). Miami needs cap relief, and as noted, many teams seek pass-rush upgrades. For context, think of how a trade like this could mirror past deals where teams shed veterans to rebuild—similar to how the Dolphins might aim to emulate successful franchises that pivoted quickly. But here's where it gets controversial: Should aging stars like Chubb be traded for youth, even if they're still producing?
Rank 7: Kayvon Thibodeaux, Edge Rusher, New York Giants The Giants boast a formidable defensive front with Brian Burns, Abdul Carter, and Thibodeaux all logging over 69% of snaps. Thibodeaux is shining with 2.5 sacks (second to Burns' league-leading seven) and 20 QB pressures via Next Gen Stats. However, with Burns as the leader and Carter as a high-pick rookie with huge potential, Thibodeaux might be the one to go. New York exercised his fifth-year option for 2026, but that doesn't rule out a trade. To clarify for beginners, edge rushers like these are crucial for pressuring quarterbacks, and Thibodeaux's stats show he's a force, yet team depth could make him expendable. And this is the part most people miss: In a loaded front, is Thibodeaux undervalued, or is he just surplus talent?
Rank 8: Jameis Winston, Quarterback, New York Giants We've seen a veteran QB like Joe Flacco traded out of necessity in Cincinnati. While some might prefer Russell Wilson or Kirk Cousins, those could cost more than Winston for comparable results. As the Giants' third-string QB, inactive all six games, Winston went 2-5 starting for the Browns in 2024 with 13 TDs, 12 INTs, and an 80.6 passer rating in 12 appearances. He might not lead a deep playoff run, but he could bridge a game or two for QB-starved teams. For example, imagine a team like the Giants using him as a low-risk backup, freeing up resources elsewhere. But here's where it gets controversial: Is Winston a savvy pickup for depth, or a risky gamble on a player with a checkered past?
As the deadline nears, these potential trades highlight the NFL's dynamic nature—where loyalty meets strategy. What do you think: Should teams prioritize winning now or invest in the future? Do you agree with trading stars like Kamara or Hendrickson, or is it a betrayal? Share your thoughts in the comments—let's debate!
