Introduction

As the thrill of Wild-Card Weekend fades and teams transition into the 2026 offseason, the excitement surrounding potential player movements grows. While free agency and the NFL Draft are traditional avenues for teams to enhance their rosters, blockbuster trades can dramatically shift the balance of power in the league. This offseason is poised for significant changes as speculation mounts about which players may be on the move. Following the crowning of the next Super Bowl champion, the trade buzz will heat up even further. Here, we predict some trades that could reshape the NFL landscape.

Washington Commanders Eye Maxx Crosby

The Washington Commanders could make a splash by acquiring edge rusher Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders. Despite signing a three-year, $106 million extension last offseason, reports suggest Crosby's relationship with the Raiders has soured following a knee injury that sidelined him for the final weeks of the season. The Commanders, armed with approximately $89.8 million in salary cap space, could offer Las Vegas a package that includes their 2026 first-round pick (No. 7 overall) and additional picks.

This move would bolster the Commanders' defense under new head coach Dan Quinn, giving them the marquee pass-rusher to improve their formidable defense. The Raiders would have the opportunity to rebuild their roster, capitalizing on Crosby’s value to potentially secure both a quarterback and a foundational prospect with the picks received in return.

Jets Set to Bring in Tua Tagovailoa

The New York Jets may also engage in an intriguing offseason trade by acquiring quarterback Tua Tagovailoa from the Miami Dolphins. With the potential selection of quarterback Dante Moore in the 2026 Draft still uncertain, the Jets could use a veteran presence in the quarterback room. Tagovailoa's experience as a starter (44-32) could provide stability as the Jets navigate their season.

This move serves a dual purpose; it allows the Jets to bolster their roster immediately while also helping the Dolphins unload Tagovailoa's contract. With the Jets enjoying significant cap space of $93.7 million, they are in a position to compensate the Dolphins for the trade and potentially attract a young quarterback in the draft or develop Moore further.

Patriots Look to Acquire A.J. Brown

The New England Patriots are eyeing a possibility to trade for wide receiver A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles in order to revamp their offense. After experiencing a mixed season with the Eagles, Brown has been vocal about his frustrations, indicating that a trade could be on the horizon. The Patriots hold the advantage with 11 draft picks and $54 million in cap space, making them an attractive trade partner for the Eagles.

Integrating Brown into their passing game alongside their rookie quarterback, Drake Maye, could prove vital in strengthening their offense and increasing competition within the AFC. This trade could signal a shift in power within the AFC East as both the Patriots and Bills vie for supremacy.

Buffalo Bills to Acquire Brandon Aiyuk

In a closely-related move, the Buffalo Bills should consider acquiring WR Brandon Aiyuk from the San Francisco 49ers. With the potential to lose out in the bidding war for A.J. Brown, the Bills may seek Aiyuk as an alternative. Having voided Aiyuk’s 2026 guarantees, the 49ers may be open to negotiations, and the Bills might be able to use their resources effectively to secure this trade.

Aiyuk has shown the potential to be an elite receiver when healthy, and given the Bills' need for a standout option, securing him could invigorate their offense following this season's performance.

Pittsburgh Steelers Eye Kyler Murray

The Pittsburgh Steelers seem set to make a bold move by targeting Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray. With limited options in the draft and a weak quarterback class, trading for Murray might be one of their best strategies. With discussions about his future expected this offseason, Pittsburgh could land a proven signal-caller who has shown the capability to perform at a high level.

Murray's earlier struggles could mean he might be available for a reasonable price, and the Steelers could benefit significantly from adding him to their team, particularly if they aim to remain competitive in the AFC North.

Rams Targeting Trent McDuffie

As the Los Angeles Rams continue their playoff push, they are likely to make moves to strengthen their secondary. Targeting cornerback Trent McDuffie from the Kansas City Chiefs could be a game-changer for the Rams. The ongoing need for a shutdown corner has become apparent, especially after their Wild-Card Weekend performance.

The Rams' general manager Les Snead has a history of trading for talent, and McDuffie could become a cornerstone for their defense moving forward, coupled with a lucrative new deal that could adjust cornerback market dynamics.

Conclusion

The NFL offseason promises to be entertaining and transformative as teams look to make bold moves that will reshape their rosters. With the potential trades discussed here, the league's dynamics could shift dramatically, impacting the prospects of numerous franchises. As fan bases hold their breath, the countdown to the offseason promises to bring excitement, speculation, and perhaps surprises as team executives get to work on the roster adjustments necessary to compete in the 2026 season.