For some NFL players, a change in environment can lead to improved performance and opportunities. A notable example is Sam Darnold, the 2018 No. 3 overall pick, who rebounded last season after moving to the Minnesota Vikings. Darnold transitioned from being viewed as a draft bust to garnering MVP votes and earning his first Pro Bowl bid. His success is one of many cases in which players have revitalized their careers with a different team, and Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Zack Baun serves as another illustration from the 2024 season. As training camps begin and the regular season approaches, several veterans still linked to their previous clubs may stand to gain from a trade or change of scenery. The focus here rests on younger individuals who possess potential yet may find themselves buried on their team’s depth chart, along with one veteran who might see little playing time this fall.

Kayshon Boutte, once considered a promising prospect, has experienced ups and downs throughout his NFL journey. Following a stellar sophomore season at LSU, where he averaged nearly 85 yards per game and scored nine touchdowns, expectations for Boutte were high. However, production waned in his junior year, and off-field issues, including allegations of gambling and fraud, led to his fall to the sixth round of the 2023 draft. His rookie year with the New England Patriots was modest, totaling just two catches for 19 yards. Nevertheless, Boutte rebounded in the 2024 season, achieving 43 receptions for 589 yards and three touchdowns. Unfortunately for him, the Patriots have introduced a new coaching staff and signed notable wide receivers, creating a crowded depth chart. With strong competition and the need for improvement in the team, a trade might serve both Boutte and New England well, especially as the roster needs attentiveness to fill some gaps.

Another player to consider is Kirk Cousins, the veteran quarterback who finds himself in a precarious position on the Atlanta Falcons' depth chart. Following an unprecedented year filled with challenges, including a season marred by a torn Achilles and a league-high 16 interceptions, Cousins is still seeking his opportunity to start. The decision of the Falcons to name Michael Penix Jr. as their starter diminishes Cousins’ potential with the team. Although teams often seek trade opportunities for quarterbacks, the market for a 36-year-old with a less-than-stellar recent performance may be limited. Still, this four-time Pro Bowler deserves a chance to showcase his abilities, and a change of scenery could provide the opportunity he needs.

Sam Williams is a promising defensive presence for the Dallas Cowboys, boasting 8.5 sacks over two seasons. However, his opportunities have been limited as he has primarily served as a backup, even though his pass-rushing efficiency has been commendable. Expectations were high for Williams heading into 2024, especially with changes within the defensive lineup following the departures of key players. Unfortunately, a torn ACL and MCL at the start of training camp prevented him from capitalizing on those expectations last year. Now that he is healthy, Williams faces potential challenges in regaining his spot with Dallas, particularly with the addition of other players during the offseason. With his contract year approaching, demonstrating starting ability elsewhere may be advantageous for his career prospects.

JuJu Brents presents an intriguing case as a cornerback prospect with notable physical attributes, including an impressive height and length. Drafted in the second round by the Indianapolis Colts, expectations were high for the 25-year-old. However, recurring injuries have hindered his ability to contribute regularly, having missed 23 games over the last two seasons. The Colts' decision to enhance their cornerback lineup by signing Charvarius Ward and drafting Justin Walley complicates Brents' path to playing time. While he contests for a starting spot in training camp, his chances may be better served with a different team experiencing a need for cornerback talent.

Bralen Trice emerged as a noteworthy edge prospect following his productive tenure at Washington, boasting significant skills that were expected to translate into the NFL. Regrettably, his rookie season with the Atlanta Falcons came to an abrupt end after only one preseason game due to a torn ACL. While the expectation exists for a healthy Trice to rebound, the Falcons have heavily bolstered their pass-rushing capabilities with significant acquisitions, making it difficult for him to find playing time. Given the depth at his position, pursuing a fresh start elsewhere could afford Trice the opportunity to thrive within a more suitable scheme.

Meanwhile, Felix Anudike-Uzomah was drafted in the first round by the Kansas City Chiefs, underlining his reputation as a top pass-rusher in the 2023 draft. Despite his accolades, Anudike-Uzomah has struggled to make an impact, tallying only three sacks in his first two NFL seasons. The Chiefs' recent contract extensions for key defensive players complicate his situation further, indicating that he may not be part of their long-term plans. A change of scenery could serve as a conducive environment for Anudike-Uzomah to realize his potential and contribute effectively.