Final Roster Cuts Looming in the NFL
As the NFL season approaches, teams are scrambling to finalize their 53-man rosters by the looming August 30 deadline. This period typically brings a flurry of activity, including cuts and trades, as coaching staffs streamline their squads. Notably, changes in offseason acquisitions and coaching staff have left some veterans out of favor, making them prime candidates for trade or release. With only a few preseason games left to showcase talent, coaches are weighing the options of giving players a chance to shine or protecting them from injury risks that could hinder trade prospects.
Players on the Trade Block
Among the players drawing attention in trade discussions are several who could benefit from new opportunities on different teams. Here’s a concise overview of players to watch:
Kayshon Boutte - New England Patriots
Kayshon Boutte displayed extraordinary potential in 2025, catching 33 passes for 551 yards and scoring six touchdowns, appearing in 67 percent of offensive snaps. However, following the Patriots' acquisition of Romeo Doubs and A.J. Brown, Boutte finds himself relegated to the No. 3 receiver spot at best. With tight end Hunter Henry also commanding targets, Boutte may struggle to elevate his market value in New England. Given his age (24) and past solid performance, he will likely attract interest as the trade deadline approaches. Probability of trade: 9.
Fulton’s Future with the Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs have been restructuring their cornerback lineup, trading Trent McDuffie and losing Jaylen Watson in free agency. L'Jarius Sneed has returned, and the Chiefs drafted Mansoor Delane to bolster the position. The situation for veteran cornerback Fulton, who missed significant time last season due to injuries, looks precarious. Likely positioned as the No. 4 corner, Fulton could be traded for late-round draft capital if teams are willing to overlook his recent health issues. Probability of trade: 6.
Marist Liufau’s Struggles with the Cowboys
Once a promising player for the Dallas Cowboys, Marist Liufau is now fighting for a roster spot after transitioning to outside linebacker. The team, having added experienced pass-rusher Von Miller, has created a competitive atmosphere that Liufau finds challenging. With limited opportunities to shine, he is a prime candidate for a trade, especially if another team sees his versatility as an asset. Probability of trade: 9.
Kyle Murray's New Role with the Vikings
In an interesting turn of events, the Minnesota Vikings designated Kyler Murray as their starting quarterback after pushing the envelope with J.J. McCarthy. Despite a rough debut year for McCarthy, the Vikings might be tempted to trade him if a considerable offer emerges. While his potential as a first-round draft pick remains, teams are expected to inquire about McCarthy’s availability given his past promise. Probability of trade: 3.
Daniel Jones and the Colts' QB Situation
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones has shown a full recovery from his Achilles surgery, participating actively in training camp. With a history of injuries, the Colts are keen on retaining three capable quarterbacks, keeping Anthony Richardson in the mix and indicating minimal chance of his departure. Given Richardson's struggles on the field and lack of strong market offers, he may remain in Indianapolis through the next season. Probability of trade: 2.
Josh Sweat's Future with the Cardinals
Arizona Cardinals’ Josh Sweat is currently on the physically unable to perform list due to a knee injury, complicating his status. Despite his complaints about being unhappy, GM Monti Ossenfort signaled the team's reluctance to trade him. With the Cardinals anticipated to have a challenging season ahead, Sweat's future could hinge on trade talks if both parties find a mutual resolution post-preseason. Probability of trade: 6.
Kayvon Thibodeaux’s Confusing Status
The New York Giants seem to be keeping Kayvon Thibodeaux despite previous trade rumors linking him to teams seeking pass-rushing help. The Giants have bolstered their pass-rushing depth, making Thibodeaux's stay more likely following injuries that have limited his impact in recent seasons. An unreasonable asking price further complicates matters, solidifying his position in New York. Probability of trade: 3.
Cleveland Browns Wide Receiver Dynamics
With new rookie wideouts KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston making strong impressions, the Cleveland Browns are looking for ways to optimize their receiving corps. Veteran Cedric Tillman, who has struggled with injuries and depth issues, could find himself on the exchange block, especially if other teams see potential value. The Browns' new acquisitions leave little room for Tillman to contribute effectively. Probability of trade: 8.
Wrapping Up the Preseason Trade Talks
The upcoming weeks will be pivotal for NFL franchises, as they determine which players have a solid future with their teams and which are expendable. Teams are weighing options carefully, with player performance in the remaining preseason games likely influencing trade decisions as the roster cut deadline approaches. As the clock ticks down, trade discussions will heat up, with several players eyeing new opportunities to maximize their potential in a different organization.
