Introduction

As the NFL trade deadline for 2025 has come and gone and with no trading anticipated until March, it’s time to look ahead. Here’s a rundown of potential trade candidates for each franchise heading into the 2026 offseason.

Trade Candidates by Team

Buffalo Bills: CB Taron Johnson is a solid slot corner with experience, making him a potential trade asset as Buffalo evaluates its secondary options.

Miami Dolphins: WR Jaylen Waddle could be a prime candidate for trade, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Tyreek Hill's future. At 27, his contract demands may soar.

New England Patriots: RB Rhamondre Stevenson still has value at 27 years old while the rookie TreVeyon Henderson looks poised to take the lead in the backfield.

New York Jets: DL Harrison Phillips may become expendable as younger prospects like Jowon Briggs emerge. A contender might value Phillips' experience.

Baltimore Ravens: LB Roquan Smith could be on the block as younger linebackers like Teddye Buchanan and Trenton Simpson show promise, allowing Baltimore to save significant cap space.

Cincinnati Bengals: RB Chase Brown is struggling this season, which could make him an attractive, cost-effective option for teams in need of a change of pace.

Cleveland Browns: CB Denzel Ward, a four-time Pro Bowler, may not fit into Cleveland’s rebuild, and trading him could alleviate cap space.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Edge T.J. Watt might be a surprising trade candidate as the team considers its future, potentially saving significant salary cap space.

Houston Texans: RB Joe Mixon, despite his Pro Bowl past, may find himself on the trading block, especially coming off a foot injury while saving the team cap space.

Indianapolis Colts: QB Anthony Richardson might be ready to move on as Daniel Jones solidifies his starting role, which would save the Colts money this offseason.

Jacksonville Jaguars: WR Brian Thomas Jr. could find his way onto the trade market as the team assesses its youthful receiving options.

Tennessee Titans: DL Jeffery Simmons, despite being a solid player, could fetch draft picks as the Titans rebuild towards the future.

Denver Broncos: CB Riley Moss represents a potential trade chip for a team rich in cornerback talent, despite not being a standout trade candidate.

Kansas City Chiefs: CB Kristian Fulton, if overshadowed by teammates, could become expendable this offseason.

Las Vegas Raiders: Edge Maxx Crosby, while talented, could be a candidate to trade to save on salary, especially if the franchise seeks a new quarterback.

Los Angeles Chargers: Edge Bud Dupree appears to be the likely candidate as the team looks to bolster its younger roster.

Dallas Cowboys: DL Osa Odighizuwa might be tested in trade discussions as the team evaluates its defensive line depth.

New York Giants: Edge Kayvon Thibodeaux could be a valuable trade piece as the team tries to address its overall talent disparities.

Philadelphia Eagles: RB Tank Bigsby, with great potential, may be traded if the team feels crowded at running back.

Washington Commanders: DL Daron Payne could be a strategic trade as he enters a contract year, although he represents a strong defensive presence.

Chicago Bears: CB Jaylon Johnson, while valuable, may find himself in trade talks given the depth in the secondary.

Detroit Lions: RB David Montgomery is under scrutiny as the team considers its running back roster for the upcoming season.

Green Bay Packers: WR Jayden Reed might find himself in the trade market as wide receiver options are evaluated.

Minnesota Vikings: DL Javon Hargrave is another older player whose contract value could lead to a potential trade.

Atlanta Falcons: QB Kirk Cousins may be on the move to free up salary cap space, although his future remains uncertain.

Carolina Panthers: RB Chuba Hubbard could face trade discussions as he slips down the depth chart after strong performances by others.

New Orleans Saints: RB Alvin Kamara remains a prime candidate for a trade as the team enters a rebuilding phase.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: WR Chris Godwin could be viewed as a potential trade piece given his salary and recent performance trends.

Arizona Cardinals: LB Mack Wilson Jr. might be traded as young players step into starting roles.

Los Angeles Rams: Edge Byron Young could be an attractive trade option if the Rams focus on younger talent.

San Francisco 49ers: QB Mac Jones might be evaluated in trade discussions as the team focuses on its quarterbacks.

Seattle Seahawks: Edge Uchenna Nwosu is facing trade speculation as the team considers its defensive future.