2025 NFL Trade Deadline: Key Takeaways

The 2025 NFL trade deadline passed at 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, marking a significant moment in the season. Unlike other leagues, the NFL trade market is often quieter during this period; however, this year saw notable activity. Teams were engaged in various maneuvers, with some aiming to bolster their rosters while others offloaded players. Every squad had a chance to enhance their prospects for both immediate and future success before the trade window closed for the offseason on March 11, 2026.

Key Winners and Losers

As teams across the league navigated the trade waters, analysts Moe Moton and Kris Knox examined each franchise’s decisions to determine the biggest winners and losers. Here are the highlights:

Winners

• RB Emari Demercado: With James Conner sidelined for the season and Trey Benson injured, the Arizona Cardinals opted against acquiring another running back. Instead, this decision benefits Demercado, who showcased his potential with a solid performance against the Dallas Cowboys.
• K Zane Gonzalez: The Atlanta Falcons signed the kicker after watching John Parker Romo struggle in their recent loss to the New England Patriots, representing a positive step for Gonzalez’s career.
• Pass Rush (Dre'Mont Jones): The Baltimore Ravens' acquisition of Jones from the Tennessee Titans strengthens their pass rush, especially after trading Odafe Oweh. Jones's track record with 4.5 sacks indicates he will provide valuable contributions.
• LB Barrett Carter: The Bengals traded Logan Wilson to the Cowboys, establishing Carter as the defensive cornerstone. The rookie appears set to capitalize on this opportunity for the rest of the season.
• Franchise Owner/GM Jerry Jones: The Cowboys bolstered their defense by acquiring linebacker Logan Wilson and defensive tackle Quinnen Williams, furthering their aim to enhance the team’s playoff prospects despite existing challenges.

Losers

• QB Kyler Murray: The Cardinals did not upgrade their offensive talent during the deadline, leaving Murray's future increasingly uncertain, especially given the team's performance with backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett.
• QB Josh Allen: The Buffalo Bills failed to secure additional wide receivers before the deadline, leaving Allen without enhanced support amid strict competition in their division.
• RB Chuba Hubbard: The Panthers opted not to move Hubbard, but his role diminished as Rico Dowdle assumed starting responsibilities. Hubbard remains blocked by younger talent in the running back roster.
• QB C.J. Stroud: The Texans missed a chance to acquire a talented veteran wideout, intensifying the struggles of their passing game amid Stroud's injury concerns.
• NFL Fans: The Washington Commanders' fanbase faces disappointment after not pursuing additional quarterback options in the wake of Jayden Daniels' injury, signaling a lost opportunity for the season.

Looking Ahead

As the dust settles on the trades made as the deadline passed, expectations build for the remainder of the NFL season. The decisions made will have lasting impacts, influencing team trajectories leading into the offseason.