Introduction

The start of the 2026 NFL league year is just around the corner, with teams gearing up for a period of intense transactions. On March 11 at 4 p.m. ET, the deadline for various roster moves arrives, and for at least ten teams exceeding the newly established salary cap of over $301 million, major changes loom. With restructuring contracts and releasing players on the table, potential trades could also be in play as franchises seek to navigate their financial realities and prepare for the upcoming season.

Trade Market Dynamics

As teams strategize, the idea of trading key players, particularly those with high salaries but diminished performance, is generating buzz. Not only can trades provide some compensation back to teams looking to clear cap space, but they also offer other franchises a chance to acquire talent while adhering to budget constraints. Here’s a closer look at some of the players currently surrounded by trade rumors.

Kyler Murray: The Subject of Trade Buzz

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray has dominated trade discussions this offseason. With comments from Cardinals general manager Monti Ossenfort highlighting that all options are on the table for the 28-year-old two-time Pro Bowler, it signals a willingness to explore trades following a challenging year for the team. Murray’s hefty five-year, $230.5 million contract, combined with recent performance struggles, complicates his trade value, but moving him could save the Cardinals around $34.7 million against the cap.

For the Pittsburgh Steelers, acquiring Murray could be an improvement over their current options, as new head coach Mike McCarthy looks to avoid a rebuild. With uncertainty over veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ future, the Steelers are looking for a viable option at quarterback, making a potential trade for Murray an intriguing possibility.

T.J. Watt: A Surprising Trade Candidate

In Pittsburgh, rumors also swirl around edge rusher T.J. Watt, who may be on the trading block after an injury-plagued 2025 season. At 32 years old, his performance waned, with his lowest sack total in years. If the Steelers decide to shop Watt, they might attract interest from teams ready to win now, like the San Francisco 49ers, who are seeking to bolster their pass rush after ranking last in the league in sacks last season.

However, trading Watt comes with complications due to his sizable contract, which may deter many teams. If the Steelers wait until after June 1, they could save significantly on their cap space, making it a strategic decision about when to pull the trigger on any potential trade.

Maxx Crosby and the Raiders’ Position

The Las Vegas Raiders are also a notable mention in trade discussions, especially regarding star edge rusher Maxx Crosby. Despite having ample cap space, there are growing whispers that Crosby is reluctant to participate in another team rebuild. Raiders general manager John Spytek has publicly praised the defender, stating that elite players are essential for a winning team, which makes the prospect of trading him unlikely unless things become tense in the locker room. If trade speculation gains traction, teams could expect to pay a hefty price for Crosby's services.

Tremaine Edmunds: A Potential Salary Dump

For the Chicago Bears, linebacker Tremaine Edmunds has been given permission to seek a trade as they grapple with salary cap challenges. With just over $6.5 million over the cap, moving on from Edmunds, who is entering the last year of his contract, would clear significant space. The Tennessee Titans are reportedly interested in adding an experienced and impactful linebacker to their roster, which could create a mutually beneficial trade scenario.

Buffalo Bills Pursue Michael Pittman Jr.

On the offensive side, the Buffalo Bills are eyeing Indianapolis Colts receiver Michael Pittman Jr. As the Colts face challenging offseason decisions with a crowded cap and several free agents, trading Pittman could provide essential cap relief. While he has shown potential with two 1,000-yard seasons, parting ways could free up significant dollars for the Colts while giving the Bills a much-needed boost in their receiving corps.

Chargers Strengthen Offensive Line with Elgton Jenkins

Finally, the Los Angeles Chargers may look to target guard Elgton Jenkins from the Green Bay Packers as they aim to improve a struggling offensive line. Having suffered due to injuries and lapses in performance, trading for Jenkins, who brings Pro Bowl experience, could offer immediate benefits. The Packers, currently over the salary cap, may view this as a prudent move to save money.

Conclusion

The coming weeks promise a flurry of activity as NFL teams weigh their options with the impending start of the 2026 league year. With numerous high-profile players possibly on the move, fanbases should prepare for a dramatic reshaping of rosters. As teams look to comply with the salary cap while still striving for success on the field, the trade market could become the center stage of a captivating story lined with ambition, strategy, and unexpected moves.