During the NFL offseason, a significant trade deal can create ripple effects across the league. Many teams may be eyeing the same player, particularly if that player is a quarterback. If a franchise overpays in a trade, the asking price for other players at the same position may increase in the trade market. Additionally, while a trade can enhance a team's playoff aspirations, it can also disrupt the front office's overall roster-building strategy. While speculation often eclipses actual movements on the trade block, several notable names, including a starting-caliber quarterback, a few star wide receivers, and some prominent defensive players, could be on the move this offseason. This analysis will cover six trades that could potentially shape the 2025 offseason.

One proposed trade involves the New York Giants acquiring quarterback Kirk Cousins from the Atlanta Falcons in exchange for a 2025 fourth-round pick and cornerback Cor'Dale Flott. The Giants are exploring options in the quarterback market, as they currently have no quarterbacks under contract for 2025. With Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson recovering from a second Achilles tear, the Browns might be compelled to pursue a rookie quarterback with the No. 2 overall selection. Consequently, if the Giants wish to avoid reaching for a quarterback in a class perceived to be weaker than last year's, they may seek out a veteran with proven starting experience. Cousins, who had a subpar 2024 season, could be available at a reasonable cost. The Falcons, under general manager Terry Fontenot, might be open to retaining Cousins as a backup, but with his contract carrying $27.5 million in guarantees in 2025, they may need to contribute to his salary in any trade. Furthermore, acquiring Flott could help the Falcons improve their 22nd-ranked pass defense, especially since Flott had a productive 2024 season.

Another potential trade involves the Dallas Cowboys acquiring wide receiver Davante Adams from the New York Jets for a 2025 third-round pick and a fifth-round pick. Adams has a history of seeking familiarity when moving teams, as demonstrated by his trade from the Green Bay Packers to the Las Vegas Raiders to play with Derek Carr. Early in the 2024 season, Adams expressed a desire to join the Jets to reunite with Aaron Rodgers. Should Rodgers retire before the 2025 season, the Jets may find themselves without a defined succession plan at quarterback, which could compel Adams to seek opportunities elsewhere. Although the New Orleans Saints could be a potential landing spot for Adams to reunite with Carr, their financial situation hinders such a move. The Cowboys, led by head coach Mike McCarthy, could provide Adams a stable environment alongside quarterback Dak Prescott and fellow wideout CeeDee Lamb, both of whom could attract Adams's interest.

The Baltimore Ravens may also make headlines by trading for wide receiver Tyreek Hill from the Miami Dolphins in exchange for a 2025 second-round pick. Following a disappointing season without playoff participation, Hill made comments suggesting he might seek a trade. His agent attempted to clarify his statements, emphasizing Hill's passion for winning, which raises concerns about his mindset if Miami faces another challenging season. If the Dolphins explore trade offers, the Ravens could make a compelling bid, as they were aggressive movers in recent trade windows. Hill's exceptional speed and experience could create a dynamic trio alongside quarterback Lamar Jackson and running back Derrick Henry, adding a potent weapon to an already formidable offense.

In an additional noteworthy trade scenario, the Washington Commanders could pursue wide receiver Cooper Kupp from the Los Angeles Rams for a 2025 third-round pick and a seventh-round pick. Prior to the 2024 season, Rams head coach Sean McVay dismissed trade speculation surrounding Kupp, yet the team's trajectory raises questions about the 31-year-old receiver’s future in Los Angeles. With Kupp’s injury history and the emergence of receiver Puka Nacua, the Rams might benefit from trading Kupp, especially as the Commanders look to bolster their offense with a solid complementary option to Terry McLaurin. Given their substantial cap space, the Commanders could feasibly acquire Kupp, enhancing their roster ahead of what seems to be a rebuilding phase.

The Atlanta Falcons might consider acquiring EDGE Bryce Huff from the Philadelphia Eagles, sending back a 2025 fourth-round pick and a seventh-round pick in the process. Bryce Huff’s performance in Philadelphia has been underwhelming given his contract expectations, and he has struggled to secure consistent playing time. If the Eagles decide to move on from Huff, he could rejuvenate his career with the Falcons, who finished low in pressure rate last season. The potential addition of Huff could complement an already promising defense and solidify the edge position.

Lastly, a key trade could involve the Los Angeles Chargers acquiring safety Tyrann Mathieu from the New Orleans Saints for a 2025 fifth-round pick. The Saints are likely to undergo a significant roster reevaluation with a new general manager at the helm. With cap concerns looming over New Orleans after a disappointing season, Mathieu stands out as a trade asset due to his elite performance and experience. For the Chargers, bolstering their secondary with a player of Mathieu’s caliber could be a massive boost as they seek to enhance their defensive capabilities.