The 2024 NFL trade deadline has concluded, bringing with it a series of intriguing moves, though not all anticipated trades materialized. Among the noteworthy transactions that did not take place, several high-profile deals stand out as potential game changers for the involved franchises.
The Philadelphia Eagles face a challenging scenario, relying heavily on receivers DeVonta Smith and A.J. Brown, both of whom have encountered injuries this season. The addition of a seasoned veteran like Cooper Kupp could have provided the Eagles with valuable insurance and another reliable option for quarterback Jalen Hurts. Alternatively, Adam Thielen from the Carolina Panthers could have served as a more affordable and practical option. Instead, the Eagles are left with Jahan Dotson and a host of uncertainties beyond their star duo, an issue that could prove detrimental if either Smith or Brown is sidelined further, particularly with Brown already nursing a knee injury.
Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys, currently struggling with a 3-5 record, made a move by acquiring wide receiver Jonathan Mingo. However, questions remain about their potential as contenders, especially with starting quarterback Dak Prescott facing the possibility of injured reserve due to a hamstring injury. Veteran guard Zack Martin may also be nearing the end of his tenure with the team, especially if Dallas opts for a roster reset. The Houston Texans would have been a fitting destination for Martin, who could have bolstered their troubled offensive line, particularly following the loss of starter Kenyon Green. Despite their youth and aspirations for the season, the Texans only managed to make minor moves, trading away Khalil Davis and Cam Akers.
On the other hand, the Cleveland Browns chose to retain franchise cornerstone Myles Garrett, despite the team's struggles this season. Given Garrett's All-Pro-level performance, a trade to the Atlanta Falcons could have further enhanced the Falcons' solid standing at 6-3. Such a move might have positioned them more favorably in the competitive NFC, which currently faces its own challenges. With the Falcons struggling to generate pressure—recording a league-low nine sacks—the addition of Garrett would have addressed their significant need for defensive help. Should Garrett prove unattainable, the Falcons could have explored acquiring a veteran like Azeez Ojulari from the New York Giants, yet they remained inactive as the trade deadline passed.
Another noteworthy situation unfolds for the Miami Dolphins, as they remain playoff long shots even with Tua Tagovailoa's recent return from his concussion issues. Despite an uptick in competitiveness with his return, doubts linger regarding Tagovailoa's long-term viability as the franchise quarterback due to his injury history. Given these circumstances, pursuing a promising young quarterback like Bryce Young from the Carolina Panthers would have made strategic sense. Young's career has experienced a rocky start, and with the Panthers appearing less committed to his future, Miami could have provided a new environment conducive to his development. Now, the Dolphins' best chance rests on the health and performance of Tagovailoa as they navigate the remainder of the season.
Lastly, with linebacker Matt Milano sidelined by a biceps injury, the Buffalo Bills find themselves with an evident vulnerability at the position. The Las Vegas Raiders, entering a rebuilding phase, presented an opportunity for the Bills to acquire veteran player Robert Spillane, who is having a productive season, registering at least 85 tackles and five tackles for loss. Spillane's relatively modest contract could have made him an affordable addition. The inability of the Bills, along with other teams such as the Eagles, Texans, Falcons, and Dolphins, to secure key players ahead of the deadline is regrettable, as these additions would have significantly enhanced their respective playoff aspirations and made for a more compelling postseason narrative.
