As the NFL trade deadline approaches on November 4, Week 8 is dominated by speculation over quarterback changes, potential player moves, and key injuries that could redefine team strategies for the remainder of the 2025 season. The New York Jets’ winless start has ignited a quarterback controversy, while contenders and rebuilders alike weigh deadline deals to bolster their rosters or accumulate future assets.
The Jets, at 0-7, are grappling with whether to bench struggling quarterback Justin Fields for veteran Tyrod Taylor after owner Woody Johnson publicly criticized Fields’ performance. Coach Aaron Glenn is considering the switch, which would signal a concession that the team’s offseason investment in Fields has failed and force a reevaluation of the position in 2026. Compounding the issue, the Jets are expected to be active sellers at the deadline, with players like edge rusher Jermaine Johnson and running back Breece Hall drawing trade interest to stockpile draft picks. Fields has thrown for just 845 yards and four touchdowns in six starts, leading to internal debates about utilizing his running ability more effectively, but time may be running out for him in New York.
Beyond the Jets, the trade deadline is prompting teams to make pivotal roster decisions. The Miami Dolphins, mired at 1-6, are likely to trade pass rushers Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb, though wide receiver Jaylen Waddle is considered a building block and unlikely to be moved. The Las Vegas Raiders have assured star defensive end Maxx Crosby he won’t be traded despite a 2-5 record, but tight end Brock Bowers and wide receiver Jakobi Meyers are set to return from injury after the bye week. The Kansas City Chiefs, back in form, could add defensive depth, particularly on the line or at cornerback, to support their Super Bowl aspirations as the offense gains momentum.
Quarterback futures extend across the league, with Lamar Jackson returning to practice for the Baltimore Ravens after a hamstring injury, though his contract situation—featuring a $74.5 million cap hit in 2026—looms large. The Washington Commanders’ Jayden Daniels avoided a long-term hamstring issue but remains questionable for Week 8, while the Minnesota Vikings will start Carson Wentz again as J.J. McCarthy recovers from an ankle sprain. Baker Mayfield’s strong play for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers underscores his value in a crowded quarterback market, with his contract extension talks likely postponed until after the season.
Injury updates and player returns are shaping Week 8 matchups, with the Green Bay Packers expecting wide receiver Christian Watson back from an ACL tear and the Philadelphia Eagles bringing retired defensive end Brandon Graham out of retirement for added experience. However, setbacks persist: the Houston Texans’ Nico Collins is in concussion protocol, the Carolina Panthers’ Bryce Young is out with a high-ankle sprain, and the Miami Dolphins placed tight end Darren Waller on injured reserve, further depleting their offense.
Implications of these developments will crystallize as the deadline nears, with the Jets’ quarterback decision potentially triggering a broader roster overhaul and sellers like the Dolphins accelerating rebuilds. Contenders such as the Chiefs aim to fortify their lineups for a playoff push, while teams like the Ravens hope Jackson’s return can spark a turnaround. The next two weeks will not only clarify playoff pictures but also set the stage for offseason planning, making Week 8 a critical juncture in the 2025 NFL narrative.