As the NFL trade deadline approaches on Tuesday, ESPN insider Dan Graziano provides the latest updates on team strategies, player availability, and potential deals that could reshape playoff races.
The 2025 NFL trade deadline is set for Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, and with just two days remaining, teams are actively evaluating their positions. Graziano notes that the fluid situation is influenced by Week 9 game outcomes and front office decisions, with 12 in-season moves already completed and more expected. This period is marked by intense speculation as franchises balance short-term gains against long-term planning.
Several teams find themselves in ambiguous positions, such as the Carolina Panthers at 4-4, who may stand pat due to uncertainty about their contention status. Similarly, the Cincinnati Bengals, despite a 3-5 record, remain hopeful for Joe Burrow’s return and are reluctant to trade key defenders, while the New York Giants, at 2-6, are seeking offensive playmakers to support rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart after injuries. These teams illustrate the challenge of making definitive moves so early in the season.
The running back market is particularly active, with contenders like the New England Patriots, Kansas City Chiefs, and Houston Texans looking to add depth. New England, dealing with Rhamondre Stevenson’s toe injury, is exploring veteran options, and other teams like the Los Angeles Chargers are also in the mix. Available backs include Jerome Ford of the Cleveland Browns and Jaylen Wright of the Miami Dolphins, though supply may not meet demand, potentially driving up prices.
Quarterback moves are rare at the deadline, but Kirk Cousins of the Atlanta Falcons is a notable name. However, the Falcons value him as a backup and are asking a high price, making a trade unlikely barring injuries elsewhere. Other QB options are limited, with the Bengals having already acquired Joe Flacco, highlighting the scarcity of impactful signal-callers available mid-season.
Upstart contenders are making waves, with the Patriots flush with draft picks and cap space after recent trades, positioning them to add an edge rusher or running back. The Indianapolis Colts, leading the league at 7-1, are seeking defensive help, especially at cornerback, to complement their potent offense. These teams exemplify the aggressive stance some are taking to capitalize on strong starts.
Fantasy football implications are significant, as trades could boost players’ values. For instance, if Breece Hall is traded, his backup Isaiah Davis could become more relevant, and moves involving receivers like Jakobi Meyers or tight ends like David Njoku could impact lineups. This adds an extra layer of interest for fans and analysts tracking every rumor.
Teams likely to trade away players include the Miami Dolphins, who are undergoing an overhaul, and the Tennessee Titans, who have already started dealing. The Cleveland Browns and New York Giants also have players available, such as Jerome Ford and Evan Neal, respectively, as they look to accumulate assets for future seasons.
On the buying side, the New England Patriots, Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, Baltimore Ravens, and Dallas Cowboys are expected to be active, seeking defensive reinforcements or skill position players to enhance their playoff chances. The deadline’s outcome will likely influence the second half of the season and postseason landscape, setting the stage for dramatic shifts in team fortunes.