As the NFL trade deadline on Nov. 10 approaches, league activity is heating up following a wide-open start to the season. Several major trades have already occurred, including Quenton Nelson to Seattle, Jeffery Simmons to Chicago, DeForest Buckner to San Francisco, Joey Porter Jr. to Dallas, and Marvin Harrison Jr. to Houston, as reported by sports.yahoo.com.
Offensive Players to Watch
Following a quarterback change in Arizona, Jacoby Brissett is no longer the backup and is considered expendable, though his $15.5 million salary requires management, according to Frank Schwab. Meanwhile, Eric Edholm reported that Shedeur Sanders remains with the Browns as the QB2 behind Deshaun Watson, though Cleveland’s crowded quarterback room and Watson’s recent sacks keep trade speculation alive despite little current traction.
Saquon Barkley is another name to monitor, with Schwab noting that it makes sense for the struggling Eagles to listen to calls on the nearly 30-year-old running back. Additionally, Jonathan Taylor stands out as a prime candidate after the Colts offloaded Nelson and Buckner, with teams like the Giants, Broncos, Packers, and Vikings frequently linked to the star runner. Tony Pollard also checks every box for a sale candidate given his productive year and the Titans’ 1-7 record, as reported by Edholm.
At wide receiver, Brian Thomas Jr. has seen trade speculation grow after falling out of the Jaguars’ primary receiver hierarchy following a stellar rookie season. Jauan Jennings has struggled to find a role with the Vikings after reportedly declining a return to San Francisco, and Josh Downs has requested a trade from the Colts while in the final year of his rookie deal. Jerry Jeudy rounds out the offensive targets, with Schwab noting that the Browns receiver offers an intriguing gamble for a team needing offensive juice.
Defensive Players to Watch
Khalil Mack leads the defensive trade targets as the winless Chargers sit far from playoff contention. Schwab reported that a reunion with the Bears could make sense for the 35-year-old edge rusher. Nolan Smith of the Eagles is also drawing interest from contenders looking to take a chance on his athleticism during his fourth season in Philadelphia.
Josh Sweat requested a trade in August, and while the Cardinals initially rebuffed the request, his contract situation and the team’s standing could renew interest from clubs like the Dallas Cowboys or Green Bay Packers. Moro Ojomo represents another potential departure for the Eagles as he approaches free agency, while Budda Baker could provide veteran playmaking for a contender if the Cardinals decide to move the star safety.
Finally, Amani Hooker leads the league in interceptions and return yards following a standout performance against Joe Burrow. Edholm reported that the Titans could look to offload veterans like Hooker after their 1-7 start and the prior trade of Jeffery Simmons.
