As the NFL trade deadline approaches on November 10, speculation swirls around potential player movements, though several marquee stars are protected by contract terms. Specifically, 12 players across the league currently hold no-trade clauses, meaning any potential deal would require their personal agreement before moving forward.
Star Quarterbacks Protected by Clauses
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is signed through the 2029 season and is enjoying an MVP-caliber campaign, leading the NFL in completion percentage and touchdown passes. Similarly, Kansas City Chiefs star Patrick Mahomes continues to play at a high level despite consecutive losses, boasting his highest passer rating since 2022. Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff has experienced a career resurgence with his franchise, while Trevor Lawrence has propelled the Jacksonville Jaguars to a 5-2 start by leading the league in passer rating and average yards per pass attempt.
Other quarterbacks on the list face various circumstances regarding their status. Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is viewed as potentially the most likely candidate to consider a trade if a contender called, though any move depends on waiving his clause. Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is expected to miss the remainder of the season due to blood clots in his lungs, with a very good prognosis for a full recovery. Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is also facing a potential season-long absence after suffering a right thumb injury against the Buffalo Bills, raising questions about his long-term future.
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott continues to put up strong numbers despite his team’s struggles, leading the league in passing first downs. San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy paces the league in QBR and passing success rate, holding the highest career passer rating in NFL history. Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson is navigating the final year of his contract, helping his team to a 5-3 start despite leading the NFL in sacks taken.
Defensive Standouts and Pass Rushers
Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson is protected by a no-trade clause in the first season of his three-year contract. Despite going consecutive games without a sack, Anderson leads the NFL with 7.5 quarterback takedowns through eight weeks. Cleveland defensive lineman Myles Garrett, who secured the NFL’s all-time single-season sack record by taking down Burrow in Week 18 of the 2025 season, has been sidelined since suffering an injury in Week 1.
Garrett appears to be nearing a comeback, as Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay stated that the team will open his 21-day return window during the week. All 12 players will remain with their respective clubs through the deadline unless they personally agree to waive their contract protections.
