With the NFL trade deadline set for Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 4 p.m. EST, playoff contenders across the league are exploring upgrades, and running backs have emerged at the center of discussions.
Multiple high-profile rushers, headlined by Indianapolis Colts star Jonathan Taylor, are generating significant interest as rebuilding clubs consider acquiring future draft capital. Indianapolis has already traded away veteran offensive lineman Quenton Nelson and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, fueling expectations that the front office may be open to further moves, USA TODAY Sports reported.
Colts weigh offers for Jonathan Taylor
Taylor, 27, represents the premier target on the market. Under contract through the 2028 season, the former All-Pro has accumulated 812 scrimmage yards and eight touchdowns this year despite Indianapolis struggling through a difficult campaign. USA TODAY Sports identified the Denver Broncos, Minnesota Vikings and Seattle Seahawks as potential suitors seeking an established, three-down workhorse for a postseason push.
Acquiring Taylor will not come cheap. ESPN reporters Adam Schefter and Ian Rapoport reported that the Colts are currently sitting on an offer that includes a second-round draft choice along with additional compensation, according to Bengals Wire. That steep asking price is expected to deter several interested teams, including the Cincinnati Bengals, despite lingering questions about running back depth across the league.
Ravens and Jets face roster decisions
Speculation has also surfaced surrounding Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry. Baltimore has lost four consecutive contests to fall to 4-5 in the competitive AFC North, and quarterback Lamar Jackson is sidelined with a severe thumb injury that could keep him out for the rest of the season. The Ravens recently acquired veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett from the Arizona Cardinals, signaling that Baltimore may attempt to stay in the postseason race rather than launch a full roster teardown, USA TODAY Sports reported.
Henry, 32, has averaged 63 rushing yards per game since Week 5 without Jackson creating space in the backfield. While Fantasy Sports on SI suggested moving Henry could provide Baltimore with future assets while placing the veteran with a title contender, both outlets noted that an actual deal remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, the New York Jets face a unique dilemma with Breece Hall. The 25-year-old running back signed a three-year, $43.5 million contract extension earlier this year but has missed five consecutive weeks with a quadriceps injury. In Hall’s absence, 22-year-old rookie Braelon Allen has flourished, averaging 100.8 rushing yards per game, USA TODAY Sports noted.
Jets head coach Aaron Glenn has stated publicly that the franchise will not trade Hall, according to Fantasy Sports on SI. However, analysts point out that New York already holds three first-round selections for the 2027 draft and could listen if another team makes an aggressive pitch.
Other rushers on the block
Beyond the marquee names, several reliable veterans could change addresses before Tuesday afternoon:
- Tony Pollard: The 29-year-old Tennessee Titans starter is in the final year of his contract on a 1-6 team and remains on pace for his fifth consecutive 1,000-yard season, making him a logical target for teams that miss out on Taylor.
- Tyjae Spears: Pollard’s backfield partner in Tennessee has battled a knee injury but offers receiving ability on third downs at an affordable acquisition cost, USA TODAY Sports reported.
- Kimani Vidal: With the Los Angeles Chargers managing a crowded backfield that includes rookie Omarion Hampton and Keaton Mitchell, Vidal has averaged 4.6 yards per carry and could appeal to clubs needing backfield depth.
Front offices have until 4 p.m. EST on Tuesday to finalize agreements, after which NFL rosters are frozen from outside trades for the remainder of the 2026 campaign.
