With the NFL trade deadline set for Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 4 p.m. Eastern time, teams across the league are weighing whether to chase a postseason push or stockpile draft capital for the future.
Several significant moves have already reshaped rosters across the league. Blockbuster agreements sent guard Quenton Nelson, defensive lineman DeForest Buckner and defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons to new homes, while quarterback Jacoby Brissett landed with the Baltimore Ravens. Yet with only two days left before the cutoff, front offices are facing hard decisions on prominent quarterbacks, receivers and running backs.
Quarterback carousel tightens
The market for passers narrowed considerably after Baltimore addressed its depth following a thumb injury to Lamar Jackson. The Ravens had checked in on Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones and explored Chicago Bears backup Tyson Bagent before finalizing a deal with the Arizona Cardinals for Brissett, according to reports from ESPN and The Ringer.
Despite trading away Nelson and Buckner, the Colts have drawn calls from multiple clubs regarding Jones, ESPN reported. Jones signed a two-year, $88 million contract extension in March, which includes a $10.51 million injury guarantee for 2027 that becomes fully guaranteed next March. If Indianapolis falls out of the playoff hunt, the team could face pressure to protect against that financial trigger unless Jones agrees to waive it to facilitate a move elsewhere.
Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders show no inclination to part with veteran Kirk Cousins. ESPN reported that the Raiders had received no trade inquiries regarding Cousins and have no desire to deal him. Raiders coach Klint Kubiak recently reiterated that Cousins remains the starter ahead of rookie Fernando Mendoza.
Playmakers drawing interest
Offensive weapons continue to command attention, though several teams have pushed back against inquiries. The New York Jets rebuffed overtures for running back Breece Hall, ESPN reported, just six months after signing him to a three-year, $43.5 million contract extension.
Wide receiver movement appears more fluid. Colts wideout Josh Downs requested a trade following earlier roster departures, and Indianapolis has notified interested suitors that an offer involving a fourth-round draft choice has already been submitted, according to ESPN and NFL Network. The Kansas City Chiefs and Pittsburgh Steelers are among the teams tracking Downs.
The Chiefs have also shown persistent interest in Jacksonville Jaguars wideout Brian Thomas Jr., according to ESPN. Jacksonville lost defensive tackle DaVon Hamilton for the remainder of the season because of a torn quadriceps muscle, creating an urgent defensive need that could push the Jaguars to consider offensive departures.
In Tennessee, the Titans have listened to inquiries regarding wide receiver Calvin Ridley and running back Tony Pollard, according to Sports Illustrated. However, conflicting reports have emerged over Pollard’s availability, with some outlets noting the Titans prefer to keep the running back to aid the development of second-year quarterback Cam Ward.
Struggling teams hold their ground
Despite difficult starts, several losing franchises are refusing to liquidate veteran talent. The winless Los Angeles Chargers have turned away inquiries on quarterback Justin Herbert, receiver Ladd McConkey and pass rusher Khalil Mack. Head coach Jim Harbaugh dismissed speculation regarding Mack, emphasizing that both sides want to remain together.
In Dallas, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones signaled that fans should not expect sudden reinforcements. Speaking before Sunday’s game, Jones told the Dallas Morning News that he does not foresee any substantive additions coming together before the buzzer.
The Ravens also appear determined to keep running back Derrick Henry despite dropping four straight games. Henry stated publicly that he is staying put, and ESPN confirmed Baltimore does not plan to move him.
Front offices have until Tuesday afternoon to make final adjustments. Once the 4 p.m. cutoff passes, teams must rely exclusively on free agency and waiver claims to adjust their rosters for the playoff stretch.
