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Every NFL Team's Top Trade Targets in 2026 Offseason
The end of the NFL season means the heaviest period of player movement is nearly upon us.
As every team gears up to make their own run at the Lombardi Trophy, the smart general managers around the league will use every tool they can to improve their roster moving foward.
Free agency kicks off in March and the draft will come in April. However, the trade market is often the most compelling source of player movement. Last spring and summer we saw George Pickens, Jalen Ramsey and Minkah Fitzpatrick among others move via trade.
Not every team is in position to bring in a star player. Cap constraints and team trajectory often inform who each team can target. But there's still probably a player or deal out there that could improve every team.
Here, we'll take a look at who those trade targets could be for each team based on their current needs, roster, cap situation and trajectory.
Arizona Cardinals
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $38.4 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, Offensive Tackle, Guard
Top Trade Targets
It's hard to know exactly what the Cardinals are going to look to do this offseason until a head coaching hire is made. The Cardinals and the Raiders are the only two teams who still haven't made their decision.
That will the first domino to fall in the desert and the question of Kyler Murray will be next. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the franchise plans to have extensive discussions about Murray's future this offseason.
The Cards could look at Jacoby Brissett as the bridge quarterback who can get them through 2026. But there's no upside there. Targeting a quarterback like Mac Jones could ostensibly result in a Sam Darnold or Geno Smith-like resurgence after initially struggling to catch on in the league.
Elsewhere on the roster, Trent McDuffie would make a lot of sense. The Chiefs are in a real cap bind and McDuffie could be on the trade block as a result. He's produced as a shutdown corner with inside-out versatility. He could stabilize a Cardinals cornerback room that needs experience.
Landing Elgton Jenkins might be the most desirable outcome on the trade market. The Packers lineman had issues with his contract last spring and didn't have the best season when they moved him to center.
He could wind up playing either guard spot or right tackle and be an upgrade if he came to Arizona.
Atlanta Falcons
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $25.4 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Defensive Tackle, Wide Receiver
Top Trade Targets
The Falcons are going into a new era with Kevin Stefanski as their head coach. All three of these trade targets have a tie to the two-time Coach of the Year Award winner.
The Falcons still need a cornerback to play opposite of A.J. Terrell. While the draft would be a nice place to find one, they could use the veteran presence that Denzel Ward brings. With Stefanski gone and defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz potentially leaving Cleveland, Ward might welcome a change of scenery.
Kirk Cousins's restructured contract essentially dictates that he will be released by March 13. They could bring him back, but they could also explore other veteran quarterback options. Michael Penix Jr. will have to work his way back from a torn ACL.
Jacoby Brissett was successful in Arizona this season, but he posted his best QBR in his one season with Kevin Stefanski in Cleveland. The two could reunite and give the Falcons a relatively high floor at the position.
The Falcons have to make a decision on Kyle Pitts. If he decides to test free agency then Atlanta could easily call the Browns about David Njoku. Harold Fannin's emergence in Cleveland might make him expendable.
Baltimore Ravens
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $21.8 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Edge-Rusher, Guard, Defensive Tackle
Top Trade Targets
The Ravens decision to fire John Harbaugh puts even more pressure on this team to see results right away. They don't have a ton of cap space right now, but it wouldn't be surprising to see them clear enough that they can bring in at least one more expensive piece.
Bringing in another interior defender who can pair up with Nnamdi Madubuike on the inside would be a good addition. Javon Hargrave has experience in the AFC North and still has a little pass-rush juice despite a slow year in Minnesota. Clark is still an excellent run defender and the Cowboys have an expensive trio of interior defensive linemen.
Luka Van Ness would be a buy-low candidate. He's entering the fourth year of his contract and hasn't made the impact that Green Bay expected when they took him in the first round of the draft. Perhaps new head coach Jesse Minter could get another level of production out of him and add depth they need on the outside.
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Buffalo Bills
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): -$6 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Wide Receiver, Edge-Rusher, Linebacker
Top Trade Targets
Keon Coleman has been in the news in the wake of the Bills decision to fire Sean McDermott. New head coach Joe Brady is apparently a fan, but there's no denying that the Bills receiver room needs a jolt.
Coleman still has plenty of time to develop into who the Bills hoped he would be. But the pressure is on in Buffalo and giving Allen a legitimate No. 1 who can create separation and win one-on-one matchups.
Brown would be the preferred target. His relationship with Philadelphia has been a topic of speculation all season and the team that trades for him would get an incredibly team-friendly deal.
However, Brandon Aiyuk should cost significantly less in terms of what the Bills would have to give up in draft capital. The 49ers voided the star receivers guarantees after a rift formed between the two regarding his rehab from the torn ACL that forced him to miss this season.
He's more than capable of being Allen's No. 1 target when he's healthy.
Replacing Matt Milano could be on the agenda this offseason. Pete Werner's role in New Orleans shrank this season, but he's still the kind of athletic 'backer who could help the Bills.
Carolina Panthers
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $17.1 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Center, Linebacker, Tight End
Top Trade Targets
- TE Cole Kmet
- TE Michael Mayer
- Edge Uchenna Nwosu
The Panthers made some headway in Dave Canales's second season, but have to improve the roster to emerge as the favorite in the NFC South.
A relatively simple need to fill through the trade market could be at tight end. Tommy Tremble is a solid blocker, but he led all tight ends on the team with 249 receiving yards.
There are a few tight ends who are probbly underutilized by their current teams. Cole Kmet has been eclipsed by Colston Loveland while Brock Bowers overshadows Michael Mayer in Vegas. Either could lead the Panthers tight end room and give Bryce Young a strong target to work with.
One of the Panthers most glaring weaknesses was a pass rush that was 31st in the league in pressure rate. They have some promising young pieces in Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen, but they need veterans who can bridge the gap of their development.
Uchenna Nwosu is a veteran with experience on an elite defense in Seattle. His seven sacks would have led the Panthers this season and the Seahawks could create some cap space by dealing him.
Chicago Bears
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): -$9.6 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Safety, Offensive Tackle, Edge-Rusher
Top Trade Targets
The Bears were one of the biggest breakout teams in 2025. That might make them one or two big acquisitions away from getting to the big game next year.
The biggest name that will likely be attached to them throughout the trade season is Maxx Crosby. There was clearly tension between the star pass-rusher and the Raiders at the end of the season. The Bears got 10 sacks out of Montez Sweat, but they could still use another dominant defensive end to pair with him.
If taking on Crosby's massive contract would be an issue then a player like Kayvon Thibodeaux would also be a good target. Brian Burns and Abdul Carter are the clear 1-2 punch in New York. The former fifth-overall pick could potentially use a change of scenery to get back to the 11.5-sack form he showed in 2023.
Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker are both slated to become free agents. If the Bears can't retain both then safety could become a priority. Budda Baker has been in and out of the trade rumor mill over the last few seasons. He could be available if he's not wanting to go through another coaching change in Arizona.
Cincinnati Bengals
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $55 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Edge-Rusher, Interior Offensive Line
Top Trade Targets
The Bengals are actually a good candidate to swing a big trade if they feel so inclined. They have a good amount of cap space and it would seem like they are going to let Trey Hendrickson walk after a few years of contract drama.
If that's the case, targeting a proven edge-rusher would be a good idea. They will miss Hendrickson's production and Jermaine Johnson II would be an ideal target. Bleacher Report's Kris Knox noted that Johnson's 2024 Achilles injury and relatively quiet 2025 could bring his price down. However, he's still a high ceiling young player at a premium position of need.
Knox actually named the Bengals as the top landing spot for Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne. He is a disruptive interior defender, but his production and usage tailed off in Washington this season.
Of course, the Bengals have struggled to find reliable corners recently. The Chiefs are in a tough cap spot and Trent McDuffie is a prime candidate to be traded. He's going to be the top candidate for a lot of teams who need cornerback help.
Cleveland Browns
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): -$16 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, Wide Receiver, Offensive Tackle
Top Trade Targets
If the Browns make any trades this offseason they'll have to keep costs down. They aren't in as bad of a situation as they have been before, but they still have to carve out space.
Walker Little would be a relatively cheap way to address their left tackle opening. He was benched at left tackle this season, but he played much better before 2025. He had a 2.9 blown block percentage in eight starts in 2024.
Every avenue to find a quarterback should be explored. There aren't a ton of cheap options at quarterback, but Mac Jones would only cost $3.5 million.
Chris Godwin would be an interesting fit now that Todd Monken is coming in as head coach. He was a big part of Godwin's early development during his time in Tampa and the Bucs might be willing to deal him after back-to-back years of struggling with injures.
Dallas Cowboys
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): -$31.4 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Edge-Rusher, Linebacker, Cornerback
Top Trade Targets
The Cowboys need to bolster their defense in the 2026 offseason more than anything. All three levels could need help and there's a trade target for each level listed here.
Dallas always seems to come up when Jalen Ramsey is on the move. The pairing again makes sense. The Cowboys would need to figure out his contract after a trade is completed. The Steelers can deal him and free up a ton of cap space, but Dallas has their own cap bind to get out of.
The Steelers moved Ramsey to safety this season. If he wants to try and move back to corner, the Cowboys have a need at both positions. Either way, Ramsey will be able to help out the secondary even if he's starting to slow down.
Kellen Moore should have familiarity with Pete Werner. His role in New Orleans started to dissipate, but this is a Cowboys roster that could use his athleticism in the middle of the defense.
Finally, Herbig is the kind of young, cheap edge-rusher who could earn an extension in Dallas. He's stuck behind T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith in the pecking order, but he would be a good fit in the system Christian Parker will try and implement in Dallas.
Denver Broncos
10 of 32.jpg?w=684 "Colts Texans Football")
Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $28.5 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Tight End, Offensive Tackle, Linebacker
Top Trade Targets
Sean Payton's team came up just short of a Super Bowl berth so there's incentive to make the kind of move to get them over the top. Making an enticing offer to the Colts for Michael Pittman Jr. would certainly qualify.
Pittman Jr. was eclipsed by Alec Pierce as the No. 1 option in Indianapolis this season. Now Pierce is headed toward free agency and the Colts could clear $24 million in cap space by trading him.
Evan Engram will be 32 in September and wasn't as productive as Denver needed him to be. Targeting a younger tight end like Michael Mayer could be a cost-effective way of getting better at the position long-term.
Mayer's production doesn't jump off the page either, but he's entering the final year of his rookie deal. Being stuck behind Brock Bowers doesn't help and he could take on a larger role in Denver.
The Saints could be looking to offload Alvin Kamara's contract. It's hard to justify his full $18.6 million cap hit as he turns 31 in July. New Orleans can shave $3.4 million in caps space if they trade him before June 1. It would be $11.5 million if the trade him after.
Of course, Sean Payton is very familiar with Kamara and what he can do. He could potentially get one more season out of him as a sidekick to RJ Harvey in 2026.
Detroit Lions
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): -$8.7 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Edge-Rusher, Center
Top Trade Targets
Maxx Crosby's name is going to appear on a lot of these lists. He's this year's most-likely star to be traded based on where the Raiders are as a franchise. That being said, the Lions have the advantage of still being a roster that can win if they can bounce back this season. Pairing Crosby with Aidan Hutchinson would certainly do that.
The Lions know better than anyone how important depth is at the cornerback position. They were plagued with injuries to their corners and adding a player like Marlon Humphrey could solve a lot of those issues if he's healthy himself.
The Ravens are entering a new era with Jesse Minter and have good financial reason to explore a trade. The Lions are in a position where 2026 is going to be crucial. Humphrey's ability to play on the outside and inside at a high level would have been huge for Detroit this season.
The Saints are in a transition period with their own cap hole to dig out of. That could mean that a veteran like Cesar Ruiz is available. Dan Campbell was with the Saints when Ruiz was drafted out of Michigan.
Ruiz has played guard with the Saints, but he was a center in college. He could either slide over or give them the runway to get either Tate Ratledge, Miles Frazier or a rookie prepared to move into the role.
Green Bay Packers
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): -$2.7 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Guard, Defensive Tackle
Top Trade Targets
The Packers probably don't regret bringing Micah Parsons into town. As long as he recovers from his knee injury he's one of the best defenders in the league. But it's hard to deny they missed Kenny Clark.
Trading for Daron Payne could help that. The Commanders have a logjam of talent on the interior of the defensive line and extending Payne could be difficult. That could open the door for the Packers to get the interior disruptor who could take their defensive front to the next level.
The Packers overhauled their defensive coaching staff with former Cardinals defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon taking over. They also brought over former Bills defensive coordinator to coach the secondary. That could mean a Bills veteran like big slot corner Taron Johnson could come with him as an experienced player at a position of need.
Edge-rusher isn't listed as a top need, but it still shouldn't be surprising if the Packers add to the room. Rashan Gary is overpaid at this point and Lukas Van Ness has disappointed. The Packers could trade either of them and look for an upgrade via trade.
It would be worth calling the Rams as they seem to have an abundance of edge-rushers and they won't be able to pay all of them.
Houston Texans
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): -$6.2 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Interior Offensive Line, Defensive Tackle, Offensive Tackle
Top Trade Targets
- OT Dion Dawkins
- IOL Cesar Ruiz
- DT Javon Hargrave
Trades involving left tackles of Dion Dawkins caliber are incredibly rare. The Trent Williams trade in 2020 is a rare exception and the Texans decision to trade Laremy Tunsil last season is the only other one that springs to mind.
In both cases, the trade probably worked out better for the team acquiring the tackle. That's why the Texans might want to call up the Buffalo Bills and see if trading Dion Dawkins might be part of their plan to get their books right for the 2026 offseason.
Dawkins is still playing at an elite level, but the Bills could save a ton of money by trading him. The new team would have a $16.8 million cap hit. He would immediately upgrade C.J. Stroud's protection and improve the run game.
Cesar Ruiz makes sense for a lot of the same reasons on a smaller scale. He's not nearly as valuable as a franchise left tackle, but his experience at guard could help bolster a Texans offensive line that has to be better in 2026.
DeMeco Ryans system needs the front four to get to the quarterback. Finding interior defensive linemen who can help with that should be an objective this offseason. Javon Hargrave might be in the twilight of his career, but he's played in similar systems.
Indianapolis Colts
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $34.9 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Linebacker, Offensive Tackle, Defensive Tackle
Top Trade Targets
Cutting Zaire Franklin would free up a lot of cash for a Colts team that already has a surplus of cap space. It would also pave the way for them to get aggressive in finding a linebacker who can lead the defense.
The AFC North has two veterans who could make sense as targets. Teddye Buchanan and Trent Simpson have shown flashes that they could take over the linebacker job in Baltimore. With Jesse Minter taking over the Ravens might not feel they need someone of Roquan Smith's financial obligations in the middle of the defense.
His former running mate, Patrick Queen, could also be a trade candidate in Pittsburgh. He hasn't done as well without Smith beside him in Pittsburgh, but he's still a talent upgrade for a Colts defense that could really use Queen's athleticism and production in the middle.
Grover Stewart isn't getting any younger and cutting him would create $12.3 million in cap space. That could be the impetus for getting aggressive and calling the Giants about Dexter Lawrence. He only had half a sack this season, but he's still a unique talent in his ability to be an elite run-stuffer who also averages nearly five sacks a season.
Any of these trade targets would improve the spine of the defense. That's a crucial upgrade for the team this offseason.
Jacksonville Jaguars
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): -$14 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Interior Offensive Line, Defensive Tackle
Top Trade Targets
The Jaguars could stand to upgrade both their center and right guard positions. Robert Hainsey and Patrick Mekari are fine, but not assets. The need for an interior trio remodel could be even worse if Ezra Cleveland is not retained.
Elgton Jenkins has been a fixer on the offensive line for the Packers throughout his career. His ability to play all five positions if needed has been huge. However, a contract dispute last spring combined with an unwelcomed move to center and a season-ending injury could make him available.
The Jags would be wise to at least check out the situation there. Jenkins would be a starter wherever he is most needed.
Greg Newsome II and Montaric Brown are both free agents. The Chiefs have a tough cap situation to manage and have resorted to trading a star cornerback before. They could make McDuffie the next L'Jarius Sneed and the Jags should be interested.
His ability to play both inside and out would pair well with Travis Hunter who might only be a part-time corner.
Gervon Dexter is coming off his best season, but he's also entering the final year of his rookie deal. The Bears have a lot of talent in the defensive tackle room so it would be worth a call to see if he could become Arik Armstead's heir apparent.
Kansas City Chiefs
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): -$54.6 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Running Back, Defensive Tackle
Top Trade Targets
The Chiefs definitely come into the offseason as more likely sellers than buyers on the trade market. They have to clear the most cap space just to get in the black and that could mean trading someone like Trent McDuffie.
That being said, they could use as many draft picks as they can get in those deals to get cost-controlled assets on the roster.
There's still room for a smart GM like Brett Veach to add talent to the roster that won't hurt their cap situation. For instance, Jordan Addison is now extension-eligible, but the Vikings will have a new general manager.
Minnesota could be looking to move on from Addison after he was arrested and charged with misdemeanor trespassing. The charges were later dropped, but he's had mutliple arrests since being draft. He could get a fresh start in Kansas City. He would only account for a $2.6 million cap hit this season.
They could also look at the trade market to bolster their backfield. David Montgomery would be a logical replacement for Kareem Hunt. He would only cost $3.5 million to the Chiefs this season and his role in Detroit dwindled this year behind Jahmyr Gibbs.
Las Vegas Raiders
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $89.3 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, Cornerback, Linebacker
Top Trade Targets
The Raiders have the most cap space in the league and are widely expected to welcome Fernando Mendoza as their franchise quarterback with the No. 1 pick in the draft.
A rookie quarterback's success often hinges on how much support they get. With that in mind, the Raiders would be justified in making a strong offer for A.J. Brown if the Eagles are open to dealing him. He would immediately give Mendoza a reliable No. 1 option and enhance opportunities for the younger receivers on the roster.
It's hard to project fits until the Raiders have a new head coach, but they won't necessarily be tied to Pete Carroll's affinity for taller, longer cornerbacks. That could lead to an inter-division trade offer to the Chiefs for Trent McDuffie.
He's an All-Pro level defender and the Chiefs are in a severe cap crunch.
They could also look to add a young pass-rusher to either pair with Maxx Crosby or replace him. Crosby has been the center of trade speculation since the end of the season. Kayvon Thibodeaux would be a shrewd target.
The Giants pass rush now centers around Brian Burns and Abdul Carter. Thibodeaux would become a top option in Vegas.
Los Angeles Chargers
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $88.6 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Interior Offensive Line, Defensive Tackle, Edge-Rusher
Top Trade Targets
The Chargers are another team who should be a motivated buyer. Jim Harbaugh is now in his third season and there's pressure to get the first playoff win of the Justin Herbert era.
There's always going to be a focus on the trenches with Harbaugh involved so we'll start there. The Bolts got a firsthand lesson in the importance of offensive line depth. With both Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt out for the season, the o-line struggled to hold together.
Making a strong offer for Elgton Jenkins in Green Bay could be a fix. Jenkins is an excellent guard, but he had a contract dispute with the Packers last spring and was moved to center. He could kick back out to guard for the Chargers and immediately become a viable option at tackle if Slater or Alt aren't healthy.
While Joe Hortiz has Green Bay on the phone they might as well talk about Rashan Gary. Harbaugh has strong ties to the edge-rusher from their shared time at Michigan. The Packers should be motivated to part with him as it would create $11 million in cap space to trade him.
That would be a good contingency if they are unable to re-sign Odafe Oweh.
A veteran wide receiver might be on the Chargers wish list after funneling 122 targets to 33-year-old Keenan Allen this season. DJ Moore will be 29 this season and could work after seeing his role cut in Chicago with Rome Odunze and Luther Burden developing.
Los Angeles Rams
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $42.4 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Offensive Tackle, Safety, Cornerback
Top Trade Targets
Sensing a trend here?
The Rams secondary should look much different in 2026 than it did in 2025. Kamren Curl, Cobie Durant and Roger McCreary are all set to hit free agency. The secondary could have used upgrades anyway, but potential departure only ramp up the need.
Trent McDuffie is going to be the top name on a lot of team's trade target list. He's a proven All-Pro talent who is only 25 and the Chiefs cap situation is bad enough that they could consider dealing him.
If so, the Rams should get aggressive to land him. His inside-out versatility and ability to play press-man coverage is the kind of talent that could take the Rams secondary to the next level.
Marlon Humphrey is like the older version of McDuffie in that regard. He's comfortable on the outside and in the slot with the ability to man up good receivers. There's more risk with his age, but he would achieve a similar effect on the defense as a whole.
The Rams could also opt to target a safety via trade. That's a position where experience and communication are huge and Jessie Bates III offers that. Trading him would offer Atlanta valuable cap relief and the Rams would get a seasoned veteran to pair with Kamren Kinchens in the secondary.
Miami Dolphins
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): -$22.3 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, Cornerback, Wide Receiver
Top Trade Targets
The Dolphins offseason is much more likely to be characterized by their trade assets than their targets. Chris Grier is out as general manager and former Packers executive Jon-Eric Sullivan is in.
That could mean that Tua Tagovailoa, Tyreek Hill and even Jaylen Waddle could be on the trading block as the Dolphins try to hit the reset button on their roster.
Dealing the faces of the previous era would make sense. It would allow them to get their future books in a better place while moving on and stockpiling draft picks to rebuild the roster.
That being said, it would make some sense to strategically acquire a few players if the price is right. Davis Mills is the backup in Houston and has some experience with new offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik. The Texans could shed some cap space and the Dolphins would get a veteran with experience in their system.
A young player like Riley Moss could make sense too. He won't cost much financially as he's on the final year of his rookie contract. If the Broncos don't want to extend him with all the talent they will have to pay in the next few years, then the Dolphins should come calling.
Minnesota Vikings
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): -$40.9 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Safety, Quarterback
Top Trade Targets
It's hard to envision the Vikings going into the 2026 season without actual competition for J.J. McCarthy. It was essentially his rookie season, but to put up the numbers he did while throwing to Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison in a Kevin O'Connell offense, is going to put him in a position where he needs a veteran pushing him.
Mac Jones would be an ideal candidate. He has experience with Kyle Shanahan in San Francisco and he's only going to cost a team that trades for him a $3.5 million cap hit.
It would be much harder to figure out the money for a trade involving Kyler Murray. He would cost any team that trades for him $24.9 million. He would also pose a much bigger threat to McCarthy. Still, the Vikings have the defense and the skill talent to be a contender in the NFC and Murray could unlock that in O'Connell's offense.
The Vikings have a need for more cornerback depth. Unfortunately, there aren't a lot of surefire fixes on the trade market that will be in their budget. If they go that route, they will need to target a buy-low candidate on a relatively cheap deal.
Deonte Banks fits that description. The former first-round pick will only cost $2.6 million, but he has 35 starts under his belt and could benefit from playing in Brian Flores' system.
New England Patriots
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $39.2 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Edge-Rusher, Wide Receiver, Offensive Tackle
Top Trade Targets
There are bound to be plenty of teams interested if the Philadelphia Eagles decide to make a A.J. Brown available. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported there's a belief around the league that Brown could be on the move this offseason due to a deteriorating relationship between the receiver and the franchise.
The Patriots should be among the top teams to call if that happens. Stefon Diggs was a huge part of their passing game this season, but he is 32 years old with two more expensive years on his contract if they don't release or trade him.
Dealing for Brown would be a way to ensure that Drake Maye has a dynamic No. 1 receiver and his remaining contract would actually be very team-friendly.
Crosby is the biggest star who could potentially be on the move this offseason. The Patriots have to know that going all-in on Maye's rookie contract window is the best way to maximize their shot at winning championships. Crosby's effort and leadership are tailor-made to be a Mike Vrabel player.
Deonte Banks is the kind of under-the-radar addition that could help the Pats. He has the tools and draft pedigree to become a starter. Carlton Davis III is a short-term answer across from Christian Gonzalez.
New Orleans Saints
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): -$13.6 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Wide Receiver, Guard, Edge-Rusher
Top Trade Targets
The Saints are in a better cap spot than they are in most seasons, but it still wouldn't hurt for them to essentially be sellers in the trade market. It feels much more likely that they would deal players like Alvin Kamara and Pete Werner to stockpile draft picks and clear more cap space than take on a big contract.
A.J. Brown is the lone exception when it comes to big names. Tyler Shough delivered a promising rookie season and Chris Olave's availability is often in question. Brown and the Philadelphia Eagles have had a publicly tense relationship and the team that would receive him in a trade would be getting a very team-friendly deal.
Brown has familiarity with Kellen Moore from his time as the Eagles offensive coordinator. A healthy Olave and Brown would immediately become a dangerous force multiplier for the Saints passing game.
Other trade targets would need to be of the rookie contract variety. Lukas Van Ness comes to mind. The Saints need an heir apparent to Cam Jordan and Van Ness is off to a slow start in Green Bay. Ideally, Van Ness could come in and learn from Jordan to become a running mate for Chase Young.
New York Giants
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $7.9 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Offensive Tackle, Cornerback, Wide Receiver
Top Trade Targets
The Giants paid up to get John Harbaugh to lead things in New York. It shouldn't be surprising if there are at least a few free agents brought in from Baltimore to help implement his vision and system.
There could be a trade target or two from Harbaugh's old post as well. Namely, Marlon Humphrey. He would help address the Giants need at cornerback. He would not only give the room experience and leadership, but his versatility would help them get their best secondary on the field.
Greg Van Roten, Jermaine Eluemunor and Evan Neal are all set to become free agents. The offensive line could be in for an overhaul and Cesar Ruiz's experience on the inside would make for a smooth transition.
The wide receiver market could be interesting for the Giants. Wan'dale Robinson had a huge breakout season, but they'll have to decide if he'll continue to produce at that level for the contract he could command.
If they decide that isn't the case they could circle back on a name like Jaylen Waddle after showing interest in him at the trade deadline.
New York Jets
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $74.4 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, Defensive Tackle, Cornerback
Top Trade Targets
There might be a theme here. Oregon quarterback Dante Moore's decision to go back to Eugene for a season has really changed the Jets outlook at quarterback.
Instead of having an obvious choice of passer with the No. 2 pick, the Jets might have to take a look at free agency or the trade market to find their next quarterback. Daniel Jones and Malik Willis are free agent possibilities.
However, the Jets could have to swing a trade if Jones and Willis sign elsewhere.
Aaron Glenn probably needs to win right away. That should lead him to scope out a trade for Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray first. Murray's relationship with the Arizona Cardinals may have run its course with Arizona getting a new head coach next season.
Murray played just five games in 2024 with injury, but he's made 87 starts with a career passer rating of 92.2.
Mac Jones could be the next reclamation project who actually turns out to be a good starter. He was 5-3 as the starter for the 49ers this season, filling in admirably when Brock Purdy went down with an injury.
If Greg Roman winds up with the Jets vacant offensive coordinator job then Anthony Richardson could be an interesting developmental dart throw.
Philadelphia Eagles
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $18.4 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Tight End, Cornerback, Safety
Top Trade Targets
Right tackle isn't listed as one of the top three needs for the Eagles, but that could change quickly if Lane Johnson retires. He's 35 years old and had his season cut short with a Lisfranc injury, so that's on the table.
If that's the case, the Eagles might have to get aggressive in filling his role. Jawaan Taylor's time in Kansas City has not gone as expected. He could become a cap casualty as the Chiefs have the biggest cap space hole to dig themselves out of.
Offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland and the Eagles have been able to rehabilitate offensive linemen careers in the past. They are one of the few teams who could potentially get Taylor playing at a high level.
Outside of attempting to find a starting tackle, the Eagles aren't in the cap situation to go hunting for big contracts on the trade market. But Howie Roseman is usually willing to deal to find reclamation projects.
The same could be said for wide receiver. Right now, it's low on the list of priorities, but if A.J. Brown is on the way out then it becomes a position that could be targeted. The Eagles would probably want to avoid targeting an expensive player, but Quentin Johnston could be fairly cheap entering the final year of his rookie contract.
Of course, the Eagles could still look to fill their WR3 role even if Brown is staying. With new offensive coordinator Sean Mannion coming in from Green Bay, the Eagles could look to add one of their many talented receivers.
Wicks could see an uptick in role by coming to Philly.
Pittsburgh Steelers
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $45.6 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, Wide Receiver, Cornerback
Top Trade Targets
The Steelers are not an organization that builds to lose. Mike Tomlin was speculatively on the hot seat after four first-round playoff exits in six seasons, but Pittsburgh has not had a losing season since 2003.
That's why it feels like they would be the kind of team that would acquire Kyler Murray if Aaron Rodgers doesn't come back. The veteran quarterback could reunite with Mike McCarthy now that he's in Pittsburgh, but he's 42 years old at this point.
Murray would be a veteran option who has won in the league before and would only account for a $24.9 million cap hit in 2026.
Regardless of who throws the ball next season, the Steelers could use a high-end receiver to pair with DK Metcalf. Kenneth Gainwell and Pat Freiermuth were tied for the second-most receiving yards on the team this season.
Brian Thomas Jr. saw his role and production slashed last season in Jacksonville. He wouldn't come cheap, but he would provide a talented receiver on a rookie contract.
Riley Moss would be a high-level solution to the Steelers need at cornerback. The Broncos have a lot of talented young defender and they aren't going to be able to afford all of them.
San Francisco 49ers
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $31.3 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Wide Receiver, Guard, Safety
Top Trade Targets
The 49ers are in the black to start the offseason, but they still have a lot of expensive pieces to balance on their roster. That might have them eyeing trade targets who are still on their rookie contracts.
Grant Cohn of Sports Illustrated has already reported that the Niners want to trade for Vikings wide receiver Jordan Addison. He's due for an extension, but San Francisco could see him as a way to solve their Brandon Aiyuk-sized hole in the receiver room.
Aiyuk is likely on his way out after the organization voided the guarantees in his contract.
Brian Thomas Jr. would be a similar target. His role was reduced for the Jaguars in his second season. He would still command a good trade package based on his rookie season, but the 49ers would have a new No. 1 receiver on a rookie contract.
The secondary was a problem for San Francisco all season. Deommodore Lenoir could be a trade candidate and the Niners will need to bring in new talent.
Riley Moss has been good for the Broncos, but it's unclear if they'll want to sign him to a lucrative extension when they just drafted Jahdae Barron.
Seattle Seahawks
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $74.9 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Interior Offensive Line, Cornerback, Edge-Rusher
Top Trade Targets
It's good to be the Seattle Seahawks right now. Not only are they prepping to take on the Patriots in the Super Bowl, but they also have one of the best cap situations in the league right now.
That means they can get aggressive to address the few needs the team has. Rather than hoping to hit on another draft pick, they could swing a move for a proven starter like Elgton Jenkins.
Jenkins has the ability to play all five spots on the line, but guard is his best position. After getting move to center by the Packers, it doesn't make sense for them to keep him on his current contract. That could prompt a move to the Pacific Northwest.
Pairing him with Grey Zabel would give the Seahawks a much better line in 2026.
The cornerback room will be the most interesting to track, though. Riq Woolen and Josh Jobe are both free agents. Mike Macdonald's experience with Marlon Humphrey could make him a good veteran addition.
They could also afford to roll the dice on a player like Kristian Fulton. He's a good cover corner when healthy and the Chiefs are in a cap situation that could force them to take below-market offers on players.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $24.8 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Linebacker, Edge-Rusher, Tight End
Top Trade Targets
The Bucs have some cap space already and that's before they do the typical cap gymnastics that every team does to create space. Given how wide-open the NFC South was this season, they could get aggressive to push chips to the middle of the 2026 table.
That could mean covering for the potential loss of Lavonte David. The 36-year-old linebacker is a prime candidate to retire which would leave a hole in the middle of the Bucs defense. Patrick Queen would be a fun fit in Todd Bowles' blitz-heavy scheme.
Tampa needs to get more dynamic on the edge and Rashan Gary could use a change of scenery. The Packers brought in Micah Parsons, in part, because Gary didn't live up to his contract. However, there are only two years left on his deal and it would be easy manipulate the salary through an extension or adding void years.
The Bucs also have an important decision with Cade Otton this offseason. He has posted over 1,100 receiving yards over the last two seasons, but he's set to hit free agency. Calling up the Vikings to see what the price for T.J. Hockenson could be an intriguing alternative.
Tennessee Titans
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $100.4 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Edge-Rusher, Wide Receiver, Interior Offensive Line
Top Trade Targets
The Titans are flush with cap space and have a wide-open roster that just needs players to build around. That's going to allow them to target anyone with a big money contract or young players who are in line for a costly extension.
Jermaine Johnson II and Jordan Addison would fall in the latter bucket.
The Athletic's Dianna Russini reported that the Jets had an asking price of a second-round pick or better for Jermaine Johnson II at the trade deadline. New head coach Robert Saleh has first-hand experience with Johnson and might feel he's worth the cost and a new extension. He was in New York for his Pro Bowl campaign as a second-year player in 2023.
Sports Illustrated's Grant Cohn has reported that Jordan Addison is a trade target for the San Francisco 49ers. The Vikings just fired general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah so the receiver could be available. He is an electric young talent who could be the top option in Tennessee.
The Titans could also prefer a more stabilizing veteran presence in the receiver room. Calvin Ridely is likely on the way out as a cap casualty so D.J. Moore could fill that role. He's helped the Bears get their offense going, but is also replaceable in Chicago with Rome Odunze and Luther Burden ready for bigger roles.
Washington Commanders
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Cap Space (per Over the Cap): $71.4 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Edge-Rusher, Wide Receiver, Safety
Top Trade Targets
The Commanders pulled off one of the most high profile trades of the 2025 offseason. They were able to bring in Laremy Tunsil when franchise tackles rarely hit the trade market.
That move didn't prevent them from a fall from the NFC Championship Game to 5-12 this season. But that doesn't mean they shouldn't take the risk on swinging another big trade.
A healthy Jayden Daniels in 2026 could have Washington right back in contention. They also have the cap space to get aggressive in bringing on a big contract.
That would enable them to chase big names like Maxx Crosby and Tyreek Hill. Both might be unhappy with their current situations, but carry major financial obligations for any team that trades for them.
They should also be calling the Jacksonville Jaguars to ensure that they have plans to feature Brian Thomas Jr. next season. The second-year receiver saw a major dip in production after a stellar rookie season.
He had a great connection with Jayden Daniels when they were teammates at LSU. Pairing quarterbacks with their former college targets has worked out well for teams recently. The Commanders should be willing to pay up to reunite Thomas with Daniels if the Jags are looking to trade him.
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