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Dream Offseason Trade Scenario for Every NFL Team
The NFL offseason is a time for general managers to do business.
Even before the new calendar year on March 11, teams can agree in principle on trade deals. At the NFL Scouting Combine, club representatives will get an idea of which players are available and what moves can be officially made in a few weeks.
Every team has a list of players its willing to trade or acquire with an appropriate offer. We'll discuss potential inbound and outbound deals that would be most beneficial to each club.
Each trade idea highlights a player or draft move as the focus of a dream scenario for acquiring or giving up assets in the context of roster needs and fit.
Arizona Cardinals: Trading QB Kyler Murray for a Day 2 Pick in the 2026 Draft
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Kyler Murray only started in five games for the Arizona Cardinals this past season, in part because of a foot injury that knocked him out of action. The team named Jacoby Brissett its starter while Murray recovered, allowing the backup to finish the campaign.
According to The Athletic's Doug Haller, the Cardinals and Murray "seemed ready to move on" at the end of the 2025 term.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the Cardinals "would like to explore" a trade for Murray. All signs point to a split unless the quarterback's contract impedes progress in substantial negotiations with other teams.
ESPN's Josh Weinfuss believes Arizona is open to trade talks with a demand for a third-rounder. If that's the case, the Cardinals would be happy with a top-100 pick that gives them a chance to take a developmental signal-caller on the back end of Day 2.
Atlanta Falcons: Acquiring QB Tua Tagovailoa at a Discount Rate
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New Miami Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan made it clear that Tua Tagovailoa isn't part of the team's future plans when he talked about the need to "find our guy" at quarterback.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Dolphins are willing to pay a portion of Tagovailoa's salary to make a deal more palatable for a potential suitor. The 27-year-old signal-caller is guaranteed $54 million this year.
The Atlanta Falcons haven't committed to Michael Penix Jr. as their starter. Schefter reported that they're expected to release Kirk Cousins, who served as a backup until Penix suffered a season-ending knee injury last year.
The Falcons could re-sign Cousins to a cheaper deal than his current one, but they should consider an upgrade who can start in case Penix isn't ready for Week 1.
Because of Penix's extensive history of knee injuries, Atlanta should be ready to pivot at quarterback in any given season.
Tagovailoa has missed several games because of concussions, but he's performed at a Pro Bowl level and helped lead the Dolphins to the playoffs twice. He could flourish under two-time Coach of the Year Kevin Stefanski.
Baltimore Ravens: Moving Down in the Draft for WR Denzel Boston
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In recent years, the Baltimore Ravens have struggled to develop receivers. Zay Flowers is on an upward trajectory following consecutive Pro Bowl seasons, but the team doesn't have a solid No. 2 option behind him.
Rashod Bateman regressed after he signed a three-year, $36.75 million extension last offseason, hauling in 19 out of 38 targets for 224 yards and two touchdowns in 2025. DeAndre Hopkins will turn 34 in June, and he's set to be a free agent.
The Ravens can target big-bodied receiver Denzel Boston in the upcoming draft. They may be able to move down and add more picks, while still being in a good spot to take him.
As tight end Mark Andrews ages, Lamar Jackson needs another reliable red-zone threat, especially with Flowers, who's 5'9", atop the receiver depth chart. Boston can fill that void.
Over his last two years at Washington, Boston registered 20 touchdown receptions. Bleacher Report scout Damian Parson highlighted how the 6'4", 209-pounder beats defenders.
"For a receiver of his size and stature, Boston is surprisingly quick. He runs efficient double moves, displaying his ability to sink his hips and drive out of the break to pull away from defenders. Boston's routes are run with intent. As a result, he creates separation against man-to-man coverage. His short-area quickness as a route-runner places defensive backs in conflict when left on an island."
The Ravens can add an immediate contributor at wide receiver and use the extra draft capital to address other needs.
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Buffalo Bills: Trading for WR A.J. Brown
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This blockbuster move will generate lasting buzz, and it would be an ideal fit for both parties if the Buffalo Bills can reallocate their cap space to gain more flexibility. The Bills are about $12.3 million over the cap threshold.
Financial hurdles aside, the Bills can make a splashy move that will transform their mediocre pass-catching group. In 2025, Khalil Shakir led the team with 72 catches and 719 receiving yards. He's the best of a unit that desperately needs a go-to target and an explosive playmaker. A.J. Brown checks both boxes.
According to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, the Philadelphia Eagles have not yet engaged in trade talks involving Brown.
However, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler talked to league executives who expect the Eagles to at least entertain offers for the three-time Pro Bowler.
Bills general manager Brandon Beane balked at the criticism of his receiver group, but after Keon Coleman's disappointing second season, the team needs to take a big swing at a proven playmaker who can elevate the passing attack.
Carolina Panthers: Trading WR Xavier Legette for an Early Day 3 Pick
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Xavier Legette hasn't come close to playing up to first-round expectations. He's been mostly inefficient in two seasons, hauling in 84 of his 148 targets for 860 yards and seven touchdowns. Between 2023 and 2024, the receiver's catch rate dropped from 58.3 to 54.7 percent.
Furthermore, Jalen Coker, who went undrafted in 2024, has outperformed Legette, hauling in 65 out of 89 targets for 872 yards and five touchdowns. He'll be an exclusive-rights free agent, which allows the Panthers to retain him on a one-year tender.
Behind 2025 Offensive Rookie of the Year Tetairoa McMillan and Coker, Legette is at best the third option in Carolina's passing attack.
The Panthers won't be able to flip Legette for a premium draft pick, but they should quietly put him on the trade block and hope to get a fourth-rounder for him. He's not going to reach his full potential in Carolina.
Chicago Bears: Trading WR DJ Moore for a Day 2 Pick in the 2026 Draft
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The Chicago Bears have a crowded pass-catching group, and DJ Moore's receiving numbers have been on the decline since 2023.
Don't expect Moore's production to trend back in the right direction as wideout Luther Burden III and tight end Colston Loveland gain experience in head coach Ben Johnson's offense. After seeing 140 targets in 2024, he saw 85 targets last season.
General manager Ryan Pace can look to deal Moore before he turns 30 next year, while the seven-year veteran is still making the most of his dwindling opportunities in the offense.
As a receiver and ball-carrier, Moore scored on crucial plays in the previous campaign, particularly late in games against the Cincinnati Bengals, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Green Bay Packers.
Nonetheless, Rome Odunze, Burden and Loveland are all younger than 25. They're the present and future of the Bears' passing attack. Chicago can potentially flip Moore for a third-rounder and use the pick on a defensive prospect.
Cincinnati Bengals: Trading for DL Dexter Lawrence II
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In 2025, the Cincinnati Bengals gave up the most rushing yards and allowed the second-most yards per carry (5.2). They need to bolster their defensive line, especially with Trey Hendrickson and Joseph Ossai set to become free agents.
Even if the Bengals re-sign Hendrickson and/or Ossai, they can beef up the interior of their defensive line with a 300-plus-pounder who stops the run and disrupts the opposing team's passing game with pressure between the guards.
Giants beat reporters mentioned Dexter Lawrence II as a long-shot trade candidate before the 2025 deadline. SNY's Connor Hughes doesn't think it will happen, but he wouldn't rule out the possibility this offseason.
"I hedge toward no, Lawrence won't be traded, but it can't be ruled out." Hughes wrote in his mailbag response. "If dealt, the Giants would free $13 million with a $13 million dead charge. That's not bad. The cap relief plus decent return compensation is something they'd have to consider."
Lawrence had a down 2025 campaign, logging a half-sack and four tackles for loss, but he recorded career highs in sacks (nine) and tackles for loss (eight) two years ago. If the Bengals get the 2024 version of him, they would field a more stout defense than in years past.
Cleveland Browns: Acquiring OT Walker Little
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The Cleveland Browns' starting five offensive linemen are set to become free agents. While they may re-sign a couple or a few, the unit needs a complete overhaul with young talent.
Guard Joel Bitonio is 34; he contemplated retirement last offseason. Guard Wyatt Teller, 31, has missed four games in back-to-back seasons. Right tackle Jack Conklin, who turns 32 in August, has an extensive injury history and has missed 43 games since the 2021 campaign.
Cleveland should call the Jacksonville Jaguars about Walker Little.
Late in the 2025 term, Cole Van Lanen started at left tackle, replacing Walker, who missed time with a concussion. The Jaguars signed the former to a three-year, $51 million extension in January, which may indicate the team will make a permanent change on Trevor Lawrence's blind side. If that's the case, Little could be on the trade block.
At 26, Little has started in 39 out of 70 games across five seasons. He would bring valuable experience to the Browns' offensive line at a below-average $14.5 million cap number for a starting left tackle.
Dallas Cowboys: Acquiring EDGE Maxx Crosby
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The Dallas Cowboys are one of four teams with multiple first-round picks in the upcoming draft. They can include one of their Day 1 selections in a blockbuster trade package for Maxx Crosby.
Ironically, the Las Vegas Raiders want a return that compares to what the Cowboys received from the Green Bay Packers in the Micah Parsons deal. Dallas can start the conversation with pick No. 12 or 20 and find out how far it can get without giving up its 2027 first-rounder.
If the Cowboys pull off a seismic trade for Crosby, they could have a dominant defensive line that also features Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark on the interior.
In 2025, Dallas gave up the most points and passing yards. It can address the secondary in the draft. A young group of defensive backs would benefit from playing behind a strong front led by Crosby, a five-time Pro Bowler.
Denver Broncos: Acquiring WR Jaylen Waddle
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This is a long-shot dream scenario, but not far-fetched given the Miami Dolphins' roster turnover on Monday.
The Dolphins have a new general manager and coaching staff that may continue to tear down the roster in a full-blown rebuild. Jaylen Waddle has a tradeable contract that only counts $11.6 million against the salary cap.
The Denver Broncos may have to overpay in draft compensation to acquire Waddle, but it may be worth it while in a Super Bowl window.
The Broncos need more big plays in the passing game. Courtland Sutton averaged 13.7 yards per catch, but Troy Franklin, Marvin Mims Jr., and Evan Engram all averaged fewer than 11 yards per grab. As a rookie, Pat Bryant averaged 12.2 yards per reception, but he struggled to stay healthy late in the season.
In 2025, Waddle played through injuries. He only missed one game and racked up 14.2 yards per reception. The 27-year-old doesn't have the accolades of a premier wideout, but his playmaking ability would move the needle for Denver's aerial attack.
Remember, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Broncos "reached out" to the Dolphins about Waddle's availability before the 2025 trade deadline.
Detroit Lions: Trading for EDGE Jermaine Johnson
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Before the 2025 trade deadline, the New York Jets dealt cornerback Sauce Gardner and defensive tackle Quinnen Williams to the Indianapolis Colts and Dallas Cowboys, respectively. According to SNY's Connor Hughes, they turned down offers that included a second-rounder for Jermaine Johnson.
Ahead of a draft that features a deep group of pass-rushers, the Jets may be more willing to trade Johnson. He's entering the final year of his rookie deal, which will cost $13.4 million against the salary cap.
Also, in 2024, Johnson tore his Achilles and missed 15 games. Last season, he played in 14 contests, logging three sacks, 13 pressures, and five tackles for loss. Because of those modest numbers, the Jets could make him available on the trade block. If so, Detroit may be able to acquire him.
Johnson, a 2023 Pro Bowler, would fill a need on the edge opposite Aidan Hutchinson.
Green Bay Packers: Acquiring CB Tyson Campbell
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The Green Bay Packers' boundary cornerbacks struggled in coverage last season. Keisean Nixon, Carrington Valentine and Nate Hobbs all allowed passer ratings above 105. Valentine surrendered seven touchdowns in coverage, and Nixon gave up six. Hobbs missed six games because of injuries.
Green Bay should be aggressive on the trade market for a cornerback who can lead a below-average group. New Packers defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon has experience as a cornerbacks coach; he could help a young secondary defender reach his peak potential.
The Packers can inquire about Tyson Campbell, a 25-year-old who bounced between the Jacksonville Jaguars and Cleveland Browns last season. He benefitted from a change of scenery, allowing three touchdowns and an 84.8 passer rating in 12 games with the Browns, compared to giving up three touchdowns and a 106.4 passer rating in five outings with the Jaguars.
This offseason, Cleveland hired a new coaching staff, so there's no guarantee that Campbell fits into the team's short-term plans. If not, the five-year veteran could be available on the trade block and find a long-term home elsewhere. Given the Packers' need for an upgrade at cornerback, Green Bay would be a potential landing spot.
Houston Texans: Acquiring IOL Jackson Powers-Johnson
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The Houston Texans have multiple question marks across their offensive line.
Aireontae Ersery showed enough promise to hold on to the starting left tackle spot. Tytus Howard has lined up at four different positions. Aside from those two, Houston should look for upgrades. Guard Ed Ingram and tackle Trent Brown will be free agents.
Though it may be a long shot, the Texans should inquire about Jackson Powers-Johnson.
Last season, the Las Vegas Raiders moved Powers-Johnson from center to right guard. He's played well at both positions, but the 2023 Rimington Trophy winner may want to move back to his natural position at the pivot. If the 23-year-old is open to playing in either of the two interior spots, offensive coordinator Nick Caley can figure out where he fits in his system.
This offseason, the Raiders introduced Powers-Johnson to his third coaching regime, so there's no guarantee that he's a keeper in new head coach Klint Kubiak's system. Furthermore, general manager John Spytek didn't draft him.
If Las Vegas dangles Powers-Johnson on the trade block, Houston would be a realistic landing spot.
Indianapolis Colts: Trading QB Anthony Richardson Sr. for Anything
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Even if Daniel Jones isn't fully recovered by Week 1 of the next season, the Indianapolis Colts may overlook Anthony Richardson Sr. as a fill-in starter.
Richardson's inconsistencies and injuries in his first two years are two reasons why the Colts signed Jones last offseason. Last summer, they battled through the preseason, and Jones won the starting job. Richardson continued to deal with injuries, hurting his hand in the preseason and fracturing the orbital bone in his eye during an October practice.
In 17 games, Richardson has thrown for 11 touchdowns and 13 interceptions with a 50.6 percent completion rate. He's also rushed for 634 yards and 10 touchdowns. Another team may be more patient with his development.
Richardson only started one full year of college at Florida and still has plenty of room to grow if he stays healthy. All it takes is one club to see his potential, making a trade possible.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Acquiring DT Devonte Wyatt
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As a first-rounder from the 2022 draft, Devonte Wyatt fell short of expectations early in his career and then worked his way into a pass-rushing role. He's played 50 percent or fewer of the defensive snaps in three of the previous four seasons. In December of 2025, the 27-year-old suffered a season-ending ankle injury.
Despite a limited role, Wyatt has recorded at least four sacks in three consecutive campaigns, but that may not be enough to justify what will be a rising cost after his cap number hits $12.9 million this year.
The Green Bay Packers could look to trade Wyatt if they don't intend to offer him an extension before his contract expires in 2027. With that being a possibility, former Packers linebacker coach and defensive run-game coordinator Anthony Campanile may push for a reunion via trade.
In 2025, the Jaguars allowed the fewest rushing yards, but they finished 27th in sacks. Wyatt can make an impact on passing downs as a disruptive interior defender who gets after the quarterback.
Kansas City Chiefs: Trading Up for EDGE Rueben Bain Jr.
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The Kansas City Chiefs haven't held a top-10 draft pick since they moved up to the No. 10 spot for Patrick Mahomes in 2017. They took an aggressive approach to change the complexion of their offense and should consider doing the same for the defense.
On the surface, the Chiefs defense had a solid 2025 campaign, ranking in sixth in scoring and 10th in total yards, but the unit struggled mightily to get off the field on third downs, giving the fourth-highest success rate.
Defensive tackle Chris Jones is still a Pro Bowl-caliber player, but he's disappeared in stretches over the previous two years. The 31-year-old is a less dominant player compared to a few seasons ago. Mike Danna's sack and pressure rates have been on the decline since 2023, and he doesn't have any guaranteed money left on his deal. The 29-year-old is a salary-cap-cut candidate. George Karlaftis' sack rate has also dropped over the last two seasons.
Rueben Bain Jr. can transform the Chiefs defense with his ability to collapse the pocket and penetrate to make plays in the backfield. The 6'3", 275-pounder recorded 33.5 tackles for loss and 20.5 sacks in three collegiate terms at Miami.
Opposite Karlaftis, Bain would make an immediate impact on all three downs. Kansas City could stay in the No. 9 spot and take the best available prospect, which isn't the worst-case scenario, but a move up to snag arguably the best defensive prospect in the draft can change the long-term trajectory of Steve Spagnuolo's unit.
Las Vegas Raiders: Trading Maxx Crosby in a Micah Parsons-like Deal
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Appearing on The Rich Eisen Show, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero said, "There's still a lot to repair" between the Las Vegas Raiders and star edge-rusher Maxx Crosby.
Against Crosby's wishes, the Raiders shut him down for the final two games of the 2025 season. He played through a knee injury for months before the team ended his campaign.
Aside from lingering sourness over that team decision, Fox Sports' Jay Glazer doesn't think Crosby wants to go through another rebuild. The Raiders hired Klint Kubiak, their fifth full-time head coach since 2020, and promoted defensive line coach and run-game coordinator Rob Leonard, who brings stability amid another offseason reset.
Glazer believes the Raiders can get more for Crosby than what the Green Bay Packers traded to the Dallas Cowboys for Micah Parsons, two first-rounders, and defensive tackle Kenny Clark.
NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported that the Raiders would be open to trading Crosby if they could secure a return comparable to the Cowboys' haul for Parsons.
For now, Crosby hasn't requested a trade, but Las Vegas might open for business if it receives a blow-away offer.
Los Angeles Chargers: Acquiring EDGE Alex Highsmith
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Last offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers signed edge-rusher T.J. Watt to a three-year extension worth $123 million. They may now have to decide between Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig for the long term.
Highsmith has no guaranteed money for the final two years of his deal. Coming off a 7.5-sack campaign, Herbig is entering a contract year.
Herbig is four years younger than Highsmith, who's missed 10 games over the last two seasons. The Steelers could entertain trade proposals for the latter, then promote the former to a full-time starting role opposite Watt.
If Highsmith is the odd man out of the Steelers' pass-rushing rotation, he could be a solid addition to the Los Angeles Chargers' edge-rusher group.
The Chargers could lose Odafe Oweh in free agency, and Khalil Mack might retire. In Los Angeles, Highsmith can balance the pass rush as a more productive veteran than Bud Dupree.
With Pro Bowler Tuli Tuipulotu commanding attention on one side, Highsmith could take advantage of one-on-one opportunities on his side of the line.
Los Angeles Rams: Moving Up in the Draft for OT Spencer Fano
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The Los Angeles Rams have a void to fill at right tackle after 11-year veteran Rob Havenstein announced his retirement. The 33-year-old started in 148 games with the team. Last year, he missed 10 outings, and Warren McClendon Jr. filled in for him.
Although he played well initially in place of Havenstein, McClendon struggled in pass protection down the stretch and in Los Angeles' playoff loss to the Seattle Seahawks.
McClendon could be a decent option to start for the long term, but the Rams can make a move for projected top-10 pick Spencer Fano.
Fano has experience at both tackle spots, which is a plus. Bleacher Report scout Brandon Thorn ranked him as the top prospect at the position over Miami's Francis Mauigoa, who could transition to guard, and Alabama's Kadyn Proctor.
Los Angeles holds the No. 13 pick, which is from the Atlanta Falcons, who moved up for edge-rusher James Pearce Jr. last year. It also holds the No. 29 pick. General manager Les Snead can make an aggressive move up for a high-upside prospect who fills a key roster need.
Miami Dolphins: Trading QB Tua Tagovailoa for a Day 2 Pick in the 2026 Draft
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The Miami Dolphins are in the same situation as the Arizona Cardinals—in search of a trade partner interested in their high-priced quarterback.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the Dolphins are willing to pay a portion of Tagovailoa's contract to facilitate a trade. In other words, Miami is eager to move on from the 27-year-old quarterback.
Tagovailoa told reporters that he would be open to a fresh start elsewhere, which makes a trade more likely. Even though his history of concussions will raise concerns with other teams, he led the league in passing yards (4,624) in his 2023 Pro Bowl year, completed a league-high 72.9 percent of his passes the following term and guided the Dolphins to the playoffs in back-to-back years.
At a discounted rate, Tagovailoa could be a value addition for a quarterback-needy team. Because Miami is willing to pay a portion of his salary, it could get a Day 2 pick in this year's draft for him.
Minnesota Vikings: Acquiring QB Kyler Murray
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The Minnesota Vikings are a quarterback away from being a playoff contender.
In four seasons under head coach Kevin O'Connell, the Vikings clinched postseason berths with Kirk Cousins in 2022 and Sam Darnold in 2024. Because of Cousins' season-ending knee injury and J.J. McCarthy's uneven development, they didn't qualify in the other two campaigns.
After Minnesota fired general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, who moved up one spot to draft McCarthy, ESPN's Kevin Seifert reported that "all bets are off" for McCarthy's future with the team.
Recently, O'Connell talked about bringing in veteran competition for McCarthy, but following Adofo-Mensah's dismissal, he can take that objective one step further and replace the 23-year-old signal-caller with a proven player.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that the Cardinals "are likely" to move on from Kyler Murray. If the Vikings clear enough cap space, they could skip the free-agent courting process and offer a third-round pick for him.
Murray could rediscover his Pro Bowl form, teaming up with two-time All-Pro wide receiver Justin Jefferson and help bring the Vikings back to playoff contention.
New England Patriots: Acquiring WR DJ Moore
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Last offseason, the New England Patriots splurged in free agency, signing several starting-caliber players on both sides of the ball. This year, they should focus on strengthening Drake Maye's supporting cast.
New England gambled on an investment in Stefon Diggs, who was recovering from a torn ACL, and it paid off. He caught 85 passes for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns, but the 32-year-old isn't a dynamic playmaker who makes a ton of big plays.
The Patriots need more speed at receiver. Kayshon Boutte, Mack Hollins, and DeMario Douglas are decent wideouts, though an upgrade over them could help Maye make All-Pro strides in his third season.
The Chicago Bears have a three-receiver set that features DJ Moore, Rome Odunze, and Luther Burden III. Moore, 28, is the oldest of the trio and only has one more year of guaranteed money on his deal. Also, he saw a significant drop in target share between 2024 and 2025, as Burden and tight end Colston Loveland took on significant roles in the passing attack.
Chicago may be willing to trade Moore for draft capital and shift focus toward developing its younger pass-catchers. If that's the case, the Patriots should make an offer to the Bears for the proven veteran, who can beat defenders over the top and add a new wrinkle to the ground game as a gadget ball-carrier. Moore would bring much-needed juice to a slow-paced offense.
New Orleans Saints: Trading QB Derek Carr for Anything
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On the Home Grown podcast, with his brother David Carr, Derek Carr confirmed that he's open to coming out of retirement, though he would only do it for a team that could win a Super Bowl.
Carr's specification narrows down the list to playoff contenders such as the Indianapolis Colts, if they don't re-sign Daniel Jones, Minnesota Vikings and Pittsburgh Steelers.
The New Orleans Saints have their starting quarterback in Tyler Shough, who took over the job midway through his 2025 rookie season and improved through the second half of the campaign. Yet they still hold Carr's contractual rights, so if the 34-year-old comes out of retirement, his new team would need to trade for him.
This year, Carr's contract counts $36.7 million in dead cap on the Saints' books. New Orleans would get some cap relief if a club acquires him.
New York Giants: Trading No. 5 Selection for Multiple Premium Picks
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In the final two weeks of the 2025 season, the New York Giants dropped from No. 1 to No. 5 in the 2026 draft order, which deflated the fanbase a bit, but they can attempt to trade their first-rounder for additional selections to build a young nucleus.
In a draft that doesn't feature multiple top-tier quarterback prospects, teams that want to move down may not find many takers, but the Giants may be able to strike a deal with a club that covets a top edge-rusher or offensive tackle.
As Jermaine Eluemunor prepares for free agency, Big Blue has a need at right tackle, though it can get a quality starter at the position on the back end of the first round or early on Day 2 in a deep class.
General manager Joe Schoen has a shaky draft track record. He needs more picks to cover for potential whiffs.
New York Jets: Trading Back to Acquire Another 2027 First-Round Pick
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The New York Jets' fantasy would be the Las Vegas Raiders sliding back one spot. In that scenario, Gang Green would take quarterback Fernando Mendoza. But that seems like a far-fetched idea after Geno Smith's abysmal, turnover-ridden year in Las Vegas.
In a more realistic dream scenario, the Jets may be able to move back from either the No. 2 or No. 16 spot for another 2027 first-rounder, which would give them a total of four for next year's draft.
General manager Darren Mougey should play the long game for his franchise quarterback. Assuming he has the leeway to retain his job for another year, the Jets can roll with a bridge-gap signal-caller in 2026 and then maneuver for a top quarterback prospect and a few other high-end collegiate standouts next offseason.
So, even if Gang Green doesn't get the No. 1 overall pick for the 2027 draft, it would still have the resources to move up for a signal-caller while filling other needs on Day 1.
Philadelphia Eagles: Acquiring EDGE Rashan Gary
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If the Philadelphia Eagles lose Jaelan Phillips in free agency, they'll be in desperate need of an impact pass-rusher. Jalyx Hunt made strides in his second year, but Nolan Smith hasn't played up to first-rounder expectations.
Based on general manager Howie Roseman's tendency to stock up on offensive and defensive linemen, he could be aggressive in an attempt to add a veteran pass-rusher. Don't be surprised if Rashan Gary is on his radar.
Typically, the Packers are hesitant to negotiate with players who have multiple years left on their contracts, but Gary is unlikely to play out the 2026 season on a non-guranteed deal. Expect the 2024 Pro Bowler to push for a restructured pact for financial security following back-to-back 7.5-sack seasons.
If the Packers aren't willing to work with Gary on a new deal, Roseman may be one of several general managers to make an offer for him.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Packaging DB Jalen Ramsey in Deal for Multiple Picks
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When the Pittsburgh Steelers acquired Jalen Ramsey from the Miami Dolphins, they were hoping to get a lockdown cornerback on the back end of his prime.
After early-season struggles at his natural position, Ramsey transitioned to safety and made the AFC Pro Bowl roster. In a similar vein, Hall of Famer Charles Woodson moved from cornerback to safety, which extended his career by a few years, but he had been a ballhawk.
Ramsey has seen his interception totals drop since 2022, and he gave up seven touchdowns while allowing an 118.1 passer rating in coverage. Also, his lack of speed limits the ground he can cover downfield.
Entering his age-32 term, Ramsey's contract counts $19.5 million against the cap. While the Steelers may feel good about how his skill set translates to safety, they probably would prefer to either restructure his deal or trade him at that cost.
Pittsburgh can bundle Ramsey with a draft pick to entice potential suitors.
San Francisco 49ers: Trading WR Brandon Aiyuk for Anything
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General manager John Lynch told reporters that Brandon Aiyuk's tenure with the San Francisco 49ers will come to an end.
"It's safe to say he's played his last snap as a Niner."
With that clear message, teams will likely wait for the 49ers to release Aiyuk after they voided the guarantees in his contract.
Nonetheless, a club interested in Aiyuk may not want to go through the waiting game for him to make his choice in free agency. With a modest offer, a general manager could see an opportunity to acquire a 27-year-old receiver who racked up 75 catches for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns in 2023.
Though a trade scenario for a disgruntled player who hasn't played a snap since 2024 because of a torn ACL and MCL is unlikely, the 49ers would probably take anything a team is willing to give up to get something out of an extension that went bad within months.
Seattle Seahawks: Acquiring WR Darnell Mooney
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The Seattle Seahawks will likely lose Rashid Shaheed in free agency. They acquired him before the trade deadline in a logical move because of his familiarity with Klint Kubiak's offense.
As Kubiak moves on to be the Las Vegas Raiders head coach, Shaheed could follow him there. Regardless, the Seahawks receiver corps needs some speed, even if the team has high hopes for 2025 fifth-rounder Tory Horton.
Seattle should inquire about Darnell Mooney, who averaged a career-high 15.5 yards per reception in 2024.
In 2021, Mooney eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards with the Chicago Bears. He's not a lead wideout, but the 28-year-old doesn't have to be that alongside rising star receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Mooney would fit into a role as a field-stretcher who complements possession wideout Cooper Kupp.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Acquiring EDGE Jonathon Cooper
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The Denver Broncos have a strong group of outside linebackers. They signed Nik Bonitto to a four-year, $106 million extension last September. Jonathon Cooper worked his way up the depth chart, from a 2021 seventh-rounder to a highly productive pass-rusher. Jonah Elliss has shown flashes in his two seasons as a pro.
If the Broncos see something special in Elliss, a third-rounder from the 2024 draft, they may consider moving Cooper to acquire draft capital or a veteran at a position of need, which would also clear the way for the young rotational edge-rusher to start opposite Bonitto. Last year, Cooper played 61 percent of defensive snaps, a notable drop from his 71 percent rate in 2024.
Even if Denver has no plan to trade Cooper, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers should be on the phone to make the call about his availability.
The Buccaneers have a glaring need for an edge-rusher. Haason Reddick will be a free agent. Anthony Nelson could take on a bigger role, but he has registered fewer than six sacks in all seven of his seasons. YaYa Diaby is a solid edge defender, but he has more room for growth as a pass-rusher.
Cooper has registered at least eight sacks and 22 pressures in three consecutive seasons. He could provide a boost to Tampa Bay's 27th-ranked pass defense.
Tennessee Titans: Acquiring WR George Pickens in Tag-And-Trade Scenario
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Tennessee Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi can aid quarterback Cam Ward's growth with the addition of a big-play pass-catcher, but the free-agent wide receiver class could be light on explosive options, especially if the Indianapolis Colts franchise-tag Alec Pierce.
Nonetheless, the Titans could bolster their lackluster receiver unit in a trade scenario with the Dallas Cowboys.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport expects the Cowboys to franchise-tag George Pickens, but he also sees the possibility of a tag-and-trade situation in which Dallas nets a second- or third-round pick in return for him.
The Titans have their Day 2 picks for the upcoming draft and $104.8 million in cap space. They have the resources to strike a deal for Pickens if the Cowboys are open for business.
Washington Commanders: Trading for TE Jonnu Smith
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Washington Commanders offensive coordinator David Blough plans to build the passing attack around Terry McLaurin.
McLaurin is a reliable go-to receiver who can rack up big numbers with a high target share, though he will see bracketed coverages and double-teams if Jayden Daniels force-feeds the ball to him.
Washington needs a pass-catcher who will take some of the attention away from McLaurin. Last year, the front office gave up a fifth-round pick in exchange for Deebo Samuel. This offseason, the club should look for a big-bodied pass-catcher who can replace soon-to-be free agent Zach Ertz as Daniels' safety valve in the passing attack.
With 16 catches for 142 yards and two touchdowns in 33 games, Ben Sinnott, a 2024 second-rounder, hasn't proved that he can fill Ertz's role.
Washington can bring in Jonnu Smith, who's a proven playmaker on passing downs with at least 50 catches and 582 receiving yards in two of the previous three seasons. As part of a three-man tight end group in Pittsburgh, he may be open to a change of scenery.
Player contract and team salary cap details are provided by Over the Cap.
Maurice Moton covers the NFL for Bleacher Report. You can follow him on Twitter @MoeMoton.
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