The NFL world’s fascination with player transactions is always in the spotlight, even during major events like the Super Bowl. Just days before the Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl 59 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, players from other teams managed to steal the show. Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns publicly requested a trade, while Cooper Kupp of the Los Angeles Rams disclosed the team’s plan to move him in the upcoming weeks. Although no official deals can be made until the start of the new league year on March 12, conversations between teams about potential trades are sure to heat up as free agency approaches.
Here are some standout players who could be trade candidates this offseason:
– Matthew Stafford, QB, Los Angeles Rams: Stafford could potentially shake up the league once again if he is moved after four years with the Rams. Despite the Rams’ success in reaching the verge of the NFC title game, coach Sean McVay has not committed to their plans, especially with Stafford having minimal guaranteed money for the upcoming seasons. If a new contract agreement cannot be reached, Stafford is expected to attract interest due to his adaptability and the lackluster quarterback options in this year’s draft.
– Derek Carr, QB, New Orleans Saints: Carr’s no-trade clause limits the Saints’ options, but with a significant portion of his salary becoming guaranteed, a decision will need to be made. Carr’s refusal of a pay cut may prompt the Saints to reconsider their strategy for the upcoming season. Despite the challenges, Carr’s skill set will likely draw attention from other teams.
– Kirk Cousins, QB, Atlanta Falcons: Like Carr, Cousins also has a no-trade clause, making a favorable trade difficult. The Falcons may need to weigh their options, considering the financial implications of retaining Cousins. Although the team appears content with their current quarterback situation, a trade could offer financial benefits and clarity for the Falcons moving forward.
– Garrett Wilson, WR, New York Jets: Wilson’s frustrations with the Jets’ recent struggles and quarterback performance have raised speculation about his future with the team. Despite his impressive individual performance, tensions have surfaced, and it will be up to the new coaching staff to address and resolve any issues with Wilson’s relationship with the organization.
Consider trading or retaining key players to bolster the team’s future prospects. WR Cooper Kupp of the Rams has expressed dissatisfaction with potential trade talks, but his value to a contender should not be overlooked. WR DK Metcalf of the Seahawks may attract interest from teams seeking a primary receiving option. WR Deebo Samuel of the 49ers, despite initial team reluctance, has been granted permission to seek a trade. WR Tee Higgins of the Bengals could be traded if a contract extension is not reached. WR Christian Kirk of the Jaguars may be surplus to requirements due to his contract and recent performance. TE Evan Engram of the Jaguars faces uncertainty after injuries and the emergence of a younger player.
With a $5 million cap hit and the potential for $6 million in savings if Jacksonville trades him, Kyle Pitts, the tight end for the Falcons, has not yet met the expectations set for him as the former No. 4 overall pick in the star-studded 2021 draft class. Despite a strong rookie year, Pitts has not replicated that success, prompting Fontenot to express the need for improvement. While Atlanta may not gain much by trading Pitts, another team might be intrigued by his untapped potential.
Trey Hendrickson, the defensive end for the Bengals, led the NFL with 17 ½ sacks in 2024 but had previously requested a trade that went unanswered by Cincinnati. This situation, coupled with the team’s other considerations for contract extensions, could lead to a stalemate that only a trade might resolve.
Myles Garrett, the standout defensive end for the Cleveland Browns, has expressed a desire to play elsewhere. However, Cleveland seems hesitant to entertain this notion due to financial constraints and the complexity of trading a player of his caliber.
Micah Parsons, the linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys, could potentially be traded despite the organization’s history of prioritizing internal talent development. Reports suggest internal discussions about either extending Parsons or trading him for significant value, although the team owner, Jerry Jones, has denied such possibilities.
Denzel Ward and Greg Newsome II, cornerbacks for the Browns, might also consider their futures with the team in light of Garrett’s situation. Ward hinted that Garrett’s status could influence his own, while Newsome could be a trade candidate in the coming year.
The Green Bay Packers are likely to release Jaire Alexander, cornerback, after his fifth-year option. Despite being a two-time Pro Bowl selection, Alexander has only managed to play seven games in each of the last two seasons. Green Bay has struggled at the cornerback position, but they may not hold on to Alexander due to his high cap hit of nearly $25 million, which would be the third-largest on the team for 2025. Cutting Alexander would free up over $6.8 million in cap space, but it’s worth exploring if any other teams would be interested in acquiring him.
Riq Woolen, cornerback for the Seahawks, had a challenging first year under Coach Macdonald. He was even benched for the opening drive of a game in December for violating team rules and was criticized by his coach for lacking focus, leading to technique issues. With star cornerback Devon Witherspoon eligible for an extension after the next season and Woolen having just one year left on his rookie deal, Seattle may need to consider if they should look to trade Woolen now. Despite earning a Pro Bowl nod and recording six interceptions in his debut 2022 season, it might be time for the Seahawks to evaluate their options.
This content was originally published on USA TODAY and discusses potential NFL trade candidates, focusing on top players who could be dealt during the offseason.
