Explore the 2024 NFL trade deadline as we outline 10 essential trades that should be made, featuring a QB for the Dolphins and significant wide receiver swaps.
NFL Trade : With six weeks of the 2024 NFL regular season completed, teams are gearing up for the upcoming trade deadline, set for 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, November 5. As the midway point of the season approaches, several high-profile players are rumored to be on the move. Here are 10 key trade proposals as the deadline looms:
Key Highlights
1. NFL Trade : Trey Lance to the Miami Dolphins
Potential compensation: Conditional 2025 fifth-round pick
Despite Tua Tagovailoa’s anticipated return, concerns about his concussion history persist. Miami has often avoided placing all their hopes solely on Tagovailoa. Lance, who showcased his first-round talent under Mike McDaniel in San Francisco, remains a valuable project. Given Dallas’ decision to keep him on the bench, acquiring him could offer the Dolphins a low-risk, high-reward option as insurance for Tagovailoa.
2. Dameon Pierce to the Minnesota Vikings
Potential compensation: 2025 fifth-round pick
After acquiring Cam Akers last season, the Vikings are looking to strengthen their backfield, especially with Aaron Jones recovering from a hip injury. Pierce’s inconsistent role with the Texans has opened opportunities for the Vikings to add depth. His combination of size and speed would complement Jones effectively, enhancing the offense as Sam Darnold continues to settle in.
3. Davante Adams to the New York Jets
Potential compensation: 2025 third-round pick, 2026 fifth-round pick
Rumors of this trade have circulated for some time, making it feel almost inevitable. Reuniting Adams with Aaron Rodgers could reignite A-Rod’s Pro Bowl form, given their history together. However, it raises questions about the Jets’ decision-making, especially after their recent coaching changes in an attempt to support Rodgers amid a challenging season.
4. Amari Cooper to the Kansas City Chiefs
Potential compensation: 2025 fourth-round pick
Though the Chiefs can make do with various receivers, adding Cooper could greatly benefit their offense. With Patrick Mahomes at the helm and Andy Reid coaching, the Chiefs aim for another title. Cooper’s refined route-running can fill the gap left by the aging Travis Kelce, providing a much-needed weapon for Mahomes.
5. DeAndre Hopkins to the Buffalo Bills
Potential compensation: 2025 fifth-round pick
Hopkins was expected to enhance the Titans’ offense, but with their struggles this season, they might want to capitalize on his value before he becomes a free agent in 2025. At 32, his knee issues have impacted his performance, yet he could be crucial for a contending team like the Bills, where Josh Allen needs all the support he can get in a revamped receiving corps.
6. Adam Thielen to the Pittsburgh Steelers
Potential compensation: 2025 fifth-round pick
The Steelers have explored significant wide receiver trades this season, and Thielen presents a more accessible option. Although he may not match the ceiling of top-tier players, he has proven to be a reliable possession target when healthy, making him a suitable counterpart to the explosive George Pickens in Pittsburgh’s traditional offensive scheme.
7. Von Miller to the Philadelphia Eagles
Potential compensation: Conditional 2025 third-round pick
The Eagles previously acquired a conditional third-round pick for Haason Reddick, but their offseason addition, Bryce Huff, has yet to make an impact. Despite his age, Miller’s experience with defensive coordinator Vic Fangio makes him an intriguing option. Once eligible to play, he could revitalize Philadelphia’s pass rush.
8. Za’Darius Smith to the Detroit Lions
Potential compensation: 2025 fifth-round pick
As the Browns aim to rebuild after a 1-5 start, they may consider trading Smith, who has prior experience in the NFC North. With Aidan Hutchinson sidelined, the Lions need to strengthen their edge rusher position, making Smith a valuable addition for their push toward the NFC title.
9. Jonathan Jones to the Washington Commanders
Potential compensation: 2025 sixth-round pick
Jones, New England’s standout cornerback, could be a trade asset as the Patriots embark on a rebuilding phase. His experience would significantly bolster Washington’s secondary, especially as they eye a potential playoff spot with rookie Jayden Daniels at the helm.
10. Budda Baker to the Houston Texans
Potential compensation: 2025 fourth-round pick
Baker, one of the league’s top safeties when healthy, has expressed a desire to leave Arizona, especially as the team struggles. With injuries affecting Houston’s defensive backfield, adding Baker could enhance their prospects for a deep playoff run as a rental.