48 Hours Left: NFL Teams Face Urgent Decisions on Star Players
With the trade deadline approaching, analysts identify specific moves that could reshape playoff contenders, from quarterback changes to defensive upgrades.
By Ricardo Alvarez ·
Twenty-seven players changed teams during the 2025 regular season, marking the highest volume of in-season trades in the past 25 years. This activity sets a high bar for the current market as the 2026 NFL trade deadline arrives in two days. Twelve of those transactions occurred on the final day of the previous deadline. Teams are now preparing for a similar surge of activity in the coming 48 hours, with speculation centering on several high-profile assets.
The Minnesota Vikings appear to be the most likely team to make a major quarterback move. ESPN analyst Adam Schefter has suggested the Vikings are monitoring the market for options such as Justin Herbert, Mac Jones, or Daniel Jones. A more sentimental possibility is Kirk Cousins, who spent six seasons in Minnesota where he threw for 4,000 yards four times. At age 38, Cousins currently leads the league with 19 passing touchdowns. The Raiders, who have acquired Fernando Mendoza as their projected No. 1 pick, could be positioned to move him.
Defensive upgrades remain a priority for the Buffalo Bills, whose unit ranks in the bottom ten for both yards allowed per game and points allowed per game. The analysis suggests that Budda Baker from the Arizona Cardinals would be a valuable addition. Baker has recorded 51 tackles and a career-high 3.5 sacks in eight games this season. He is one of only eight players in history to reach 1,000 career tackles before the age of 30, joining a list that includes Ray Lewis and Fred Warner.
The Baltimore Ravens, who hold the only losing record in their division, may look to move running back Derrick Henry. The 32-year-old is averaging 76.6 rushing yards per game. A potential trade partner is the New England Patriots, who rank 12th in the league in rushing yards per game. Head Coach Mike Vrabel has already reunited with former Titans A.J. Brown and Kevin Byard. Acquiring Henry would provide a consistent bell cow for a team that is still navigating quarterback injuries.
Context for these potential deals includes recent moves that have already altered the competitive landscape. The Seattle Seahawks acquired Quenton Nelson to strengthen their offensive line, while the San Francisco 49ers brought back DeForest Buckner. The Chicago Bears added Jeffery Simmons, increasing their Super Bowl odds, and the Baltimore Ravens signed Jacoby Brissett. These transactions demonstrate that teams are willing to pay a premium for established veterans who can immediately improve a roster. With the deadline approaching, general managers are weighing the cost of draft capital against the need for immediate impact.
Other notable candidates include George Pickens, who is on the franchise tag with the Dallas Cowboys and may not be retained due to salary cap constraints. The Los Angeles Raiders, who have a weak receiving corps, could benefit from his presence. Meanwhile, the New York Giants are looking to upgrade their running back room, with Tony Pollard identified as a target. Pollard is averaging a career-high 74.4 yards per game and is one of only two players to rush for 1,000 yards in each of the last four seasons. The Jacksonville Jaguars are also seeking defensive line help after an injury to DaVon Hamilton, with Moro Ojomo of the Philadelphia Eagles cited as a potential fit.
The market for offensive weapons continues to move, with the Kansas City Chiefs potentially targeting Josh Downs of the Indianapolis Colts. Downs has recorded the second-most receiving yards out of the slot since entering the league. The Pittsburgh Steelers could look to trade for Ladd McConkey of the Los Angeles Chargers to support quarterback Aaron Rodgers, while the San Francisco 49ers might pursue edge rusher Khalil Mack to bolster their defensive line, which has missed the most games due to injury this season.
