As the NFL”s legal tampering window approaches, set to commence on March 9 at noon ET, anticipation builds for a flurry of trades that could reshape team rosters. With the new league year starting on March 11 at 4 p.m. ET, the excitement of free agency is already stirring speculation about potential blockbuster deals.
This offseason presents a captivating landscape, featuring several players who may be on the move, including quarterbacks, wide receivers, edge rushers, and more. Factors such as contract situations, team overhauls, and pushes for contention are fueling trade discussions. Analysts from major sports networks like ESPN, NFL.com, and CBS Sports have spotlighted standout players such as A.J. Brown, Maxx Crosby, and Kyler Murray as key trade candidates.
Potential Trade Scenarios
Here are ten trades that are generating significant buzz:
- A.J. Brown, WR, Philadelphia Eagles to Buffalo Bills: Brown”s name is frequently mentioned as the Eagles consider his future amid changes in coaching and financial constraints. The Bills, aiming for a Super Bowl run with quarterback Josh Allen, might be willing to part with substantial draft capital to acquire the talented receiver.
- Maxx Crosby, EDGE, Las Vegas Raiders to Detroit Lions: While discussions around Crosby have quieted, his elite pass-rushing skills keep him on the radar. The Lions, focused on improving their defense, may look to bring him in, especially as the Raiders seek high draft picks during their rebuilding phase.
- Kyler Murray, QB, Arizona Cardinals to Minnesota Vikings: After an injury-plagued season and the Cardinals” coaching shift, Murray”s future is unclear. The Vikings, in search of a reliable quarterback, could consider trading for him, potentially offering a Day 2 draft pick.
- Mac Jones, QB, San Francisco 49ers to Miami Dolphins: Now a backup, Jones could attract interest from teams like Miami that are in need of affordable quarterback depth. His manageable cap hit for 2026 makes him an appealing option for teams planning future extensions.
- Trey Hendrickson, EDGE, Cincinnati Bengals to a contender (like the Rams or Chargers): Hendrickson, who previously requested a trade, could be moved before free agency to optimize value. His impressive sack production makes him an attractive target, particularly for teams with championship aspirations.
- De”Von Achane, RB, Miami Dolphins to a running back-needy team (such as the Broncos or Bengals): Achane”s explosive speed places him among the top trade candidates. Miami”s depth at running back might lead them to deal him for draft assets, especially with teams like Denver seeking playmaking talent.
- Brian Thomas Jr., WR, Jacksonville Jaguars to an AFC contender: As ESPN”s top trade candidate, Thomas”s potential draws considerable interest despite Jacksonville”s investments in their roster. A trade could yield high draft picks if the Jaguars decide to pivot.
- DJ Moore, WR, Chicago Bears to the Buffalo Bills or an AFC West team: Proposals suggest that Moore could head west, but the Bills remain a strong fit for his dynamic skill set. Chicago”s decisions regarding their roster and salary cap may necessitate a move.
- Jermaine Johnson, EDGE, New York Jets to Tennessee Titans (or vice versa): A potential one-for-one trade involving Johnson and the Titans” Tvondre Sweat has generated discussion, indicating a possible reshuffling of EDGE players as the Jets continue their rebuilding efforts.
- Matthew Stafford and potential veteran QB moves could impact draft trades: Stafford”s uncertain future with the Rams, coupled with GM Les Snead”s history of bold transactions, may lead to trades that could shake up both free agency and the draft landscape.
These potential trades emphasize the fluidity of the offseason. Often, trades will precede or coincide with free agency as teams look to clear cap space, acquire assets, or fill gaps before the rush of signings begins on March 11. Teams like the Seahawks, Jets, and Patriots, with significant cap space and draft resources, may drive considerable activity in the coming days.
As the legal tampering period opens, teams are likely to initiate verbal agreements that could trigger a series of moves, with trades becoming official on March 11. The focus on quarterback stability, defensive strength, and explosive offensive players ensures that these scenarios will dominate discussions as executives work to reshape their teams for the 2026 season.
