deadline
Introduction
Table of Contents
The NFL trade deadline is fast approaching on November 1st, and teams around the league are scrambling to make last-minute deals that could shift the balance of power in the playoff race. While some of the biggest names have already been traded, there are still several high-impact players who could be on the move before the window closes. Here’s a ranking of the top 10 best players who might still be available. deadline
1. Brandin Cooks, WR, Houston Texans
Cooks has long been one of the most consistent and productive wide receivers in the NFL, but he finds himself on a rebuilding Texans team that is once again struggling. At 28 years old, Cooks still has plenty of good football left in him, and a contending team could greatly benefit from his game-breaking speed and reliable hands. He’s owed a reasonable $18 million over the next two seasons, making him an attractive trade target. deadline
2. Robert Woods, WR, Los Angeles Rams
The Rams have already shipped off one veteran wide receiver in Brandin Cooks, and Woods could be next. At 30 years old, Woods is coming off a torn ACL, but he’s proven to be a versatile and dependable target when healthy. His $15.75 million cap hit in 2023 may give some teams pause, but a team in win-now mode could view Woods as a missing piece to their offense. deadline
3. Denzel Ward, CB, Cleveland Browns
Ward is one of the premier young cornerbacks in the league, making the Pro Bowl in 2021. The Browns are off to a disappointing 2-5 start, and with Ward due for a massive contract extension, Cleveland may decide to cash in on his trade value now. A team with championship aspirations would be thrilled to add a shutdown corner like Ward to their secondary. deadline
4. DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Arizona Cardinals
The five-time Pro Bowler has been the subject of trade rumors for months, and with the Cardinals sinking to 2-5, a deal seems increasingly likely. At 30 years old, Hopkins is still one of the most dominant receivers in the NFL when healthy. His massive contract (owed $34.4 million over the next two seasons) may be a deterrent, but there will be no shortage of suitors for his services. deadline
5. Chase Young, EDGE, Washington Commanders
Young has struggled to regain his dominant form after tearing his ACL last season, but the 2020 Defensive Rookie of the Year still possesses immense potential. The Commanders may decide to move on from the 23-year-old pass rusher if they can land a substantial trade package, especially with Washington sitting at 2-5 and far from playoff contention. deadline
6. Johnathan Taylor, RB, Indianapolis Colts
The reigning NFL rushing champion has had an uncharacteristically slow start to the 2022 season, leading to speculation that the Colts could look to cash in on his trade value. At just 23 years old, Taylor is one of the most dynamic running backs in the league, and a contender could view him as the missing piece to their offense.
7. DeForest Buckner, DT, Indianapolis Colts
If the Colts decide to blow things up, the 28-year-old Buckner could be another high-profile trade candidate. The dominant interior defensive lineman is owed $21 million per year through 2024, but his consistent production and disruptive presence would make him a valuable addition for any team in need of a game-wrecking tackle.
8. Brandin Cooks, WR, Houston Texans
Yes, Cooks is listed twice – that’s how valuable he is. The Texans have reportedly been fielding offers for the veteran receiver, and a contending team in need of a proven playmaker could make a push to acquire him before the deadline.
9. Elgton Jenkins, OL, Green Bay Packers
The versatile offensive lineman has been sidelined for much of the season with a knee injury, but when healthy, he’s one of the best all-around blockers in the NFL. The Packers are off to a disappointing 3-4 start, and they may look to capitalize on Jenkins’ trade value as they attempt to retool their roster.
10. DJ Moore, WR, Carolina Panthers
The Panthers have already traded Christian McCaffrey, and Moore could be the next big name to depart Charlotte. The 25-year-old wide receiver is a true No. 1 option, and a team in need of a game-breaking talent at the position could be willing to pay a steep price to acquire him.
Conclusion
With the trade deadline fast approaching, the NFL landscape could look quite different by the time November 1st rolls around. These 10 players represent some of the biggest names and most intriguing trade targets still on the market, and the teams that are able to pull off these deals could gain a significant competitive advantage down the stretch.