The NFL’s 2024 trade deadline has concluded. During the season, there have been 18 trades involving 19 players. Which teams have significantly enhanced their Super Bowl odds?

The Kansas City Chiefs are on a quest for their third consecutive Super Bowl title. To support this goal, they brought in veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, who has already begun making an impact. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Ravens fortified their potent offense by acquiring wide receiver Diontae Johnson and veteran cornerback Tre’Davious White to strengthen their defense.

In the NFC, the Detroit Lions made headlines by securing defensive end Za’Darius Smith from Cleveland.

Three teams in pursuit of the Super Bowl made significant trades. Here are five teams that notably improved their Super Bowl chances at the NFL trade deadline according to YSL News Sports:

Detroit Lions

Acquired: Za’Darius Smith

With the highest-scoring offense in the NFL, the Lions recognized the need to bolster their defense after Aidan Hutchinson sustained a serious injury that ended his season. They successfully acquired their target, Za’Darius Smith.

The 10-year veteran has played in the NFC North previously, representing both the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings.

This season, Smith has registered 26 pressures and five sacks, significantly outpacing the next best edge rusher on the team, Josh Paschal, who has only nine pressures. His sack total also surpasses the current leader, defensive tackle Alim McNeill, who has 2.5 sacks.

The Lions are all-in this year, boasting their best start to a season since 1956. The franchise has yet to reach a Super Bowl, and they are eager to change that.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Acquired: Mike Williams, Preston Smith

The Steelers have been interested in acquiring Williams since he was released by the Chargers, looking to strengthen their receiving corps where George Pickens is currently the only player with over 15 receptions.

With Williams and Pickens on the field, they could become a formidable receiving duo. Russell Wilson has been impressive since becoming the starting quarterback, boasting a 111.9 passer rating. Wilson’s deep-ball throwing ability should complement Williams well, a wide receiver who averaged an astonishing 20.4 yards per reception back in 2019. Although Williams has struggled to regain his form since a significant knee injury, a fresh start might be just what he needs.

The Packers opted for a younger approach, and Smith found himself losing playing time. In Pittsburgh, Smith will deepen the Steelers’ already strong defense by adding depth at the outside linebacker position behind stars T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith.

Currently sporting a 6-2 record, Steelers coach Mike Tomlin is set for what could be his 18^th consecutive season finishing above .500.

Kansas City Chiefs

Acquired: DeAndre Hopkins, Josh Uche

The Chiefs are striving to become the first NFL team ever to win three Super Bowls back-to-back. To help in this pursuit, they brought in Hopkins after facing a wide receiver shortage due to injuries. In his first home game, he made quite the impression with eight receptions for 86 yards and two touchdowns. His transition into the Chiefs’ offense has been seamless, and he’s quickly established himself as their top receiver.

Defensively, the Chiefs looked to bolster their pass rush with Uche, who is expected to be utilized in specific passing situations. He recorded a personal best of 11.5 sacks in 2022. If he can find that form again, it would be a great addition to Kansas City’s already strong defense.

Washington Commanders

Acquired: Marshon Lattimore

The Commanders needed a credible No. 1 cornerback, and Lattimore steps in to take on that role, immediately becoming the team’s best cover corner. With only 9.7% of his coverage snaps targeted, he ranks among the lowest for outside cornerbacks, and he has not allowed a completion percentage over 65% in seven consecutive seasons.

Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels expressed aspirations to “shift the culture” within the Commanders back in July, and he’s been consistent with that commitment. The team has become an appealing destination for players, and they are optimistic about making the playoffs for the first time since 2020.

Baltimore Ravens

Recently Added: Diontae Johnson, Tre’Davious White

The Ravens had the top overall offense in the NFL, particularly excelling in rushing, before they brought Johnson into the fold. Johnson adds an extra layer of skill to the Ravens’ roster; he’s known for his sharp route running and ability to create separation.

Zay Flowers has emerged as the leading receiver for Baltimore, while Rashod Bateman stands out as a reliable secondary option. Both receivers are among the top 30 in receiving yards. Johnson enhances Baltimore’s playmaking capabilities, and that’s in addition to the talents of Derrick Henry and the Ravens’ strong running game.

Lamar Jackson is surrounded by an impressive array of talent as he looks to secure another MVP-worthy season.

The Rams and White made a mutual decision to part ways after he dropped down the roster in Los Angeles. While he may not perform at the Pro Bowl level he did in Buffalo, if White can contribute effectively for the Ravens, it would be a positive outcome.

The Ravens have endured several injuries affecting their secondary.