Has the excitement surrounding this year’s NFL trade deadline already reached its peak?

With just six days left before the league’s deadline for trades, several teams have already made significant roster changes that may last into the off-season. The New York Jets kicked things off by trading for three-time All-Pro wide receiver Davante Adams, prompting other playoff contenders to take action as well – including the Buffalo Bills (Amari Cooper), Kansas City Chiefs (DeAndre Hopkins and Joshua Uche), Baltimore Ravens (Diontae Johnson), and Minnesota Vikings (Cam Robinson).

Now that many major trades are completed and top talents have been acquired, some of the more proactive teams might have already finalized their strategies. However, a few franchises still possess the resources and drive to add key players who could enhance their chances for a successful playoff run.

Here’s a list of five teams that could still be active buyers before Tuesday, along with potential targets:

Pittsburgh Steelers

Mike Tomlin and his team are not dwelling on the past after switching to Russell Wilson; the Steelers currently lead the AFC North with a 6-2 record. Despite Wilson’s ability to revitalize a previously stalled deep passing game, there are concerns about an offense that struggled significantly during their recent 26-18 victory against the New York Giants, failing to convert any of their four red zone opportunities.

With tougher challenges on the horizon after facing some weaker offensive squads earlier in the season, it’s clear that Wilson could benefit from having a more formidable receiving option besides George Pickens. A tall receiver who excels in contested catches would significantly aid in elevating this offense.

Potential Trade Targets for the Steelers

Mike Williams, WR, New York Jets: At 30 years old and recovering from a torn ACL suffered last September, he may not be able to stretch the field in the same way he did during his standout 2019 season when he averaged 20.4 yards per reception. However, he can still serve as a valuable downfield target, especially in this offense, while providing significant red zone potential. After the Adams trade, he has become redundant for the Jets, making this a beneficial move for both teams.

Darius Slayton, WR, New York Giants: Although he stands at 6-1 and 198 pounds and might not fit the stereotype of a traditional Steelers addition, his speed and catching ability have not been sufficiently utilized in a Giants offense hamstrung by Daniel Jones’ limitations. Pittsburgh witnessed his prowess firsthand on Monday when he tallied 108 yards on four receptions. While NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo has indicated that Slayton is unlikely to be available, perhaps Omar Khan can present an enticing enough offer to persuade Giants GM Joe Schoen, who should focus on maneuvering for a rebuild this off-season.

K.J. Osborn, WR, New England Patriots: While contenders may be more interested in Kendrick Bourne, Osborn could be a pragmatic choice. He has only recorded seven receptions for 57 yards this season, but he has the potential to replicate the production he achieved with the Minnesota Vikings over the last three years, averaging 615 yards annually.

Detroit Lions

Following the season-ending injury to Aidan Hutchinson, many speculated that the Lions would pursue trades for Maxx Crosby, Trey Hendrickson, or even Myles Garrett. However, these players seem to be unavailable, and such a significant trade would mark a shift in approach from Lions general manager Brad Holmes, who has been careful in cultivating his team’s culture with strategic additions.

Nonetheless, Dan Campbell has mentioned that the team is “exploring” various options ahead of the deadline, although he reassured that there is no sense of urgency and that alternative methods to generate defensive pressure can be utilized even without a top-tier edge rusher. Given the lack of depth at this position beyond Josh Paschal, bringing in further talent could bolster the defense as Detroit aims for a strong position in the competitive NFC North.

Potential Trade Targets for the Lions

Za’Darius Smith, DE, Cleveland Browns: In a trading market that has favored sensible choices, could this be the next smart deal? Smith has been linked to Detroit ever since Hutchinson’s injury, and many find the idea of pairing the three-time Pro Bowler with Campbell’s team appealing. Smith has been on a roll lately with three sacks in the last four games, offering Cleveland a perfect opportunity to trade high on one of its few remaining valuable assets.

Emmanuel Ogbah, DE/OLB, Miami Dolphins: Miami might hesitate to sell while Tua Tagovailoa rejuvenates their offense after recovery. However, with a 2-5 record, the Dolphins have a substantial journey ahead to re-enter the playoff chase. Trading a soon-to-be-free agent who is about to turn 31 would assist in re-calibrating a roster that is in dire need of reinforcements. Ogbah has rebounded Returning from his biceps issue, he offers flexibility as a rusher on both the inside and the outside.

Chase Young, DE, New Orleans Saints: This marks the second year in a row that Young has been traded from a non-contender to a contender just before the trade deadline, as he was sent from the Washington Commanders to the San Francisco 49ers last year. The former No. 2 draft pick and 2020 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year may not regain the explosive performance he showcased prior to his ACL injury, but he has shown signs of disruption – like his six pressures against the Carolina Panthers in the season opener – which could be the kind of spark the Lions need for their defense. However, considering the remaining pay on his one-year deal and the potential draft pick needed to acquire him from the Saints, Young could turn out to be a costly option.

San Francisco 49ers

Despite having 10 players on injured reserve, the 49ers are tied for the NFC West lead at 4-4, especially with reigning NFL Offensive Player of the Year Christian McCaffrey looking likely to return after the bye week. Can San Francisco recreate last year’s momentum with another strong finish? Maybe, but some changes to the roster seem necessary.

The loss of Brandon Aiyuk to a torn ACL and MCL heavily impacts the offense, leaving Brock Purdy without his quickest target. While tight end George Kittle and wide receiver Deebo Samuel can help fill the gap, both were dealing with injuries heading into Sunday’s win against the Dallas Cowboys, and Samuel is now contending with rib and oblique strains. Although San Francisco may hope that rookies Ricky Pearsall and Jacob Cowing can emerge, adding another experienced receiver could alleviate some of the uncertainty. Furthermore, the defensive line is in a tough spot following the season-ending injury to Javon Hargrave due to a torn triceps, and there’s limited depth on the edge. The 49ers clearly want to make another Super Bowl run with their current squad before addressing tough decisions regarding Purdy’s future contract, so they will be focused on their salary cap situation, which boasts a league-high unused space of $54.1 million, according to OverTheCap.com.

49ers’ NFL trade deadline target possibilities

Darius Slayton, WR, New York Giants: The options for the 49ers are dwindling after other teams have made their moves for receivers. Slayton could serve as a viable short-term substitute for Aiyuk, being a deep threat and after-the-catch playmaker. However, the 49ers may not feel as driven to acquire him from New York compared to other teams.

Dalvin Tomlinson, DT, Cleveland Browns: With the Denver Broncos surging, a reunion with D.J. Jones doesn’t seem appealing to the 49ers, leaving them with limited options for defensive tackles. Tomlinson, weighing in at 325 pounds, would introduce significant strength to a frontline predominantly featuring lighter players like Jordan Elliott and Maliek Collins. Both Tomlinson and his teammate Shelby Harris could be potential targets since the Browns are open to trades involving Cooper.

Calais Campbell, DT/DE, Miami Dolphins: At 38 years old, Campbell currently ranks fourth in pass-rush win rate among defensive tackles (15%), as reported by ESPN. The 49ers might look to leverage Campbell’s versatility, drawing from past experiences with Arik Armstead, and he might be interested in joining a true contender.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

There isn’t an immediate sense of urgency for the Buccaneers, as they are a game behind the Falcons in the NFC South and have lost the tiebreaker after being swept by Atlanta this season. With wide receiver Chris Godwin out for the rest of the season and numerous defensive weaknesses, is it still feasible to aim for a fourth consecutive division title or beyond?

If general manager Jason Licht decides to make moves before the trade deadline, there are plenty of issues to address. Although offensive coordinator Liam Coen has effectively utilized the “Pony” package featuring running backs Rachaad White and Bucky Irving, the Buccaneers are facing challenges with their receiving corps without Godwin, and Mike Evans is likely out until at least Week 12 due to a hamstring injury following the bye week. With the market for receivers having shrunk significantly, Tampa Bay will need to be resourceful if they intend to do more than continue with rookie receiver Jalen McMillan and tight end Cade Otton. The defense also presents a significant hurdle, as Todd Bowles’ unit has shown major weaknesses in both pass rush and secondary, allowing Kirk Cousins to throw eight touchdowns in two games.

Buccaneers’ NFL trade deadline target possibilities

Azeez Ojulari, OLB, New York Giants: With five sacks in his last three outings, Ojulari is on a hot streak that is likely drawing attention from around the league. With Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux representing the Giants’ future at the position, bringing back Ojulari, who is in the final year of his contract, may be challenging. While giving up a valuable draft pick for what could be a brief rental may seem questionable, acquiring a reliable source of pressure is crucial for the Buccaneers if they want to turn the season around.

Mike Williams, WR, New York Jets: Although Darius Slayton might also be on their radar, Williams may be the more budget-friendly option. Adding Williams could help ease the pressure until Evans returns, especially since Baker Mayfield had to throw a season-high 50 times in their latest loss to the Falcons, averaging only 6.6 yards per attempt due to a lack of reliable outside options.

Jonathan Jones, CB, New England Patriots: While this isn’t quite as dramatic as Tom Brady departing Foxborough for the NFC South, it would still be a notable move for both teams. Jones is one of the few remaining players linked to New England’s title-winning teams from the Brady era, but at 31 and in the final year of his deal, he might not hold as much relevance for a franchise focused on long-term planning. Though Jones may not be the most thrilling addition – since he hasn’t recorded an interception since his career-high four in 2022 – his steady presence would certainly be beneficial to Bowles’ squad.

Philadelphia Eagles

While most other NFL GMs are content to remain inactive, Howie Roseman is likely busy making calls. The Eagles’ personnel manager consistently explores the market for potential improvements. However, the last few seasons have yielded limited excitement, with midseason acquisitions like Kevin Byard III and Robert Quinn haven’t quite met expectations so far. Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni managed expectations during a winning streak of three games, stating on Tuesday, “I love the team we have, and I think this team is really coming together.”

Although Philadelphia continues to struggle in finding a dependable No. 3 receiver behind A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, Roseman may hesitate to make another trade after giving up a third-round pick in August for Jahan Dotson, who has underperformed with just six receptions for 35 yards this season. The most significant opportunity for an additional player could be to strengthen the edge rush, which eased concerns recently by collecting 13 sacks over the last two weeks but mustered only one sack last Sunday against Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals. Extra depth at linebacker and on the offensive line could also be beneficial.

Possible Trade Targets for the Eagles Before the NFL Deadline

Za’Darius Smith, DE, Cleveland Browns: Smith may not be a superstar, but he could solidify this pass rush. His inclusion could also allow Vic Fangio to be more inventive and effective with his rotation, especially in how Bryce Huff and Nolan Smith are used.

Deatrich Wise Jr., DE, New England Patriots: The 30-year-old may be seen as surplus to requirements in New England as the Patriots focus on gathering assets for their ongoing rebuild. With two sacks this season, Wise presents a chance to enhance this position without a hefty investment.