NFL Trade Deadline: Five Teams Likely to Sell in 2024
On November 5, the NFL will mark its version of “decision day,” though the stakes are much lower than in an election.
Just before voting ends, the NFL’s trade deadline will cut off, providing the last chance for teams to enhance their rosters. Some teams, like the New York Jets, didn’t wait; they traded for wide receiver Davante Adams from the Las Vegas Raiders, while the Buffalo Bills secured Amari Cooper from the Cleveland Browns. Shortly after, the Kansas City Chiefs added wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins from the Tennessee Titans.
But before the deadline closes in 13 days, who else might be up for grabs? Letting go of star players – even those set to hit free agency – can be a tough choice for decision-makers, especially when their jobs might be on the line. With the NFL’s new layout, front offices may be more inclined to hold off, hoping for a late-season turnaround. However, with the deadline pushed back by a week this year, teams have more insight into their chances of making the playoffs.
While it’s still early to pinpoint which teams will be making trades, here are five that should strongly consider selling.
Potential Sellers for the 2024 NFL Trade Deadline
Cleveland Browns
Tied financially to Deshaun Watson for two more seasons, Cleveland is in a challenging position: they need to rebuild but can’t do so effectively. The decision to trade Cooper even before Watson’s Achilles injury shows that tough choices are ahead in the coming months.
While key star players like Myles Garrett, Denzel Ward, and Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah may be off-limits, the Browns find themselves low on young talent, having gone three years without a first-round pick due to the Watson deal. Their salary-cap situation isn’t promising either. Cleveland might need to contemplate moving key players to boost their rebuilding strategy.
In the short term, they have tradeable assets. Defensive end Za’Darius Smith, age 32, is a valuable piece given the scarcity of edge rushers on the market. Elijah Moore, who could follow Cooper out, has been under scrutiny after being benched for parts of Sunday’s game. Offensive tackle Jack Conklin, despite his injury history, could attract attention as a rental since he has no guaranteed money left on his deal after this season. Additionally, cornerback Greg Newsome II and defensive tackles Dalvin Tomlinson and Shelby Harris might also be in demand.
New England Patriots
Coach Jerod Mayo’s assertion that New England is “a soft football team” could indicate impending changes. The Patriots are expected to have substantial cap space in the spring, suggesting personnel adjustments are on the horizon. However, they could accelerate this process by trading away players who don’t fit into the long-term plans amidst an evident roster overhaul.
Jonathan Jones, a seasoned cornerback, has been with the Patriots for nine seasons and remains a reliable starter. Trading him to a playoff-bound team hunting for secondary support would be beneficial for everyone. Defensive end Josh Uche might not align with Mayo’s vision for a tougher defense, making him attractive for teams seeking a cost-effective edge rusher. Meanwhile, wide receiver Kendrick Bourne’s reliability may be more suited for a different team, especially with New England focusing on youth within their offense.
Carolina Panthers
Given how little they have left, it’s time the Panthers accelerated their rebuilding efforts. Coach Dave Canales and general manager Dan Morgan’s debut overhaul seems to be stagnating, worsened by the former No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young being benched after just two games this season. With a defense that could set the record for most points allowed, acquiring more draft picks becomes crucial for Carolina.
While there might not be a standout figure like Brian Burns to ignite bidding wars, the Panthers still have players who could attract interest. Wide receiver Diontae Johnson, with 30 receptions for 357 yards and three touchdowns, has openly expressed frustration with his role. This reluctance to sign on for another contract suggests Charlotte should explore trading him as many teams would value him as a strong No. 2 option. Adam Thielen could also be seen as a useful secondary receiving option, though his recent hamstring injury has kept him sidelined since Week 3. Even though the Panthers seem hesitant to trade Young, they need to strategize on getting him back into the lineup as quickly as possible.
It’s becoming clear that a decision to split is approaching. On the defensive side, edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney remains capable of making an impact, while safety Xavier Woods could attract attention due to his versatile skill set.
New York Giants
Despite the hopes of general manager Joe Schoen and coach Brian Daboll for a midseason turnaround, their team’s 28-3 defeat against the Philadelphia Eagles signals a rough season ahead. Even with a league-leading 31 sacks, the struggling offense led by Daniel Jones, which averages just 14.1 points per game (the second lowest in the league after the injury-plagued Miami Dolphins), is failing to deliver.
Significant changes are expected to wait until the offseason when the organization can thoroughly explore options for possibly replacing Daboll and/or Jones. For now, the Giants should actively seek interest for at least two players whose contracts are nearing expiration.
Darius Slayton has stepped up during Malik Nabers’ concussion protocol, but the return of the rookie has made Slayton less essential. His ability to make big plays as a deep threat and after the catch could attract attention from teams looking to enhance their passing game. Additionally, outside linebacker Azeez Ojulari is unlikely to return next season due to investments made in Kayvon Thibodeaux and Brian Burns. Nevertheless, after two injury-plagued years, Ojulari has recently shown his potential, registering three sacks in his last two games, making him an optimal asset to trade.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Considering a complete overhaul might be off the table, as owner Shad Khan has described this team as “the best ever assembled by the Jacksonville Jaguars.” However, neither coach Doug Pederson nor general manager Trent Baalke may feel secure in their jobs, especially with a disappointing 2-5 record and a tough five-game stretch against winning teams ahead. If there’s a moment to offload players for draft capital, that time is now.
If tight end Evan Engram is considered untouchable as one of Trevor Lawrence’s top targets, wide receiver Christian Kirk could be the most significant name available for trade. His role seems to be diminishing alongside Engram and rookie star Brian Thomas Jr. Trading him, especially with a nearly $24.4 million salary cap hit in 2025, may be prudent if the right offer comes along. Additionally, with Cam Robinson and Walker Little both approaching free agency, they could be valuable assets for teams seeking left tackle support. Lastly, playmaking safety Andre Cisco, also in the final year of his contract, has hinted at wanting a change after commenting on the team’s lack of effort during their first London game.
(This story was updated to change a gallery.)