2025 NFL Trade Deadline: Top 25 Players on the Move and What It Means for Teams

Deadline Drama: Who’s Actually on the Block?

The 2025 NFL trade deadline isn’t just another date on the calendar—it’s a pressure cooker where front offices must choose between chasing a playoff spot or rebuilding for the future. With the cutoff set for Tuesday, Nov. 4, at 4 p.m. ET, rumors and negotiations are swirling as teams weigh the value of their stars and key contributors. According to ESPN and CBSSports.com, some franchises are fielding calls for their biggest names, while others are holding tight, hoping to squeeze out one last run with their current core.

Here’s the reality: While many names are floated, only a handful will actually switch jerseys. Still, the potential impact of these moves—whether it’s a blockbuster or a subtle depth trade—can’t be overstated. These deals can redefine a team’s season or even its future.

Top 25 Trade Candidates: Skill, Fit, and Franchise Decisions

The shortlist of this year’s trade buzz is filled with both established playmakers and intriguing prospects. Here’s a closer look at the most talked-about names and the circumstances surrounding their possible moves:

• Trey Hendrickson (Edge, Bengals): With Cincinnati in the AFC North race, the team isn’t eager to part ways with their top pass rusher. Yet, the interest—especially from contenders like the 49ers and Eagles—remains high. Hendrickson’s relentless style and production (17.5 sacks in 2024) make him the most coveted defender, even if his predicted trade chance is just 20%.
• Jaylen Waddle (WR, Dolphins): Miami’s poor record has sparked speculation, but Waddle is seen as a foundational piece. Still, teams in need of explosive receivers, such as the Steelers and Giants, are watching closely. With his ability to turn short catches into big gains, Waddle’s market value is undeniable.
• Breece Hall (RB, Jets): Hall’s dual-threat talent could tempt teams like the Chargers or Chiefs, especially with the Jets at 0-7. If New York commits to a rebuild, Hall might be on the move, despite his stated desire to stay.
• Riq Woolen (CB, Seahawks): Woolen’s fit in Seattle has been questioned, and his man-coverage skills could appeal to teams like the Lions or Buccaneers. With a 50% chance of being traded, he may be one of the likeliest to relocate.
• Jakobi Meyers (WR, Raiders): Meyers leads the Raiders in targets and could be a valuable intermediate option for teams lacking receiver depth. His future in Las Vegas hinges on the strength of incoming offers.

Other notable candidates include Mark Andrews (Ravens), Chris Olave (Saints), Jaelan Phillips (Dolphins), and Jermaine Johnson (Jets), each representing a mix of upside, contract status, and team fit. Even veteran quarterbacks like Russell Wilson and Kirk Cousins are theoretically available, though their markets are limited by salary and role.

Recent Moves and Market Shifts

The trade tracker is already heating up. Most notably, the Rams acquired cornerback Roger McCreary from the Titans in a deal that sends a conditional fifth-round pick to Tennessee and brings a sixth-rounder back to Los Angeles. The move addresses injury concerns and adds versatility to one of the league’s strongest defenses. As CBSSports.com notes, this is a classic rental—McCreary is in the final year of his deal—but it underscores the Rams’ commitment to maintaining their defensive edge heading into the home stretch.

Meanwhile, teams like the Steelers and Buccaneers are quietly exploring upgrades, hoping to shore up weak spots without sacrificing future assets. For franchises stuck at the bottom—think Jets or Saints—veterans could be moved to jumpstart a rebuild and bring in draft capital.

What Drives NFL Trade Decisions?

Every deadline season is a balancing act. Teams must assess not just immediate needs, but also the long-term trajectory of their roster. For contenders, a single move can be the difference between a playoff berth and a disappointing finish. For struggling teams, trading away stars is often the first step toward a new era.

Front offices lean on analytics, tape, and market buzz to gauge value. As ESPN’s Matt Bowen and Jeremy Fowler explain, it’s not just about a player’s stats—it’s about how they fit into a new scheme, their contract situation, and the likelihood of delivering under pressure. Sometimes, a backup linebacker with strong coverage instincts (like Logan Wilson, Bengals) or a versatile slot corner (Michael Carter II, Jets) can be just as valuable as a headline-grabbing Pro Bowler.

Potential Blockbusters and Under-the-Radar Steals

This year’s deadline could see several intriguing scenarios unfold:

• Will a playoff hopeful sacrifice a future pick for an instant-impact defender like Hendrickson?
• Could injury-ravaged teams (Rams, Chargers) turn to depth trades for stability?
• Are rebuilding squads finally ready to cash in on their biggest names?

Honorable mentions—like Calvin Ridley (Titans), Pete Werner (Saints), and Keaton Mitchell (Ravens)—illustrate the depth of the market. Even a midseason rental can provide a spark or fill a critical gap. With every move, the ripple effects extend beyond the field, shaping locker room chemistry and fan expectations.

The Road Ahead: What’s at Stake for Teams and Players

As the clock ticks down, the league’s landscape could shift dramatically. For players, a trade can mean a fresh start or a shot at the playoffs. For teams, it’s a chance to recalibrate, either by doubling down on a postseason push or by laying the foundation for future success.

In the NFL, windows of opportunity open and close quickly. The moves made in the coming days will echo through the rest of the season—and perhaps for years to come.

Based on the current buzz and recent transactions, the 2025 NFL trade deadline is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for both contenders and rebuilders. While not every name on the list will move, the deals that do happen are likely to have outsized effects on playoff races and future roster construction. Smart franchises will use this window to maximize value, while others may find themselves forced into difficult decisions, setting the stage for a dramatically reshaped league.