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## Blockbuster Alert: Ranking the NFL’s Most Likely Trade Scenarios
The NFL is a league of constant change, and with the 2025 season already underway, teams are evaluating their strengths and weaknesses. After a few weeks, some teams will realize they need to make a splash to contend, while others might look to offload valuable assets for future gains. Here’s a ranking of the most likely blockbuster trade scenarios that could reshape the NFL landscape before the November 4th trade deadline.
1. Cincinnati Bengals Acquire Veteran Quarterback
The Scenario: Joe Burrow’s recent toe surgery, sidelining him for at least three months, has thrown the Bengals’ Super Bowl aspirations into jeopardy. While Jake Browning is a capable backup, Cincinnati might seek a more experienced signal-caller to keep their championship window open.
Likelihood: High
Potential Targets:
- Kirk Cousins (Atlanta Falcons): Cousins was reportedly unhappy when he was benched for Michael Penix Jr. He has a no-trade clause but might waive it for a chance to play with the Bengals’ talented receiving corps. However, his $27.5 million salary and recent history of interceptions could be a deterrent.
- Jameis Winston (New York Giants): With the Giants having a crowded quarterback room, Winston could be available. He possesses starting experience and a strong arm, though his decision-making can be erratic.
- Jimmy Garoppolo (Los Angeles Rams): Garoppolo is on a one-year deal and has proven capable in the past. He is a low-risk, potentially high-reward option for a team needing a temporary fix.
Why it could happen: The Bengals are in win-now mode, and a veteran quarterback could provide the stability needed to navigate Burrow’s absence.
2. Miami Dolphins Trade Tyreek Hill
The Scenario: Despite his continued production, Tyreek Hill’s future in Miami is uncertain. The Dolphins’ early-season struggles and Hill’s past expressions of discontent could lead to a trade.
Likelihood: Medium
Potential Suitors:
- Kansas City Chiefs: A reunion with Patrick Mahomes would be a dream scenario for many Chiefs fans, but reports suggest the team is focused on developing their current receiving corps.
- Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers are always looking for offensive firepower, and Hill would instantly elevate their passing game.
- Denver Broncos: Coach Sean Payton has long admired Hill, and the Broncos could use a playmaker to boost their offense.
- Arizona Cardinals: Adding Hill to pair with Marvin Harrison Jr. would give Kyler Murray a dynamic duo of receivers.
Why it could happen: Hill’s age (31) and off-field concerns might make the Dolphins consider cashing in on his value. The Chiefs are 0-2 and Mike Florio said Kansas City needs to make a move that “shakes things up.”
3. Green Bay Packers Trade Veteran Player
The Scenario: The Packers have a young, talented roster and might look to acquire additional draft capital by trading a veteran player.
Likelihood: Medium
Potential Trade Candidates:
- Jaire Alexander (Cornerback): Alexander is a two-time All-Pro, but his high cap hit and recent injury history could make him expendable.
- Romeo Doubs (Wide Receiver): With the Packers drafting multiple wide receivers, Doubs could become a trade chip.
- Quay Walker (Linebacker): Walker has struggled to live up to his draft status, and the Packers might look to move on.
Why it could happen: The Packers are building for the future, and acquiring draft picks would help them continue to develop their roster.
4. Dallas Cowboys Trade Mazi Smith
The Scenario: Mazi Smith, a former first-round pick, has struggled to find consistency in Dallas. The Cowboys might look to move on from him and acquire a draft pick in return.
Likelihood: Low-Medium
Potential Suitors:
- Detroit Lions: The Lions could use additional depth on their defensive line.
Why it could happen: Smith’s lack of production and the Cowboys’ need for consistent play on the defensive line could lead to a trade.
5. Carolina Panthers Trade DJ Chark
The Scenario: The Panthers are rebuilding and could look to acquire draft capital by trading veteran players.
Likelihood: Low-Medium
Potential Suitors:
- Teams needing wide receiver depth: Any team looking to bolster their receiving corps could be a potential suitor for Chark.
Why it could happen: The Panthers are focused on the future and might prioritize draft picks over veteran presence.
Other Potential Trade Candidates
- Trey Hendrickson (Edge Rusher, Cincinnati Bengals): Hendrickson has expressed frustration with the Bengals’ front office and could be traded if a long-term deal isn’t reached.
- Curtis Samuel (Wide Receiver, Buffalo Bills): Samuel had a disappointing 2024 season and could be on the move.
- Tyrann Mathieu (Safety, New Orleans Saints): The Saints are projected to be over the salary cap in 2025 and could trade Mathieu to cut costs.
- Kenny Pickett (Quarterback, Cleveland Browns): With the Browns adding multiple quarterbacks, Pickett could be traded.
- Christian Kirk (Wide Receiver, Jacksonville Jaguars): Kirk’s production has declined, and the Jaguars could save money by trading him.
- Kyle Pitts (Tight End, Atlanta Falcons): Pitts has not lived up to expectations in Atlanta and could be on the move.
The Trade Deadline Landscape
The NFL trade deadline often brings surprises, and the 2025 season is shaping up to be no different. Teams will be evaluating their needs and weighing the potential benefits of making a trade. Keep an eye on these potential scenarios as the November 4th deadline approaches. The 2025 NFL trade deadline will take place on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. ET.