Trade Deadline WR Targets: Which Teams Will Be Buyers?

Trade Deadline WR Targets: Which Teams Will Be Buyers?

The NFL trade deadline on November 4th at 4:00 p.m. ET looms large, and with it, the hopes of several teams looking to bolster their receiving corps for a Super Bowl push. As contenders emerge and pretenders fade, the wide receiver market is heating up. Which teams will be aggressive in pursuing upgrades, and which players might be on the move?

Contenders in Need: The Prime Buyers

Several teams with Super Bowl aspirations are facing challenges in their passing game, making them potential buyers at the trade deadline.

  • Kansas City Chiefs: Despite quarterback Patrick Mahomes’s brilliance, the Chiefs’ receiving corps has struggled with consistency. The Chiefs, sitting at 0-2 for the first time in Mahomes’s career after a loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, are rumored to be interested in bringing back Tyreek Hill. However, reports indicate their focus is on getting Xavier Worthy healthy and awaiting Rashee Rice’s return from suspension. Another potential target for the Chiefs could be Jauan Jennings from the San Francisco 49ers, a big-bodied receiver who could be a valuable red-zone threat.

  • Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers’ offense sputtered in Week 2 against the Seattle Seahawks, with their wide receivers combining for a paltry 49 yards. While they acquired DK Metcalf this offseason, they lack a reliable secondary option. Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk mentioned the Steelers as a team interested in Tyreek Hill. However, some analysts believe pursuing Hill would be a mistake, given his recent off-field issues and the potential cost in draft capital. Romeo Doubs of the Green Bay Packers has also been mentioned as a potential target for the Steelers.

  • Houston Texans: Despite adding Christian Kirk and rookies Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, the Texans could use a field-stretching upgrade to complement Nico Collins. With Kirk currently dealing with an injury, the Texans might be tempted to add a proven commodity to aid C.J. Stroud’s development. A.J. Brown’s name has been floated as a potential target, though the Eagles may be hesitant to part with their star receiver.

Teams on the Fringe: Weighing the Cost

Several other teams find themselves in a position where adding a receiver could significantly boost their playoff chances, but they may be more cautious about the price.

  • Arizona Cardinals: With Marvin Harrison Jr. leading the way, the Cardinals have a promising young receiving corps. However, adding a veteran presence like Tyreek Hill could provide Kyler Murray with another explosive option and potentially open up the NFC West.

  • Los Angeles Chargers: Despite signing Keenan Allen, the Chargers are still searching for star power at receiver. With Justin Herbert at quarterback and Jim Harbaugh at the helm, the Chargers could make a splash by acquiring a player like A.J. Brown to bolster their passing attack.

  • Baltimore Ravens: If DeAndre Hopkins doesn’t return after his one-year contract, the Ravens could be in the market for a reliable WR3. A.J. Brown has been mentioned as a potential fit, providing stability to their receiving corps and potentially helping Lamar Jackson make another Super Bowl run.

Potential Trade Candidates: Who Could Be on the Move?

Several factors could lead to teams making wide receivers available at the trade deadline. Disappointing team performance, contract situations, and the emergence of younger players can all contribute to a player being put on the market.

  • Tyreek Hill (Miami Dolphins): Despite his talent, Hill’s name has surfaced in trade rumors due to the Dolphins’ struggles and his past expressions of discontent. Several teams, including the Chiefs and Steelers, have been linked to him, but his off-field issues could complicate any potential deal.

  • A.J. Brown (Philadelphia Eagles): Despite being a key part of the Eagles’ offense, Brown’s early-season usage has raised questions. If his targets continue to be limited, the Eagles might consider a trade, with the Texans and Raiders potentially interested. However, Eagles GM Howie Roseman has reportedly shut down previous inquiries about Brown.

  • Romeo Doubs (Green Bay Packers): Despite coach Matt LaFleur’s comments about not wanting to trade Doubs, reports suggest that multiple teams have inquired about his availability. The Steelers are among the teams that could be interested in the Packers wideout.

  • Mike Williams (New York Jets): Williams was garnering trade interest.

The Trade Deadline Landscape

The NFL trade deadline is always a fascinating time, with teams making bold moves to improve their rosters for the stretch run. In 2025, several teams are in the market for wide receiver help, and a few high-profile players could be on the move. Whether it’s a proven veteran or a promising young talent, adding a receiver could be the key to unlocking a Super Bowl contender’s full potential. The 2025 NFL trade deadline on November 4th promises to be an eventful day.