Blockbuster Alert? Predicting the NFL Trades That Could Reshape the 2025 Offseason

The NFL offseason is a whirlwind of speculation, rumors, and, of course, blockbuster trades. Just ask the Washington Commanders, who recently acquired Deebo Samuel from the 49ers. With the 2024 season barely in the rearview mirror, all eyes are already turning towards 2025 and the potential player movement that could reshape the league’s landscape. The projected salary cap of $275 million for 2025, a significant increase, will give teams more flexibility to make big moves. Which stars could be on the move, and which teams might be looking to shake things up?

Quarterback Carousel: Stafford, Rodgers, and Darnold

The quarterback position is always a hotbed of trade activity, and 2025 promises to be no different. Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams is one name that has surfaced as a potential trade candidate. Despite having a Super Bowl ring with the Rams, there are reports that his current contract is “untenable,” and the team may look to restructure or trade him. With the Titans signing Sam Darnold, the Giants’ 2025 quarterback options seem to be down to Aaron Rodgers or drafting a quarterback of the future.

Sam Darnold himself is a key piece of the puzzle. After a somewhat resurgent year with the Vikings, Darnold is set to become a free agent. Several teams will be interested in his services, and his decision could trigger a domino effect in the draft. If Darnold signs with a team like the Tennessee Titans, who hold a high draft pick, it could open the door for them to trade down, as they would no longer be desperate for a quarterback.

Wide Receiver Woes: Higgins, Adams, and Metcalf

The wide receiver market is always active, and several big names could be on the move in 2025. Tee Higgins of the Cincinnati Bengals is a prime candidate. The Bengals have applied the franchise tag on Higgins for the second straight year, signaling their intent to work towards a long-term deal. However, if they can’t reach an agreement, Higgins could be traded.

Davante Adams’s time with the New York Jets has been turbulent. With Aaron Rodgers’s future uncertain, the Jets might consider moving Adams to acquire draft capital. A reunion with the Green Bay Packers has been suggested as a fitting end to Adams’s career.

DK Metcalf of the Seattle Seahawks has also been mentioned in trade rumors. With the Seahawks potentially looking to rebuild, Metcalf could be a valuable asset to acquire draft picks.

Defensive Dynamos: Garrett and Crosby

It’s not just offensive stars who could be on the move. Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns has reportedly demanded a trade and refuses to sign a contract extension with the team. Trading Garrett would net the Browns a significant return, but losing a player of his caliber would be a major blow to their defense.

Maxx Crosby of the Las Vegas Raiders recently signed a three-year extension worth $106.5 million with $91.5 million guaranteed.

Potential Trade Scenarios:

New York Giants trade up for a QB: With their quarterback situation still uncertain, the Giants could be aggressive in trading up in the draft to select a quarterback like Cam Ward or Shedeur Sanders.
Tennessee Titans trade down: If they sign Sam Darnold, the Titans could trade down from the top of the draft, acquiring valuable assets while still addressing other needs.
Green Bay Packers acquire Davante Adams: A reunion between Adams and the Packers would give Aaron Rodgers a much-needed weapon and provide Adams with a chance to finish his career where it started.
Cleveland Browns trade Myles Garrett: While it would be a difficult decision, trading Garrett could give the Browns the draft capital they need to rebuild their roster.

Teams with Needs:

Several teams have glaring needs that they will likely address through trades or free agency:

New England Patriots: Offensive line is a major need for the Patriots. They ranked near the bottom of the league in both pass-blocking and run-blocking win rate in 2024.
Houston Texans: The Texans need to add depth at wide receiver, especially with Tank Dell’s injury.
Los Angeles Rams: The Rams need to find a running mate for Puka Nacua at wide receiver.
Buffalo Bills: The Bills need to find a replacement for Stefon Diggs.

The 2025 NFL offseason promises to be full of surprises. With several big names potentially on the move, fans can expect a wild ride as teams jockey for position and try to build a Super Bowl contender.