Game Changers: Rating the Top NFL Trades Set to Dominate the 2025 Season
The NFL offseason is a whirlwind of activity, but the trade market often provides the most dramatic shifts in team outlooks. As we gear up for the 2025 season, several high-profile trades have the potential to reshape the league’s landscape. Just last year, the Tennessee Titans kicked off the draft, taking quarterback Cam Ward with the No. 1 pick. Let’s dive into the deals that could define the upcoming year.
Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders: A Safe Bet Under Center?
Impact Grade: A-
The Las Vegas Raiders have been searching for stability at quarterback for what seems like an eternity. Enter Geno Smith, acquired from the Seattle Seahawks for a 2025 third-round pick. While Smith isn’t a splashy, instant-Super Bowl-contender type of acquisition like Matthew Stafford was in his move to the Rams, he brings a level of consistency the Raiders have sorely lacked.
In the past three seasons, Smith has posted a passer rating of 92.1 or better—a mark no Raiders quarterback has achieved in that same span. He reunites with Pete Carroll, who helped revitalize his career in Seattle, providing familiarity and a proven system. The Raiders’ offense, which has been stuck in the mud, could see a significant boost with Smith at the helm, especially with weapons like tight end Brock Bowers and running back Ashton Jeanty.
D.K. Metcalf to the Pittsburgh Steelers: A New Era in the Steel City?
Impact Grade: B+
The Pittsburgh Steelers are known for their tough, physical play, and the addition of D.K. Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks certainly fits that mold. While the exact compensation hasn’t been fully disclosed, the Steelers are betting big on Metcalf’s ability to bring a new dimension to their passing game.
Metcalf’s size, speed, and contested-catch ability will provide a significant upgrade to the Steelers’ receiving corps. He’ll immediately become the primary target, drawing coverage and opening up opportunities for George Pickens and Pat Freiermuth. The Steelers’ offense, which has struggled to find consistency in recent years, could become a force to be reckoned with if quarterback Justin Fields can develop a strong rapport with Metcalf.
Laremy Tunsil to the Washington Commanders: Protecting the Franchise
Impact Grade: B
The Washington Commanders made a bold move to acquire Laremy Tunsil from the Houston Texans, solidifying their offensive line and protecting their prized quarterback, Jayden Daniels. The Commanders sent a package of picks, including a 2025 fourth-round selection, to Houston in exchange for the Pro Bowl left tackle.
Tunsil’s arrival provides immediate stability and leadership to the Commanders’ offensive line. His presence will be crucial in allowing Daniels time to develop and make plays. The Commanders also acquired Deebo Samuel from San Francisco, signaling their commitment to building a strong supporting cast around their young quarterback.
Stefon Diggs to the New England Patriots: A Spark for a Stalling Offense?
Impact Grade: C+
The New England Patriots, desperate for offensive firepower, made a splash by acquiring Stefon Diggs. The Patriots needed to address both offensive tackle and wide receiver this offseason, and landing Diggs allows them to focus on other needs in the draft.
Diggs, even as he enters his age-31 season, remains a top-tier receiver capable of making an immediate impact. However, questions remain about the Patriots’ quarterback situation and whether they can provide Diggs with consistent targets. While Diggs’ talent is undeniable, his fit in New England and the overall impact on the team’s 2025 season are less certain.
Kirk Cousins to the Cleveland Browns: Reuniting for Success?
Impact Grade: B-
In a move that reunites him with his former offensive coordinator Kevin Stefanski, Kirk Cousins is now a Cleveland Brown. The Browns sent a 2025 third-round pick to the Atlanta Falcons to acquire the veteran quarterback.
Cousins knows Stefanski’s offense well and has run the system better than any other signal-caller in the past three campaigns. Flacco’s veteran presence and willingness to take shots downfield fit well in a run-first Cleveland offense. That ability to stretch the field could push him ahead in the competition during training camp.
Other Notable Moves
- Jalen Ramsey to the San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers continue to load up on defensive talent, acquiring Ramsey from the Miami Dolphins for a 2025 third-round pick and a 2025 seventh-round pick.
- Jameson Williams to the Las Vegas Raiders: The Raiders add a speedy receiver in Williams, sending a 2025 third-round pick to the Detroit Lions.
- Mark Andrews to the Los Angeles Rams: The Rams bolster their passing game with Andrews, sending a 2025 fourth-round pick and a 2025 sixth-round pick to the Baltimore Ravens.
The Impact on the 2025 NFL Draft
These trades have a ripple effect on the upcoming NFL Draft. Teams that addressed needs through trades may now have the flexibility to target the best player available or trade down to acquire additional assets. For example, the Patriots’ acquisition of Diggs gives them the freedom to focus on offensive tackle with their first-round pick.
Conversely, teams that lost key players in trades may now be forced to address those positions early in the draft. The Seahawks, having traded away Smith and Metcalf, will likely be in the market for a quarterback and wide receiver.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 NFL season promises to be one of exciting changes and new beginnings, with these trades setting the stage for potential shifts in power across the league.