Pass Rush on the Move: Which Edge Rushers Could Be Traded in the 2025 NFL Season?

The NFL is a league of constant motion, where player movement can dramatically reshape team fortunes. As the 2025 season approaches, several factors, including contract situations, team needs, and salary cap constraints, could lead to some high-profile edge rushers finding themselves on the trade block. With the 2025 NFL salary cap set to jump to approximately $279.2 million, teams will have more flexibility to make deals, but tough decisions will still need to be made. Last season, the Texans’ Danielle Hunter led the team with 12 sacks, showcasing the impact a dominant edge rusher can have. Which pass rushers might be on the move in 2025?

Contract Year Concerns

One of the primary drivers of potential trades is the looming specter of expiring contracts. Teams facing the prospect of losing a key player for nothing in free agency might prefer to trade them for valuable draft capital.

Trey Hendrickson (Cincinnati Bengals): Hendrickson’s name has been circulating in trade rumors. He has voiced concerns about communication with the Bengals regarding his contract. Since 2022, Hendrickson’s 92.2 pass-rush grade is tied for fifth among all edge defenders. The Bengals may need to offload Hendrickson if they are unwilling to meet his contract demands, which could be around $34 million per year. Several teams could be a good fit such as the Patriots, Panthers, and Cardinals.

Underperforming Free Agent Signings

Sometimes, free agent acquisitions simply don’t pan out as expected. If a player struggles to fit into a team’s scheme or fails to produce at the level anticipated, they could become a trade candidate.

Bryce Huff (Philadelphia Eagles): Huff signed a three-year, $51 million deal with the Eagles but struggled to make an impact, recording just 2.5 sacks. He may not be a good fit in the defensive scheme, and with his $16.75 million salary guaranteed for 2025, the Eagles might look to trade him to free up cap space, even if it means eating some of his salary. Teams like the 49ers and Falcons, with a need for edge rushers and former coaches who have worked with Huff, could be potential destinations.

The Salary Cap Squeeze

The NFL salary cap is a constant challenge for general managers. Teams often have to make difficult choices about which players to retain and which to let go.

Kayvon Thibodeaux (New York Giants): While Thibodeaux has been a solid player for the Giants, he hasn’t yet reached elite status. Through three seasons, he has 21 sacks, but his advanced pass-rush numbers are only average. The Giants might consider trading him to avoid a potentially expensive extension, especially if they can get a good return in draft capital. Teams like the Cardinals, Bengals, and Jets could be interested.

Veteran Leadership on the Block

Teams undergoing a rebuild might decide to part ways with veteran players in exchange for younger assets. Even highly productive veterans can be traded if they don’t fit the team’s long-term plans.

T.J. Watt (Pittsburgh Steelers): This is a less likely scenario, but some analysts have suggested that the Steelers should explore trading Watt. While Watt has been the heart of the Steelers’ defense for years, he is also entering his 30s and will command a significant pay raise. With the edge rusher market continuing to rise, the Steelers might consider trading Watt to a team willing to pay a premium. Watt managed 11.5 sacks and six forced fumbles last season.

Unexpected Availability

Sometimes, players become available due to unforeseen circumstances, such as a change in coaching staff or a shift in team philosophy. These situations can create unexpected trade opportunities.

Tyreek Hill (Miami Dolphins): Though not strictly an edge rusher, Hill’s name has appeared in trade discussions. While Miami missed the window to maximize a return on a Tyreek Hill trade, it’s also understandable as to why they wanted to see if he and Tua Tagovailoa could spark a dynasty.

Teams with Cap Space to Make Moves

Several teams are projected to have significant cap space in 2025, giving them the flexibility to acquire high-priced edge rushers via trade.

New England Patriots: The Patriots are projected to have the most cap space in the league.
Los Angeles Chargers: The Chargers are also expected to have ample cap space.
Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals are another team with the potential to be big spenders in 2025.
Chicago Bears: The Bears are projected to have roughly $46 million in available cap space.

Potential Trade Partners

Several teams could be in the market for edge rushers in 2025, depending on their needs and cap situations.

Carolina Panthers: The Panthers have a significant need for edge rushers.
Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons could also be looking to bolster their pass rush.
Green Bay Packers: The Packers will have roughly $49 million in salary cap space.

The Impact of the 2025 NFL Draft

The 2025 NFL Draft will also play a role in the trade market for edge rushers. Teams that fail to address their needs in the draft might be more aggressive in pursuing trades for veteran players.

Donovan Ezeiruaku (Boston College): A potential target for the Carolina Panthers.
Bradyn Swinson (LSU): Another edge rusher the Panthers might consider.
Quandarrius Robinson (Alabama): A late-round option for teams looking for pass-rushing talent.

Conclusion

The 2025 NFL season could see significant movement among edge rushers, with several factors contributing to potential trades. Contract situations, underperforming free agent signings, salary cap constraints, and unexpected availability could all lead to high-profile players changing teams. As teams gear up for the 2025 season, the market for pass-rushing talent is likely to be active, with several big names potentially on the move.