Trade Block Buzz: Which NFL Stars Could Be on the Move Before the 2025 Draft?

The NFL is a constantly evolving landscape, and with the 2025 NFL Draft just around the corner (April 24-26 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin), teams are evaluating their rosters and considering potential moves to improve their chances of success. As the 2024 season fades into memory, with the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles hoisting the Lombardi Trophy, several high-profile players find themselves in the rumor mill, potentially seeking new homes before the next wave of rookies arrives.

Quarterback Carousel: Stafford, Cousins, and the Uncertain Future

The quarterback position is always a focal point of trade discussions, and several veteran signal-callers could be on the move. Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams is one name that has surfaced. Despite leading the Rams to a Super Bowl victory in 2021, the team is reportedly focused on building a younger core, while Stafford is said to be seeking a pay raise at age 37. The Rams have reportedly allowed Stafford’s agent to explore potential contracts with other teams.

Kirk Cousins of the Atlanta Falcons is another quarterback whose future is uncertain. While the Falcons could attract suitors for Cousins, his performance in 2024 (72.3 PFF passing grade) and his $40 million cap hit in 2025 might complicate a potential trade.

Gardner Minshew of the Las Vegas Raiders is another quarterback who could be on the move. With Aidan O’Connell on a rookie contract for two more years, the Raiders might look to add to the position through free agency, the draft, or a trade, making Minshew expendable.

Star Wide Receivers: Aiyuk, Samuel, and Metcalf Potentially Available

Wide receiver is another position where several big names could be on the trade block. Brandon Aiyuk of the San Francisco 49ers has been the subject of trade rumors, while his teammate Deebo Samuel is also reportedly available. The 49ers have reportedly allowed Samuel to explore other opportunities, with the issue being his availability and health, along with a contract that expires after 2025.

DK Metcalf of the Seattle Seahawks is another star receiver who could be on the move. With Jaxon Smith-Njigba emerging as the Seahawks’ top pass-catcher in 2024, Metcalf could be deemed expendable. Metcalf is due more than $30 million in 2025 and has just one season remaining on his contract.

Davante Adams of the New York Jets is another receiver who has been mentioned in trade rumors. The Buffalo Bills were reportedly front-runners in the Adams market at the trade deadline before the Jets landed him.

Defensive Stars: Garrett and Thibodeaux Could Be on the Market

On the defensive side of the ball, Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns is one of the biggest names that could be available. The superstar defensive end requested a trade shortly after the 2024 season, citing his desire to win a Super Bowl as the reason. Garrett finished the 2024 season ranked first or second in sacks (14), pressures (83), hurries (56), and PFF pass-rush grade (92.8).

Kayvon Thibodeaux of the New York Giants is another defensive player who could be on the move. The former fifth-overall pick displayed encouraging signs last season with a 72.0 PFF pass-rushing grade, but he saw time on only 593 snaps.

Other Notable Trade Candidates

Several other players at various positions could also be on the trade block:

Kyle Pitts, TE, Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons picked up Pitts’ fifth-year option for $10.9 million dollars, all of which would be moved to his new team if he is traded.
Christian Kirk, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jaguars could save $10.4 million by cutting or trading Kirk.
Demario Davis, LB, New Orleans Saints: Davis has a little more uncertainty after his contract was restructured, leaving him on a one-year deal.
Jalen Pitre, S, Houston Texans: The Texans traded for C.J. Gardner-Johnson this offseason, and also have second-year piece Calen Bullock and veteran Jimmie Ward on the roster, making Pitre expendable.

Potential Trade Scenarios and Team Needs

Several teams could be active in the trade market as they look to address their needs heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. The Tennessee Titans, who hold the No. 1 overall pick, could be a team to watch. They have needs at quarterback, edge rusher, wide receiver, linebacker, tight end, defensive line, and safety.

The Cleveland Browns, who pick second overall, have needs at quarterback, offensive line, edge rusher, running back, and safety. The New York Giants, who pick third overall, have needs at quarterback, offensive line, linebacker, cornerback, and defensive line.

Other teams with multiple needs include the New England Patriots (offensive tackle, interior offensive line, wide receiver, edge rusher, tight end), the Jacksonville Jaguars (wide receiver, tight end, safety, offensive tackle, defensive line, linebacker), and the Las Vegas Raiders (wide receiver, cornerback, interior offensive line, safety, defensive line, running back).

The Impact of Free Agency

The 2025 NFL free agency period, which begins on March 12, will also play a significant role in shaping the trade market. Teams will be looking to fill their needs through free agency, which could impact their willingness to trade for certain players.

Several notable players are set to become free agents in 2025, including Tee Higgins (WR, Bengals), Trey Smith (G, Chiefs), Jevon Holland (S, Dolphins), Chris Godwin (WR, Buccaneers), and Khalil Mack (EDGE, Chargers).

Conclusion

The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting event, with several high-profile players potentially on the move before the big day. The quarterback carousel, the availability of star wide receivers, and the potential for defensive stars to be traded all add to the intrigue. As teams evaluate their rosters and assess their needs, the trade market is sure to heat up in the weeks leading up to the draft.