Trade Deadline Grades: Which NFL Teams Won and Lost?

The 2025 NFL season is already delivering shocking twists, turns, and blockbuster trades that have teams scrambling to re-evaluate their Super Bowl aspirations. With the trade deadline looming on November 4th, several teams have already made bold moves, while others are left pondering “what if?”. Let’s dive into the winners and losers of the 2025 trade deadline so far.

The Big Winners

Los Angeles Rams: The Rams made a huge splash by acquiring superstar wide receiver Davante Adams from the Las Vegas Raiders. This move immediately bolsters their offense, pairing Adams with Puka Nacua and giving quarterback Matthew Stafford another elite target. With five straight 1,000-yard seasons under his belt, Adams brings a proven track record of success and positions the Rams as serious playoff contenders in the NFC. Head Coach Sean McVay is known for his offensive genius, and adding a weapon like Adams only amplifies the Rams’ potential.

San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers, not content with their already stacked roster, acquired running back Brian Robinson Jr. from the Washington Commanders. While Christian McCaffrey remains the undisputed lead back, Robinson provides valuable depth and a powerful complement to the 49ers’ rushing attack. Robinson, who rushed for 799 yards and eight touchdowns in 2024, adds another dimension to Kyle Shanahan’s offense and ensures the 49ers can maintain a high level of play even if injuries occur.

Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers were busy, addressing needs on both sides of the ball. They acquired veteran defensive end Preston Smith from the Green Bay Packers, adding depth and experience to their defensive line. Smith’s ability to rush the passer and set the edge will be a welcome addition to a Steelers defense that is always looking to improve. They also landed wide receiver Mike Williams from the New York Jets, giving quarterback Russell Wilson another talented target. Williams’ size and ability to make contested catches will provide a valuable complement to George Pickens.

Washington Commanders: The Commanders are making a serious push for contention. They acquired Deebo Samuel from the 49ers for a fifth-round pick. The versatile Samuel brings explosiveness and playmaking ability to the Commanders’ offense, giving quarterback Jayden Daniels a dynamic weapon to utilize. They also traded for Laremy Tunsil, solidifying their offensive line and providing crucial protection for Daniels.

The Questionable Moves

Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins, after a disappointing 0-3 start, appear to be teetering on the edge of a rebuild. They traded cornerback Jalen Ramsey, tight end Jonnu Smith, and a 2027 seventh-round pick to the Steelers for safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a 2027 fifth-round pick. While Fitzpatrick is a talented player, the Dolphins are giving up significant talent and depth in Ramsey and Smith. This move signals a potential shift in direction for the Dolphins, but it remains to be seen if it will ultimately pay off. There are also rumors swirling around Tyreek Hill and Jaelan Phillips as potential trade candidates.

Las Vegas Raiders: Trading Davante Adams is a head-scratching move for the Raiders. While they may have received valuable draft capital in return, they are losing one of the league’s best receivers and a key component of their offense. The Raiders are now tasked with finding a way to replace Adams’ production, which will be no easy feat. Wide receiver Jakobi Meyers is also rumored to be on the trade block.

Dallas Cowboys: Despite being below .500, the Cowboys made a move to acquire wide receiver Jonathan Mingo from the Carolina Panthers. However, they gave up a fourth-round pick for Mingo, who has yet to make a significant impact in the NFL. This move has been widely criticized as an overpay for a player who may not be a significant upgrade to the Cowboys’ receiving corps.

Teams on the Hot Seat

New Orleans Saints: After a disappointing start to the season, the Saints could be looking to offload veterans and rebuild for the future. Running back Alvin Kamara and wide receiver Chris Olave could be attractive targets for teams looking for offensive firepower.

Cincinnati Bengals: With Joe Burrow injured and the team struggling, the Bengals may need to consider making moves to bolster their roster for the future. Tight end Noah Fant could be a potential trade candidate.

Carolina Panthers: The Panthers are in rebuilding mode and could be looking to acquire draft capital by trading away veteran players.

Other Notable Trades

Seattle Seahawks: Traded DK Metcalf to the Steelers for a 2025 second-round pick.
Philadelphia Eagles: Traded Kenny Pickett to the Cleveland Browns for quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson and a 2025 fifth-round pick.
Houston Texans: Traded for Ed Ingram from the Vikings in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round pick.

The Deadline Looms

With the trade deadline rapidly approaching, expect more teams to make moves as they assess their playoff chances and look to improve their rosters. The next few weeks could be crucial in shaping the landscape of the 2025 NFL season.