The NFL trade deadline is approaching, and several high-profile players could be on the move. Jonathan Taylor, Brian Thomas Jr., Josh Sweat and Josh Downs headline a list of 25 potential trade candidates who could reshape the playoff race.
With the 2026 NFL trade deadline set for Tuesday, November 10, at 4 p.m. ET, teams have less than two weeks to decide whether to strengthen their rosters, acquire future draft capital or stand pat for the rest of the season.
Several players have emerged as possible trade targets, ranging from established stars who could immediately improve a contender to younger players who might benefit from a fresh start. Running backs, wide receivers and pass rushers are among the positions attracting attention, although offensive and defensive linemen could also generate interest.
The following rankings focus on each player's potential impact with a new team, rather than simply how likely a trade is to happen. The estimated trade probabilities reflect the current level of speculation, while the suggested destinations represent potential fits—not confirmed negotiations.
1. Jonathan Taylor, RB, Indianapolis Colts
Estimated trade probability: 30%
Taylor could be the most impactful player available if Indianapolis decides to listen to serious offers. Despite considerable interest from other teams, the Colts may prefer to retain the star running back because of his long-term contract and importance to their future plans.
Taylor is averaging 109.3 total yards per game and is tied for the league lead with eight rushing touchdowns. His combination of decisive running, breakaway speed and receiving ability makes him an attractive option for a team looking to upgrade its backfield immediately.
Potential destinations: Seattle Seahawks, Washington Commanders, New Orleans Saints, Denver Broncos, Minnesota Vikings.
2. Brian Thomas Jr., WR, Jacksonville Jaguars
Estimated trade probability: 45%
Thomas has become one of the more intriguing names on the trade market as his targets and playing time have declined in Jacksonville. Rival teams are monitoring the situation, with Kansas City and Pittsburgh among the clubs exploring potential receiver upgrades.
The 6-foot-3 wideout recorded 87 receptions and 10 touchdowns as a rookie in 2024. Although his production has dropped sharply this season to nine catches for 105 yards and one touchdown, his size, speed and ability to separate downfield could still make him a valuable addition.
A change of scenery could help Thomas rediscover the form that made him one of the league's most promising young receivers.
Potential destinations: Kansas City Chiefs, Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers.
3. Josh Sweat, Edge, Arizona Cardinals
Estimated trade probability: 40%
Sweat could draw significant attention from teams searching for a reliable pass rusher. Dallas has been mentioned as a particularly logical destination, although questions about his contract situation could complicate a potential deal.
Sweat recorded 12 sacks and 37 quarterback pressures last season. His 2026 production has fallen to two sacks and 10 pressures, but his explosive first step and ability to convert speed into power remain appealing qualities.
A contender could view Sweat as a useful addition to a defensive front that needs more pressure off the edge.
Potential destinations: Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bears, San Francisco 49ers.
4. Yaya Diaby, Edge, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Estimated trade probability: 35%
Diaby remains a possible trade candidate despite delivering a three-sack performance against Carolina in Week 7. Tampa Bay must weigh his value against its longer-term plans, particularly with the defender approaching free agency in 2027.
The 27-year-old has recorded three sacks and six tackles for loss this season. He also brings the physical strength to set the edge against the run, making him more than a situational pass rusher.
With David Walker emerging as another option on the defensive line, Tampa Bay could consider an offer that improves its future draft position.
Potential destinations: Cleveland Browns, Seattle Seahawks, Dallas Cowboys.
5. Jerry Jeudy, WR, Cleveland Browns
Estimated trade probability: 20%
Cleveland is not actively shopping Jeudy, but a significant offer could prompt the Browns to consider a move. His role in three-receiver formations and experience within the offense make a departure less straightforward.
Jeudy is capable of creating separation with sharp route running and sudden changes of direction. He recorded a career-high 1,229 receiving yards in 2024, although he has managed only 16 receptions this season.
His inconsistent hands remain a concern, but teams needing another experienced receiver could still explore the possibility.
Potential destinations: Kansas City Chiefs, Las Vegas Raiders, Washington Commanders.
6. Daron Payne, DT, Washington Commanders
Estimated trade probability: 25%
Payne could become a valuable asset if Washington decides to prioritize future draft picks. The Commanders have struggled to a 1-4-1 record, but the possibility of remaining competitive in the NFC East could encourage them to keep the veteran defensive tackle.
Payne's quick feet and strength make him difficult to handle in individual matchups, and he can contribute against the run from multiple alignments. His best season came in 2022, when he recorded 11.5 sacks, although his sack production has been more modest since then.
Jacksonville could be interested in adding an interior defender capable of generating pressure.
Potential destinations: Jacksonville Jaguars, New York Giants, Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
7. Khalil Mack, Edge, Los Angeles Chargers
Estimated trade probability: 35%
Mack could offer a contender an experienced pass rusher without requiring a major financial commitment for the remainder of the season. A return to Chicago is one potential scenario, while Cleveland, Buffalo and Dallas could also benefit from his presence.
Although Mack no longer displays the same explosive speed he once did, his strength, hand usage and counter moves remain effective. He has produced 14.5 sacks and 83 pressures over the past three seasons.
His versatility allows him to line up as either a defensive end or a pass-rushing linebacker, making him an appealing option for a variety of defensive systems.
Potential destinations: Chicago Bears, Cleveland Browns, Buffalo Bills, Dallas Cowboys.
8. Riq Woolen, CB, Philadelphia Eagles
Estimated trade probability: 35%
Woolen's combination of size and speed could make him one of the more attractive cornerbacks available. At 6-foot-4, he offers the length to disrupt receivers and the speed to remain competitive in coverage.
Across five professional seasons, Woolen has recorded 12 interceptions and 57 pass breakups. His tackling and eye discipline still offer room for improvement, but his ability to make plays on the perimeter could interest teams seeking help in man coverage or two-deep zone schemes.
His relatively modest base salary could also make a deal easier to structure.
Potential destinations: Detroit Lions, Carolina Panthers, Pittsburgh Steelers.
9. Budda Baker, S, Arizona Cardinals
Estimated trade probability: 35%
Baker could be an appealing addition for a contender seeking a physical, versatile safety. Arizona may also consider collecting additional draft capital as it continues to reshape its roster.
The veteran has earned seven consecutive Pro Bowl selections and recorded 3.5 sacks this season. His downhill speed, run defense and blitzing ability make him useful near the line of scrimmage as well as in split-field coverage schemes.
His remaining financial commitments could affect the market, but his experience and leadership would be valuable to a team preparing for a postseason run.
Potential destinations: Buffalo Bills, Jacksonville Jaguars.
10. Patrick Queen, LB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Estimated trade probability: 20%
Queen has previously attracted trade interest, including from Dallas, but Pittsburgh's 5-2 record could make the Steelers reluctant to part with him.
Queen is an aggressive linebacker with strong lateral pursuit and the speed to close on underneath passes. He has recorded at least 115 tackles in each of his previous four seasons and added 26 pass breakups over the past five years.
Although he can struggle to identify running lanes in congested situations, his athleticism and experience could strengthen the middle of another defense.
Potential destinations: Dallas Cowboys, Buffalo Bills.
11. Jermaine Johnson II, Edge, Tennessee Titans
Estimated trade probability: 30%
Tennessee's 1-6 start could lead the rebuilding team to consider offers for Johnson, who arrived through an offseason trade. Teams seeking help on the edge may view him as an attainable option if the price is right.
Johnson has 16 career sacks over five professional seasons. While he has not consistently demonstrated elite pass-rushing traits, his length, strength and relentless effort can help him pressure quarterbacks and set a firm edge against the run.
His previous connection with coach Robert Saleh could be a factor in Tennessee's evaluation, but the team's broader rebuilding priorities may ultimately determine his future.
Potential destinations: Cleveland Browns, Chicago Bears.
12. Landon Dickerson, G, Philadelphia Eagles
Estimated trade probability: 25%
Dickerson's future in Philadelphia has become a subject of speculation amid questions about his relationship with the organization and the Eagles' plans to refresh their offensive line.
Injuries have affected his availability, but a healthy Dickerson remains a powerful run blocker who can create movement in both zone and gap schemes. At 6-foot-6 and 332 pounds, he also has the size and strength to hold up against interior pass rushers.
His return against Dallas offered a reminder of what he can provide when available. Teams needing experienced offensive line help could view him as a worthwhile investment.
Potential destinations: Los Angeles Chargers, Green Bay Packers.
13. Josh Downs, WR, Indianapolis Colts
Estimated trade probability: 45%
Downs could be one of the most sought-after receivers if Indianapolis opens the door to a deal. His ability to find open space underneath and consistently move the chains would suit offenses looking for a reliable short-area target.
He has recorded 224 receptions and 11 touchdowns across four professional seasons. Downs uses quick footwork and strong awareness against coverage to create separation between the numbers.
Kansas City could be an especially interesting destination if the Chiefs want to add another dependable option to their passing game. Pittsburgh is another potential fit.
Potential destinations: Kansas City Chiefs, Pittsburgh Steelers.
14. Donte Jackson, CB, Los Angeles Chargers
Estimated trade probability: 25%
Jackson could provide immediate help to a team searching for cornerback depth. At 30, he offers considerable NFL experience and has produced 23 interceptions and 68 pass breakups during his career.
His closing speed and route awareness make him particularly effective in zone coverage, where he can read the quarterback and break on passes. With a $6 million base salary and free agency approaching, Jackson could be a manageable short-term addition.
Potential destinations: Carolina Panthers, Detroit Lions, Baltimore Ravens.
15. Shemar Stewart, Edge, Cincinnati Bengals
Estimated trade probability: 35%
Stewart is a developmental prospect who could interest teams willing to bet on upside rather than immediate production. The 2025 first-round pick has played only eight snaps this season and was inactive for Cincinnati's game against Baltimore.
His explosive movement and physical profile give him the tools to develop into a productive edge defender. However, he has yet to establish a consistent pass-rush approach and has recorded two career sacks.
Cincinnati rarely moves on quickly from recent draft picks, but the emergence of rookie Cashius Howell could give the team more flexibility if an offer arrives.
Potential destinations: Philadelphia Eagles, Detroit Lions.
16. Jauan Jennings, WR, Minnesota Vikings
Estimated trade probability: 50%
Jennings has emerged as one of the more plausible candidates to move before the deadline. He has struggled to earn a meaningful role in Minnesota's offense, catching just four of eight targets, and is playing on a one-year contract.
His limited production this season does not erase his previous reputation as a dependable receiver. Jennings runs consistent routes, handles contact well and gives quarterbacks a reliable option on in-breaking patterns.
A reunion with San Francisco could make sense, while the Rams and Falcons could also consider adding him to their receiver groups.
Potential destinations: Los Angeles Rams, Atlanta Falcons, San Francisco 49ers.
17. Chris Godwin Jr., WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Estimated trade probability: 15%
Godwin has spent a decade in Tampa Bay, but his production has been affected since his 2024 ankle injury. His substantial remaining cash compensation—$22 million this year—could make a trade difficult to complete.
Still, the veteran offers experience and versatility. He can line up in the slot or outside, find open space against coverage and make catches in traffic over the middle.
A contender that values dependable route running and veteran leadership could consider him if the financial terms become workable.
Potential destinations: Kansas City Chiefs, Washington Commanders.
18. Rashod Bateman, WR, Baltimore Ravens
Estimated trade probability: 15%
Bateman's role in Baltimore has often been secondary, and a move could offer him an opportunity to become a more prominent part of an offense. The Ravens are not particularly deep at receiver, however, which could make them hesitant to trade him.
Bateman brings separation speed and the ability to track deep passes. He is not known primarily for contested catches, but he can contribute as a third receiver while lining up both outside and in the Z position.
The emergence of rookie Ja'Kobi Lane could give Baltimore additional flexibility in deciding how to structure its receiver room.
Potential destinations: Washington Commanders, Kansas City Chiefs.
19. Jackson Powers-Johnson, G, Las Vegas Raiders
Estimated trade probability: 35%
Powers-Johnson could be an affordable option for teams searching for help on the interior offensive line. His benching in Week 6 has added to speculation that a change of scenery might benefit both sides.
He demonstrated considerable promise as a rookie in 2024, posting a 93.3% pass-block win rate. However, injuries limited him to eight games last season, and his run-block win rate has fallen to 62.7% in 2026.
Teams that valued him highly during the draft process may be willing to take a chance on his ability to rebound.
Potential destinations: Jacksonville Jaguars, Los Angeles Chargers.
20. Quentin Johnston, WR, Los Angeles Chargers
Estimated trade probability: 25%
Johnston has been mentioned as a possible trade candidate since the spring. The Chargers previously chose to retain him and exercise his fifth-year option, but the team's 0-6 start has renewed questions about whether its roster could be reshaped.
At 6-foot-3 and 208 pounds, Johnston has the size and straight-line speed to threaten defenses vertically. Drops remain a concern, and he has recorded just eight receptions this season. Nevertheless, he posted at least 700 receiving yards in both 2024 and 2025 and has 18 career touchdown receptions.
A team looking for a third receiver with big-play potential might consider taking a chance on him.
Potential destinations: San Francisco 49ers, Las Vegas Raiders, Pittsburgh Steelers.
21. A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Estimated trade probability: 30%
Robinson could be a low-cost option for a contender seeking additional defensive line depth. The veteran has played for several franchises, giving him experience in different defensive systems and connections across the league.
At 6-foot-3 and 320 pounds, Robinson is primarily a run defender who can line up at nose tackle or defensive tackle. Although his pass-rushing production is limited, he can help collapse the pocket and strengthen an early-down defensive rotation.
His ability to occupy blockers could make him useful for a team preparing for physical postseason matchups.
Potential destinations: Los Angeles Rams, Baltimore Ravens, New York Giants.
22. Kirk Cousins, QB, Las Vegas Raiders
Estimated trade probability: 20%
Cousins could become an option for a team that suddenly needs a veteran quarterback. His reworked contract includes a base salary of $1.3 million, potentially making him a relatively inexpensive short-term acquisition.
He has thrown 16 touchdown passes against five interceptions this season. Cousins remains a timing-based pocket passer who can identify coverage after the snap and deliver accurate throws from structured concepts.
His limited mobility means he is best suited to an offense that uses play-action and gives him clear reads. If Las Vegas is prepared to hand the starting job to rookie Fernando Mendoza, Cousins could become available.
Potential destinations: Carolina Panthers, New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings.
23. Cesar Ruiz, G, New Orleans Saints
Estimated trade probability: 25%
Ruiz could attract interest from teams looking to strengthen their interior offensive line. New Orleans, sitting at 2-5, may consider roster changes, although losing starting tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. to an injury makes trading away another lineman a difficult decision.
Ruiz has generally been dependable in pass protection, recording a pass-block win rate of at least 90% in five of his seven professional seasons. His run blocking is less consistent, particularly when asked to generate movement at the point of attack.
Detroit and Washington could explore whether Ruiz would improve their offensive line depth.
Potential destinations: Detroit Lions, Washington Commanders.
24. Tony Pollard, RB, Tennessee Titans
Estimated trade probability: 15%
Pollard could become an alternative for teams unable to acquire Jonathan Taylor. His ability to change direction, find running lanes and contribute as a receiver gives him value as a potential lead back.
Pollard produced 155 total yards against Cleveland in Week 7, demonstrating the impact he can still make when given opportunities. He has also recorded at least 30 receptions in each of his previous five seasons.
However, Tennessee may be reluctant to remove an important offensive weapon while developing quarterback Cam Ward. That could reduce the likelihood of a deal despite interest from running-back-needy teams.
Potential destinations: Washington Commanders, Minnesota Vikings.
25. Alontae Taylor, CB, Tennessee Titans
Estimated trade probability: 10%
Taylor rounds out the list as a talented cornerback whose contract could complicate a move. His entire $20.5 million salary for 2027 is guaranteed, creating a substantial financial commitment for any acquiring team.
The defender struggled early in his first season with Tennessee, but his athleticism and versatility remain attractive. He can cover receivers on the perimeter or contribute in the slot, and he recorded four interceptions, 40 pass breakups and seven sacks during his four seasons with New Orleans.
The right team could still view Taylor as a worthwhile addition at a premium position.
Potential destinations: Chicago Bears, Pittsburgh Steelers.
Other NFL players worth monitoring
Several additional names could enter trade discussions before the deadline. These players are not part of the top 25 ranking, but their situations could be worth watching:
Defensive line and edge: Vita Vea, Tuli Tuipulotu, Grover Stewart, Kayvon Thibodeaux and Josh Uche.
Running backs: Kenny Gainwell and Alvin Kamara.
Quarterbacks: Jacoby Brissett.
Wide receivers: Hollywood Brown and Stefon Diggs.
Tight ends: Dallas Goedert and Ja'Tavion Sanders.
Offensive linemen: Andrew Wylie and Braden Smith.
Linebackers: Cole Holcomb.
Defensive backs: Jack Jones and Jessie Bates III.
Which NFL trades could have the biggest impact?
Several potential moves stand out because they could immediately change a team's strengths and weaknesses.
Jonathan Taylor would give a contender a proven lead running back capable of producing explosive plays and touchdowns. Brian Thomas Jr. could offer a team a high-upside receiver whose best football may still be ahead of him. On defense, Josh Sweat and Khalil Mack could strengthen a pass rush without requiring a team to develop a younger player.
The receiver market could be especially interesting. Downs offers a dependable underneath target, while Jennings could provide a relatively inexpensive option for teams seeking depth. Meanwhile, players such as Woolen and Baker could help contenders improve their secondary.
Not every name on this list will be traded. Contract guarantees, draft compensation, team records and the availability of replacement players will all influence negotiations. Rebuilding teams may prioritize future picks, while clubs in the playoff race will need to determine whether a midseason addition is worth the cost.
With the deadline approaching on November 10, the next several days could reveal which teams are serious about strengthening their rosters—and which are preparing to look toward 2027.
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