As the 2024 NFL season progresses, teams are beginning to identify themselves as serious Super Bowl contenders, while others are already turning their attention toward rebuilding for the future. With the NFL trade deadline looming on November 5, the coming weeks promise to see a flurry of activity, particularly as teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, and Minnesota Vikings continue to assert themselves at the top of their divisions. In contrast, organizations like the Cleveland Browns, Carolina Panthers, and Tennessee Titans may look to offload veteran talent in exchange for valuable draft picks to reload their rosters.
Recent trades have already set the stage for a busy deadline, with notable deals such as Davante Adams joining the New York Jets and Amari Cooper heading to the Buffalo Bills. These win-now trades signal that front offices are eager to bolster their rosters with proven talent that can make an immediate impact. As the deadline approaches, several veterans on struggling teams are expected to be in high demand among contenders.
One NFL insider, Diana Russini, has highlighted four players to watch as potential trade candidates. These names could significantly shift the balance of power in the league if they are moved.
Deebo Samuel
Deebo Samuel of the San Francisco 49ers is arguably the most impactful player on this list. Known for his versatility, Samuel can excel as both a wide receiver and a running back, making him a dual-threat weapon on any offense. At just 28 years old, he remains in his prime, and his ability to create mismatches on the field would be invaluable for a contending team. Teams looking to enhance their offensive firepower would be wise to pursue Samuel, who has proven he can deliver in high-pressure situations. His dynamic skill set could be the missing piece for a contender seeking to solidify its playoff aspirations.
Bryce Young
Quarterback Bryce Young has faced challenges during his time with the Carolina Panthers, including being benched as the team’s starter. However, his talent and potential make him an intriguing prospect for rebuilding teams. Young’s experience as a former first overall pick means he carries high expectations, but he could thrive in a new environment where he has the chance to develop without the immense pressure he faced in Carolina. A team looking for a young quarterback to develop could view Young as a reclamation project, providing him with the opportunity to regain confidence and showcase his abilities.
DeAndre Hopkins
DeAndre Hopkins, currently with the Tennessee Titans, is another veteran receiver who could attract interest from contenders. Despite playing for a struggling team, Hopkins has consistently demonstrated his elite receiving skills throughout his career. He can provide a reliable target for any quarterback and elevate an offense with his experience and playmaking ability. For teams that need a boost in their receiving corps, acquiring Hopkins could be a game-changer, as he can perform at a high level even in challenging circumstances.
Za’Darius Smith
On the defensive side of the ball, Za’Darius Smith of the Cleveland Browns is a name to watch. As a productive pass rusher, Smith has shown that he can still make an impact on the field. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt opposing offenses would be a valuable asset for many teams looking to bolster their defenses ahead of a playoff push. Smith’s experience and skills could help solidify a defensive line that needs an extra boost, making him an attractive option for teams eyeing a deeper postseason run.
Implications for the Trade Market
As the trade deadline approaches, these players will likely draw significant interest from teams seeking to improve their chances of success. The dynamics of the NFL can change rapidly, and the addition of even one of these veterans could tip the scales for a contender.
For franchises in the midst of rebuilding, dealing these veterans for draft picks could facilitate a quicker turnaround. By offloading established talent, they can accumulate assets that will serve them well in future drafts, helping to build a foundation for sustained success.
In conclusion, as the NFL trade deadline draws near, the potential moves of Deebo Samuel, Bryce Young, DeAndre Hopkins, and Za’Darius Smith could have a substantial impact on the league landscape. Teams in contention will be looking to acquire players who can contribute immediately, while those in need of a rebuild will weigh the value of securing future draft capital. With only 17 days left until the deadline, the excitement and speculation surrounding potential trades are sure to intensify as teams make their final evaluations and decisions.
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