Every NFL team is staring down a critical decision: make a move before the trade deadline, or risk falling behind. With just weeks to go until the November 4th deadline, the pressure is mounting. Teams that want to compete this year must act fast, while those rebuilding can cash in on valuable assets. So far in 2025, we’ve already seen some major deals — including the Chargers and Ravens swapping defenders, the Browns and Jaguars exchanging cornerbacks, and Joe Flacco continuing his journey around the AFC North. But here's where it gets controversial: Which players are most likely to be on the move next? Let’s dive into eight names you need to know — and why their potential trades could shake up the league.
1. Trey Hendrickson – Edge Rusher, Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals made a bold move by acquiring Joe Flacco, signaling they’re not giving up just yet. Still, that doesn’t mean they’re planning to keep every current player. Enter Trey Hendrickson — a four-time Pro Bowler who’s currently leading the team with four sacks. Despite his individual success, Cincinnati’s defense is struggling, ranking near the bottom in both points and yards allowed. At 29 years old and playing on a one-year, $29 million contract, Hendrickson is clearly not part of the long-term plan. And this is the part most people miss: Teams like Dallas, San Francisco, Detroit, and New England could desperately use a pass-rushing upgrade — and Hendrickson might be the perfect fit.
2. Alvin Kamara – Running Back, New Orleans Saints
Alvin Kamara remains the heart and soul of the Saints’ offense, leading the team in rushing and scrimmage yards. He’s been loyal to New Orleans since 2017 and recently restructured his contract, saying he wants to retire as a Saint. But loyalty only goes so far when rebuilding is necessary. With young players like Kendre Miller and Devin Neal ready to step up, New Orleans could afford to part ways. Trading Kamara would help clear salary cap space for 2026 and bring in draft picks. Plus, with so many teams dealing with injuries at running back, Kamara could be the top target for contenders looking to add depth. Should the Saints really trade their franchise icon? That’s a debate worth having in the comments.
3. David Njoku – Tight End, Cleveland Browns
With rookie Harold Fannin Jr. making an immediate impact, the writing might be on the wall for veteran tight end David Njoku. The Browns are entering a youth movement, bringing in new talent at quarterback (Dillon Gabriel), running back (Quinshon Judkins), and now tight end. While Njoku is still productive — second on the team in receptions and receiving yards — he may no longer fit the future vision. His salary isn't a burden thanks to a 2023 contract restructure, but he could be a valuable asset for a team needing receiving depth. Could he be traded before November 4th? It’s more than possible — especially if the Browns are serious about resetting.
4. Mark Andrews – Tight End, Baltimore Ravens
Mark Andrews was once the Ravens’ go-to red-zone threat, but his role has diminished in recent seasons. With Isaiah Likely returning from injury and emerging as the future at tight end, Andrews could be looking for a fresh start. He’s entering the final year of his deal and could command interest from teams seeking an experienced pass-catcher. While his production has dipped, his track record — including being Baltimore’s all-time touchdown leader — makes him an attractive short-term option. Is it time for Andrews to move on? The Ravens may be asking themselves that very question.
T-5. Myles Jack & Jaelan Phillips – Edge Rushers, Miami Dolphins
Miami’s defense has struggled mightily in 2025, ranking near the bottom in points and yards allowed. Myles Jack and Jaelan Phillips are both key pieces up front, but their situations are vastly different. Jack, who turns 30 next summer, has shown he can still produce with four sacks this season. Phillips, younger but plagued by injuries, has just one sack. Given Miami’s 1-4 record, it might be time to consider trading either — or both. Jack could fetch a decent return for a playoff-hopeful team, while moving Phillips would open cap space and give Miami flexibility. Which one gets moved first? That’s anyone’s guess.
7. Kayvon Thibodeaux – Edge Rusher, New York Giants
The Giants’ pass rush is loaded with talent, including Brian Burns and top pick Abdul Carter. That leaves Kayvon Thibodeaux as the odd man out. While he’s shown flashes — 2.5 sacks and 20 QB pressures this season — he’s not the clear-cut leader like Burns or the future cornerstone like Carter. New York exercised his fifth-year option for 2026, but that doesn’t mean he’s untouchable. A trade could net the Giants valuable draft capital while freeing up playing time for younger talent. Is Thibodeaux expendable? Based on current usage, it looks that way.
8. Jameis Winston – Quarterback, New York Giants
Jameis Winston hasn’t played a snap this season, sitting as the Giants’ third-string QB behind Daniel Jones and Tommy DeVito. After a rough 2024 season with the Browns — where he threw 13 touchdowns to 12 interceptions — Winston might not be the long-term answer for anyone. But he could be a short-term fix for a team in desperate need of signal-caller depth. Compared to veterans like Russell Wilson or Kirk Cousins, Winston is cheaper and more available. While he might not lead a team to the Super Bowl, he could buy a few wins. Would you trade for Winston if you were a contender? It’s a risk worth considering.
Final Thoughts:
The NFL trade deadline isn’t just about making moves — it’s about making the right moves. Each of these eight players represents a potential turning point for their teams, whether through salary relief, draft capital, or on-field improvement. But not every trade makes sense, and not every player should be moved. Which of these eight candidates do you think will be traded by November 4th? And which ones should stay put? Drop your thoughts in the comments — we’d love to hear your take.
