Image Source: CBS Sports
NFL trades could become the defining storyline of the 2026 season, with the deadline now only two weeks away. Several teams appear headed toward difficult decisions, while contenders may be searching for running backs, pass rushers, defensive leaders, wide receivers and quarterback insurance.
According to CBS Sports, 25 potential trade targets are connected to 10 situations worth monitoring. The list includes several established stars, younger players with upside and veterans who could be moved before their contracts expire. The Eagles and Colts lead the group with multiple possible candidates, but the Titans, Chargers, Cardinals and other struggling teams could also influence the market.
Explosive NFL Trades Could Begin With the Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles are one of the most fascinating teams on the list, with four players identified as possible trade candidates. The most surprising name is Saquon Barkley, whose contract includes complicated option bonuses and whose current hamstring injury adds uncertainty.
Barkley remains one of the league’s most explosive running backs. His age, injury situation and contract could affect his trade value, but a team searching for a dynamic offensive weapon may still be interested if he returns to health. Philadelphia’s struggles could also make a major roster shake-up more realistic.
- Moro Ojomo: The defensive tackle is in the final year of his rookie contract and recorded six sacks last season.
- Nolan Smith: Philadelphia picked up his fifth-year option, but long-term financial concerns could make him available.
- Dallas Goedert: His affordable base salary and dependable blocking and receiving ability could appeal to teams seeking tight-end depth.
Jonathan Taylor Headlines Colts Trade Rumors
The Indianapolis Colts already traded Quenton Nelson to Seattle for draft picks, and more movement may follow. Jonathan Taylor is the centerpiece of the Colts’ potential trade discussion despite the team’s offensive collapse.
Taylor has produced 587 rushing yards and eight touchdowns while averaging 4.2 yards per carry. His 55% rushing success rate, as noted by CBS Sports, shows that his overall impact remains strong. Indianapolis would take on approximately $10 million in dead money next year, but the potential return could make a trade worth considering.
DeForest Buckner is another name to watch. The veteran defensive tackle has reportedly voiced frustration with the direction of the team and is in the final year of his contract. Indianapolis could seek compensation now rather than risk losing him in free agency.
Powerful Veteran Assets Across the NFL
The Tennessee Titans have several players who could attract interest. Jeffery Simmons would be a surprising trade, given his three-year, $105.8 million extension, but he is also the team’s most valuable asset during a potential rebuild. Safety Amani Hooker offers positional versatility, while Tony Pollard remains a credible committee back despite being 29 years old.
Calvin Ridley has fallen out of favor in Tennessee and could provide depth for a team needing help at wide receiver. The Chargers also have intriguing options, including veteran pass rusher Khalil Mack, emerging edge defender Tuli Tuipulotu, safety Derwin James and wide receiver Quentin Johnston.
Tuipulotu’s underlying numbers are especially notable. Although he has only two sacks, his pressure rate ranks among the league’s better marks for players with significant pass-rush snaps. Johnston, meanwhile, has just eight catches for 165 yards and no touchdowns, making his potential trade return difficult to project.
Surprising Quarterback and Young Player Targets
The Arizona Cardinals could listen on Budda Baker, whose versatility and experience would make him valuable to a contender. Josh Sweat is another possibility despite a slow start, while Jacoby Brissett could interest a club searching for a reliable backup or short-term starter.
Other notable names include Jacksonville wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr., Washington defensive tackle Daron Payne and New York Jets edge rusher Will McDonald IV. Thomas has reportedly lost playing time, but his rookie production could still encourage teams to make an offer. McDonald has posted 10.5 and eight sacks in his previous two seasons, giving him considerable upside.
At quarterback, Kirk Cousins has thrown for 1,877 yards, 16 touchdowns and five interceptions for the Raiders. Although Las Vegas may prefer to keep him as a mentor for Fernando Mendoza, Cousins could become attractive to a team dealing with an injury under center.
Critical NFL Trade Deadline Questions
The Vikings’ Jauan Jennings situation is also worth watching, even though Minnesota remains unbeaten and would usually be expected to acquire talent rather than sell it. His limited offensive role could create an opportunity for a receiver-needy team.
The deadline market will ultimately depend on injuries, contract structures and how aggressively general managers value future draft capital. With multiple contenders searching for immediate help, these NFL trades could change playoff races and reshape several rebuilding rosters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the biggest NFL trade candidate?
Saquon Barkley and Jonathan Taylor stand out because both are proven, explosive running backs who could immediately improve a contender’s offense.
Why could the Eagles make multiple trades?
Philadelphia has several players approaching contract decisions, while the team’s struggles could encourage it to collect draft capital and address longer-term roster needs.
Could Kirk Cousins be traded?
Cousins could interest teams needing quarterback insurance, although the Raiders may prefer to keep him while developing Fernando Mendoza.
Which young player has the most upside?
Will McDonald IV and Tuli Tuipulotu are appealing targets because both are young pass rushers with production and underlying metrics suggesting future growth.
