NFL Teams Primed for Active Trade Market as Deadline Approaches
The NFL is bracing for a flurry of trades as teams assess their needs ahead of the October 31st trade deadline. Recent activity, including multiple deals within the AFC North this week, signals an expectation of continued roster adjustments as contenders seek to bolster their playoff chances and rebuilding teams focus on future assets.
This year’s anticipated trade activity builds on a recent trend of impactful mid-season acquisitions. Last season, the los Angeles Rams acquired Von Miller from the Denver Broncos, a move that contributed to their Super Bowl LVI victory. The Kansas City Chiefs followed suit, trading for Kadarius Toney from the New York Giants, who played a key role in their Super Bowl win with a 65-yard punt return and a touchdown. These successes have prompted other teams to explore similar opportunities.
Three of the four AFC north teams - Baltimore,Cincinnati,and Cleveland – completed trades on Tuesday. The Pittsburgh Steelers, currently in first place in the division, are expected to explore potential upgrades in the coming weeks. Winning teams are aiming to strengthen their rosters for a deep playoff run, while struggling teams are looking to accumulate draft picks for future rebuilding efforts.
The current environment echoes a historic trade made 36 years ago on this weekend: the Dallas Cowboys’ deal with the Minnesota Vikings for Herschel Walker. That complex transaction, involving 12 draft picks and 18 players, ultimately provided the foundation for the Cowboys’ dynasty of the 1990s.
While a trade of that magnitude is unlikely, general managers are actively engaged in discussions, evaluating available players, and preparing for further moves before the deadline.
