The NFL trade deadline is approaching, and this year’s market may be the busiest in recent memory. With teams adjusting midseason, the Indianapolis Colts have already shifted into seller mode, while the Chicago Bears made a splash by acquiring defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons in a trade with the Tennessee Titans.
Colts Shift Into Seller Mode
The Colts’ rebuild accelerated after firing general manager Chris Ballard, leading to early moves like sending guard Quenton Nelson to the Seahawks and tackle DeForest Buckner to the 49ers. Wide receiver Josh Downs also requested a trade, fueling speculation of a broader “fire sale.” But they may be pausing before making further deals.
According to insider Jordan Schultz, they are waiting to see how their Week 9 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys plays out before finalizing any trades. The decision could hinge on whether their offense—already improved with Downs—can sustain a playoff push. Running back Jonathan Taylor, a potential trade chip, remains in play, but no move is imminent.
The Cowboys, meanwhile, sit at 3-5 in the NFC East, just one game behind the Giants for second place. Their recent overtime loss to the Cardinals might suggest a seller mentality, but their standing complicates that outlook. Insiders say they’re unlikely to move George Pickens, despite his free-agent status next year. Instead, Dallas could focus on defense.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano note that the Cowboys may target Arizona’s Josh Sweat, a pass rusher who could help address their defensive struggles. Sweat, however, may demand contract adjustments, given his $76 million deal and early desire for a restructure. With the Cowboys already stocking their roster through free agency and the draft, another trade would require careful calculation.
Bears Bolster Defensive Line
The Bears, fresh off their Simmons acquisition, saw immediate results in their Week 8 win over Seattle. With Simmons on the field, the Seahawks managed just 3.0 yards per play and three sacks, while Seattle’s offense stuttered when he was off. Yet the Bears’ defensive line may still need reinforcement.
Insider Seth Walder suggests they could pursue Josh Uche from the Dolphins. Given the Bears’ recent investment in Simmons, any further moves would likely target value over premium talent.
In Pittsburgh, rumors of a wide receiver addition for Aaron Rodgers have persisted, but insider Gerry Dulac dismissed them as unlikely. The Steelers already strengthened their WR room with DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., and draft picks Germie Bernard and Kaden Wetjen. While desperation could still drive a trade, Dulac’s assessment suggests patience over panic.
Wide Receiver Trade Rumors
The Jaguars’ recent social media post, featuring players like Trevor Lawrence but omitting Brian Thomas Jr., has sparked speculation about the first-round pick’s availability. Teams like the Chiefs and 49ers, both dealing with WR injuries, could show interest. Thomas, however, has yet to meet expectations in Jacksonville, leaving his trade value uncertain.
As the trade deadline approaches, teams are weighing their options carefully. The Cowboys, despite their recent loss, are still in contention for a playoff spot, and their decision to keep George Pickens suggests they are looking to make a push. The Bears, on the other hand, have already made a significant addition to their defensive line with Jeffery Simmons, and are now looking to add more depth with players like Josh Uche.