As Week 8 of the NFL season unfolds, the looming trade deadline on November 4 adds a layer of intrigue to the league. This marks the second year with an early November deadline that grants teams an additional week to assess their playoff potential before making roster decisions. Last season saw nineteen players change teams ahead of the deadline, and the market has already been buzzing in 2025. The most significant trade so far involved the Dallas Cowboys sending star pass rusher Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers just before Week 1. As teams prepare for the upcoming deadline, we analyze which clubs may be buyers, sellers, or choosing to stand pat.
The Arizona Cardinals are struggling, having lost five consecutive games and holding a 2-5 record. They share the second-worst record in the NFC with the New York Giants, trailing only the one-win New Orleans Saints. Despite having chances in each game, the Cardinals find themselves in a false hope situation. The central question for the organization revolves around quarterback Kyler Murray, who is sidelined with a foot injury. With Jacoby Brissett stepping in, fans have begun to favor him over Murray. Given the circumstances, any decisions on roster improvements should be postponed until the team clarifies its stance on Murray's future.
The Atlanta Falcons had the opportunity to consider being buyers if they had secured a win against the San Francisco 49ers. However, with a history of inconsistency and the recent injury to wide receiver Darnell Mooney, they should refrain from making any trades. The Falcons already lost their first-round pick for 2026 in a prior trade, emphasizing the need to preserve future assets for now.
Despite their 1-5 record, the Baltimore Ravens believe they can still make a playoff push. General manager Eric DeCosta has a reputation for being proactive in trades. After sending edge rusher Odafe Oweh to the Los Angeles Chargers, the Ravens created significant salary-cap space. However, if they lose their next two games, they could quickly shift into sell mode. Currently, they are in the market for an edge rusher, interior defensive lineman, and possibly a quality offensive lineman.
The Buffalo Bills are in search of impactful players to enhance their roster. They could be interested in acquiring wide receivers like Chris Olave or Jakobi Meyers to support quarterback Josh Allen. The Bills are also seeking secondary help, particularly at safety, as they currently navigate a tight salary cap situation. With only $2.8 million available, their options might be limited unless they can restructure contracts.
Riding a three-game winning streak, the Carolina Panthers are feeling optimistic. However, general manager Dan Morgan is unlikely to trade valuable draft capital for a team that isn't a Super Bowl contender. With a challenging schedule ahead, including a matchup against the Bills, the Panthers might consider adding a veteran edge rusher if they can do so without sacrificing significant future assets.
The Chicago Bears are experiencing a four-game winning streak, raising hopes for the future. General manager Ryan Poles should focus on maintaining their current draft capital and continue building toward long-term success rather than making impulsive trades that could jeopardize their direction.
The Cincinnati Bengals have made their notable move by acquiring Joe Flacco, injecting life into their season as they await the potential return of Joe Burrow. However, they are not in a position to give up any more assets, as their defense requires development rather than a quick fix.
With a focus on the future, the Cleveland Browns are open to trading players in contract years. Although they won't aggressively shop their best players, they are likely to listen to offers for defensive end Alex Wright, tight end David Njoku, and running back Jerome Ford. Teams seeking pass-rush help should keep an eye on the Browns’ available assets.
With quarterback Dak Prescott playing at an MVP level, the Dallas Cowboys are poised for a strong offensive season. However, their defense remains a concern, prompting the need for additional help. Following the trade of Micah Parsons, the Cowboys have the capital to make significant moves to bolster their defensive lineup.
In need of depth on the offensive line due to injuries, the Denver Broncos are actively searching for reinforcements. While they might not pursue a high-cost trade like Joel Bitonio from the Browns, they should explore other options to solidify their offensive line and consider adding playmakers to enhance their offensive efficiency.
With a 5-2 record heading into their Week 8 bye, the Detroit Lions are in a strong position. They should seek to acquire depth, particularly in the secondary, to ensure they can maintain their competitive edge and avoid repeating past postseason failures.
After acquiring Micah Parsons, the Green Bay Packers have already made their significant move for the season. With limited resources due to prior trades, they are unlikely to make additional trades, opting instead to rely on returning players to fill existing gaps.
The Houston Texans should actively pursue trades to secure a quality guard, as their offensive line remains a pressing need. Improving their run game will be crucial for their future success.
General manager Chris Ballard may need to break from his conservative approach this season. With a potent offense, the Indianapolis Colts should seek help on defense, particularly for pass rush and cornerback positions, to maximize their playoff potential.
The Jacksonville Jaguars appear to be in a rebuilding phase and should hold onto their assets unless they find low-cost opportunities to enhance their team culture. With previous trades depleting their draft picks, they should focus on development rather than short-term gains.
The Kansas City Chiefs have a history of making impactful trades, and they are expected to pursue defensive line upgrades as they aim to strengthen their already competitive roster.
At 2-5, the Las Vegas Raiders are not in a strong position and should consider trading players like Jakobi Meyers, while keeping key players like Maxx Crosby unless they receive a substantial offer. A reevaluation of their roster is necessary as they look to rebuild.
After acquiring Odafe Oweh, the Los Angeles Chargers still have needs to address, particularly at offensive tackle and running back due to injuries. Their options may be restricted due to salary cap constraints, but they should remain proactive in the trade market.
With a solid start to the season, the Los Angeles Rams may look to strengthen their roster further. While they want to preserve draft picks for future needs, they could pursue key additions to maximize their current window of opportunity.
Despite coach Mike McDaniel expressing frustration over trade speculation, the Miami Dolphins should consider selling off high-priced veterans. With a lackluster season unfolding, securing future draft capital could be a prudent strategy.
Given their substantial investment in the current roster and the leadership of coach Kevin O’Connell, the Minnesota Vikings are unlikely to make significant trades this season. They should focus on developing their young talent while evaluating their current players.
Surprisingly, the New England Patriots find themselves atop the AFC East and may look to bolster their roster as they aim for a playoff run. With the easiest schedule ahead, they should actively pursue edge rusher help.
With a disappointing start to the season, the New Orleans Saints may look to sell veteran players such as Alvin Kamara and Demario Davis. Although they have historically valued player loyalty, making trades for assets could be beneficial given their current trajectory.
Despite the recent loss to the Broncos, the New York Giants remain competitive and should avoid making hasty trades. They need to evaluate their prospects before deciding on any potential moves.
At 0-7, the New York Jets are in a prime position to shed players who don't fit into their long-term plans. With several candidates available, including running back Breece Hall and defensive players, they should explore trade opportunities to build for the future.
As Super Bowl contenders, the Philadelphia Eagles are likely to be active buyers at the trade deadline. They are expected to seek upgrades at edge rusher and cornerback, leveraging their draft capital to make impactful trades.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are riding a strong start, prompting general manager Omar Khan to search for a wide receiver to enhance their offensive capabilities. With aspirations for a playoff run, they are expected to explore trades to strengthen their roster.
Despite suggestions to trade for help, the San Francisco 49ers are likely to remain steadfast with their current roster. They may prioritize maintaining team chemistry and focus on their existing players as they aim for continued success.
With a solid 5-2 record, the Seattle Seahawks should actively pursue depth additions to their roster, especially with injury concerns. They have the resources to make moves that could enhance their playoff chances.
Unless a standout pass rusher becomes available, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers should hold their position. With returning players expected from injuries, they may be better served to utilize future draft picks rather than risking them in trades.
As significant sellers, the Tennessee Titans are open to trading away veterans to rebuild their roster. While they want to keep some talent, they should consider offers that could help them in the long run.
The Washington Commanders are likely to stay the course as they evaluate their current assets and future direction. They should avoid impulsive trades and focus on developing their roster.
