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NFL Trade Deadline Looms: Key Players to Watch, Teams in Need

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The NFL's trade deadline is nearing, and several key players may be on the move, as teams look to bolster their rosters ahead of the second half of the season. With many contenders sporting obvious flaws, the lines are blurred between buyers, observers, and sellers. Trades have become an integral part of roster construction, and this season's deadline promises to be no exception.

The Falcons' Kirk Cousins may be a trade candidate, given his underwhelming performance as a fill-in starter and the difficulty of dividing his remaining salary. The Giants have been mentioned as a potential suitor, with second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy set to return to the starting role. Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, the Giants' veteran backup quarterbacks, may also be on the move, given the team's new starter.

Meanwhile, pass rushers are in high demand, with several prominent players, including Trey Hendrickson, Maxx Crosby, and Myles Garrett, potentially available. Contenders will need to look to the next tier of pass rushers, such as Arden Key, Jermaine Johnson, and Jaelan Phillips, if they're unable to secure a top-tier player.

Running back Alvin Kamara may also be on the move, given his productivity and desire to spend his entire career with the Saints. However, it's unlikely to happen, given his commitment to the team. The Jets may be willing to trade running back Breece Hall, who's on pace for a 1,235-yard season, and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle may also be available, given the Dolphins' disappointing season.

The Buffalo Bills, Denver Broncos, and Pittsburgh Steelers have been mentioned as teams in the market for wide receivers, although the Steelers just signed Marquez Valdes-Scantling. Tight end David Njoku of the Browns could also be a difference maker for a team looking to match the production of other contenders.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Falcons' Kirk Cousins may be a trade candidate, given his underwhelming performance as a fill-in starter.
  • The Giants have been mentioned as a potential suitor for Cousins.
  • Several prominent pass rushers, including Trey Hendrickson, Maxx Crosby, and Myles Garrett, may be available for trade.
  • Contenders will need to look to the next tier of pass rushers, such as Arden Key, Jermaine Johnson, and Jaelan Phillips, if they're unable to secure a top-tier player.
  • Running back Alvin Kamara may also be on the move, given his productivity and desire to spend his entire career with the Saints.
  • The Jets may be willing to trade running back Breece Hall, who's on pace for a 1,235-yard season.
  • Wide receiver Jaylen Waddle may also be available, given the Dolphins' disappointing season.
  • The Buffalo Bills, Denver Broncos, and Pittsburgh Steelers have been mentioned as teams in the market for wide receivers.

Statistics:

  • The Falcons have a 3-5 record, with a -49 point differential.
  • The Giants have a 3-5 record, with a -13 point differential.
  • The Jets have a 1-7 record, with a -122 point differential.
  • The Dolphins have a 3-5 record, with a -24 point differential.
  • Pass rusher Trey Hendrickson has 3.5 sacks this season.
  • Pass rusher Maxx Crosby has 4.5 sacks this season.
  • Pass rusher Myles Garrett has 6.5 sacks this season.
  • Running back Breece Hall is on pace for a 1,235-yard season.
  • Wide receiver Jaylen Waddle has 32 receptions for 444 yards this season.

Sources:

  • [ESPN]
  • [NFL.com]
  • [Associated Press]
  • [Yahoo! Sports]
  • [Pro Football Talk]

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