NFL Trades Heating Up: What to Expect Before the Deadline?
The NFL season is in full swing, and with it, the excitement of trades. This week, three teams made significant moves, with the Browns sending Joe Flacco to the Bengals, marking the beginning of what is expected to be a period of frenetic activity before the November 4 trade deadline.
In a league where constant improvement is key, general managers are already exploring potential deals. Sources suggest we could see at least a dozen more trades in the coming weeks.
In the last six years, during the month of October prior to the deadline, the NFL has recorded 88 trades, averaging almost 15 per year.Potential Players in the Market
Executives and coaches believe that several high-profile players could be available in the coming weeks. Among them are names like Kirk Cousins, Russell Wilson, Trey Hendrickson, Mark Andrews, Bradley Chubb, Alvin Kamara, Chris Olave, Breece Hall, Cameron Jordan, and Riq Woolen. Although their teams have not yet officially put them on the market, the possibility of a trade is real.
Last year and in 2022, 18 exchanges were completed. This figure contrasts with the nine exchanges in 2018, the eight in 2017, the five in 2016, and the four in 2015.The Dynamics of Exchanges in the NFL
The NFL trade deadline has become as active as those of the NBA and MLB. The increasing activity is due to several factors, including the presence of younger and more aggressive general managers.
Previously, many managers did not believe in trading players mid-season. However, the recent success of teams that have made acquisitions before the deadline has changed the perspective.
In 2021, the Rams acquired Von Miller, who helped the team win Super Bowl LVI. A year later, the Chiefs got Kadarius Toney, who contributed to the Super Bowl victory with a key play.
Teams have noticed the positive impact a mid-season acquisition can have, and others are looking to emulate the success of the Rams and Chiefs.
This week, three of the four AFC North teams (Baltimore, Cincinnati, and Cleveland) made trades. The Steelers, who lead the division, are also considering improving their roster.
Winning teams seek to strengthen their rosters to ensure a more prolonged participation in the playoffs, while those who are not successful seek to rebuild and accumulate draft picks.
Coincidentally, Sunday marks the 36th anniversary of the Herschel Walker trade by the Cowboys to the Vikings, a deal that involved multiple draft picks and players, and that helped Dallas build its dynasty in the 90s.
Although it is difficult to imagine such a significant exchange today, general managers are already working hard, exploring the available options and ready to make their next moves.
