The NFL trade deadline is heating up ahead of Week 8, with several premier players already on the move. The Indianapolis Colts sent All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks for a 2027 third-round pick and a 2028 fifth-rounder while dealing defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers for a 2027 fourth-round selection. Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears acquired star defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons on Thursday in exchange for first-and fourth-round picks in 2027 and another first-rounder in 2028.
With several blockbuster deals already shaking up the NFL landscape, more moves could be on the horizon.
Five Names to Watch Ahead of the NFL Trade Deadline
Khalil Mack, EDGE, Los Angeles Chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers are 0-6, and Kahlil Mack returned for the 2026 season with championship aspirations. With retirement looming, a trade to a contender could give the veteran pass rusher one final opportunity to compete for a Super Bowl. Mack remains productive, recording three sacks, five tackles for loss (TFL) and 16 pressures through six games. His 75.2 Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade ranks 23rd among edge rushers, proving he can still make an impact. Pass-rush-needy contenders should explore the Chargers’ asking price for the eight-time Pro Bowler.
Possible destinations: Detroit Lions, Buffalo Bills, Bears
Josh Sweat, EDGE, Arizona Cardinals
Sweat is off to a slow start in Arizona after being heavily involved in trade discussions this past offseason. Following a 2025 campaign in which he recorded 12 sacks and 13 tackles for loss, Sweat has managed just two sacks and three tackles for loss in 2026. Despite remaining competitive, the Cardinals are still far from contending in the NFC, making it worth exploring Sweat’s trade value. Under contract through 2028, Sweat offers potential suitors long-term control, though his age and declining production could raise concerns. Ultimately, Arizona’s asking price will determine how much interest the veteran pass rusher generates.
Possible destinations: Green Bay Packers, Dallas Cowboys, Carolina Panthers
Dallas Goedert, TE, Philadelphia Eagles
Philadelphia’s fall from grace has been staggering. After winning the Super Bowl following the 2024 season, the Eagles have battled injuries and now face uncertainty surrounding quarterback Jalen Hurts. His season-ending blood clot diagnosis and the team’s handling of the situation have drawn significant attention. Sitting at 2-5 with Tanner McKee under center, Philadelphia should consider moving veteran talent, with Dallas Goedert among its most valuable trade assets.
Goedert is playing on a one-year deal after the Eagles opted against a long-term extension this offseason. Now healthy, the ninth-year tight end could provide an immediate boost to a contender’s passing attack. Through five appearances, including an injury-shortened Week 2 outing, Goedert has recorded 22 receptions for 228 yards and two touchdowns. His 80.0 PFF grade ranks second among tight ends this season. Whether acquired as a rental or paired with an extension, Goedert should draw significant interest ahead of the trade deadline.
Possible destinations: Panthers, Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals
Zach Sieler, IDL, Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins underwent a major roster overhaul last season, parting ways with Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Tua Tagovailoa and Minkah Fitzpatrick. Hill and Tagovailoa were released, while Fitzpatrick was dealt for a late Day 3 draft pick, leaving Waddle as the only player to return significant trade value. Miami should continue its roster reset by exploring the market for defensive tackle Zach Sieler.
Sieler signed a multiyear extension in 2025, offering potential suitors several years of team control. His trade value may be lower than in recent seasons amid Miami’s defensive struggles and his slow start to 2026. After recording consecutive 10-sack campaigns in 2023 and 2024, Sieler finished with 5.5 sacks in 2025 and has managed just two sacks and six tackles for loss this season. Contenders looking to strengthen their interior pass rush and bolster their run defense should inquire about Miami’s asking price.
Possible destinations: Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Rams, Panthers
Erik McCoy, C, New Orleans Saints
McCoy is enjoying one of his healthiest seasons in recent years and has performed at a high level in 2026. His 72.6 PFF grade ranks fifth among centers, while his 81.8 pass-blocking grade leads the position. However, his injury history and age remain concerns for potential suitors. Sitting at 2-5 and last in the NFC South, New Orleans should consider capitalizing on McCoy’s strong start to acquire additional draft capital. With limited veteran assets and a roster still far from contention, moving McCoy while his value is high could yield a significant return.
Possible destinations: Packers, Bengals, Minnesota Vikings
The Last Word
The NFL trade deadline always brings plenty of speculation and surprises, but these five players should be prime trade candidates for their respective front offices. With general managers showing increased aggression in 2026, expect more bold moves as the November deadline approaches. Trade season is officially underway, and the biggest deals may still be ahead.
Main Image: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
