As the NFL trade deadline approaches, rumors are swirling across the league with some major names potentially changing teams before the season reaches its final stretch. The usual suspects—teams in win-now mode looking to add veteran talent—are actively engaging in trade talks, and there are several high-profile players who could be on the move in the coming weeks.
Among the names being tossed around are two defensive stars: Khalil Mack, the pass-rushing powerhouse for the Los Angeles Chargers, and DeAndre Hopkins, the electrifying wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals. But those aren’t the only big-name players on the market. As teams look to strengthen their rosters for a playoff push or future success, here’s a look at the top 5 players who could change teams before the deadline!
1. Khalil Mack – Los Angeles Chargers (Edge Rusher)
One of the biggest names generating trade buzz is Khalil Mack, the former All-Pro edge rusher for the Los Angeles Chargers. Mack, who has been a dominant force in the NFL for nearly a decade, has experienced somewhat of a resurgence since joining the Chargers in 2022. He’s still an explosive rusher off the edge, capable of disrupting quarterbacks and impacting games from the defensive line.
However, with the Chargers’ roster in a bit of flux and the team’s defense continuing to struggle with consistency, Mack’s future in Los Angeles is uncertain. At 33 years old, Mack is approaching the tail end of his career, but he still has plenty to offer a contending team looking to shore up its pass rush.
Possible Landing Spots:
- Dallas Cowboys: With DeMarcus Lawrence and Micah Parsons, the Cowboys have one of the most dynamic pass-rushing duos in the NFL, but adding a veteran like Mack could elevate their defensive line even further. With the Cowboys in Super Bowl contention, a move for Mack would solidify their already fearsome front seven.
- Buffalo Bills: Buffalo’s defense has long been known for its ability to rush the passer, and the addition of Mack could push them over the top in their quest for a Super Bowl. Pairing him with Von Miller would give the Bills one of the most intimidating edge-rushing tandems in the NFL.
2. DeAndre Hopkins – Arizona Cardinals (Wide Receiver)
Another player frequently mentioned in trade rumors is DeAndre Hopkins. The former All-Pro receiver for the Arizona Cardinals has made it clear he wants to play for a contender, and given the rebuilding status of the Cardinals, a trade before the deadline seems inevitable. Hopkins, who has been one of the most consistent and dynamic receivers in the league for nearly a decade, still has plenty of juice left in the tank at age 31. His ability to make contested catches, stretch the field, and be a go-to target in clutch situations makes him a prime target for teams with playoff aspirations.
With Arizona seemingly in full rebuild mode after moving on from head coach Kliff Kingsbury and embarking on a youth-focused direction, Hopkins would be a prime trade piece to garner draft capital and assets that can help the team in the future.
Possible Landing Spots:
- Kansas City Chiefs: The Kansas City Chiefs have one of the most potent offenses in the NFL, but adding a proven veteran like Hopkins would take them to another level. With Patrick Mahomes at the helm and Travis Kelce already a top target, Hopkins would be the perfect complement to give the Chiefs a dynamic one-two punch in the passing game.
- Buffalo Bills: The Bills have long been rumored to be in the market for a true No. 1 receiver to complement Stefon Diggs. Hopkins fits that bill perfectly, and adding him to Josh Allen’s arsenal would make Buffalo’s offense even more dangerous.
3. Derrick Henry – Tennessee Titans (Running Back)
While Derrick Henry hasn’t been in trade discussions as much as some other names, the speculation surrounding the Titans’ star running back continues to grow. At 30 years old, Henry is still one of the most feared players in the league, capable of carrying an offense on his back. However, with the Tennessee Titans entering a rebuilding phase, it’s unclear whether they will be willing to pay Henry his hefty salary while he’s in the final years of his prime.
With several teams needing a bruising back who can control the clock and break tackles, Henry could find himself on the move, especially as teams make their final pushes for the playoffs.
Possible Landing Spots:
- Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins have a high-flying passing attack with Tua Tagovailoa, Tyreek Hill, and Jaylen Waddle, but their running game has been inconsistent. Henry could be the perfect addition to complement their explosive offense, providing a physical presence in the backfield.
- Buffalo Bills: The Bills are another team that could use a more dynamic run game, and adding a player of Henry’s caliber would give them the balanced attack they need to make a Super Bowl run.
4. Kenny Moore II – Indianapolis Colts (Cornerback)
As the Indianapolis Colts continue to rebuild, Kenny Moore II, their standout cornerback, has found his name frequently appearing in trade rumors. A two-time Pro Bowler, Moore has established himself as one of the top slot corners in the league. With his versatility and ability to cover the best receivers in the league, Moore is a coveted asset for any team looking to bolster their secondary.
The Colts have been active in exploring trade options for Moore, and with several teams in need of a shutdown corner, Moore could be the piece that puts a contending team over the top.
Possible Landing Spots:
- Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins are always looking to improve their defense, and Moore could be the perfect addition to a secondary that already features Xavien Howard. Adding Moore would solidify their cornerback group and give them the tools to handle the top-tier receivers in the AFC East.
- Cleveland Browns: With a strong defense already in place, adding Moore would provide the Browns with another playmaking corner to complement Denzel Ward. Cleveland’s defense could go from good to great with Moore in the fold.
5. Chase Young – Washington Commanders (Edge Rusher)
After being drafted with the second overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Chase Young looked poised to become one of the top edge rushers in the league. However, injuries have hindered his development over the past few years. Despite this, Young’s potential remains undeniable. A physically gifted pass rusher who can disrupt games at will, Young has generated trade buzz as the Washington Commanders consider moving him for future assets.
At just 24 years old, Young is still a high-ceiling player who could be a difference-maker for a team looking to bolster its pass rush. Washington may look to trade Young while his value is still high, and several teams are reportedly in the market for a young, talented edge rusher.
Possible Landing Spots:
- Kansas City Chiefs: The Chiefs could add to their pass rush by trading for Young. Pairing him with Chris Jones would give Kansas City one of the most dynamic duos in the NFL, and help them compete in the AFC.
- Cleveland Browns: The Browns could also be a landing spot for Young, as they’re always in need of more pass-rush depth. Adding Young to their defensive line alongside Myles Garrett would make Cleveland’s pass rush one of the scariest in the league.
Conclusion: The Trade Deadline Frenzy Is Just Beginning
With the NFL trade deadline fast approaching, several high-profile players, including Khalil Mack, DeAndre Hopkins, Derrick Henry, Kenny Moore II, and Chase Young, are at the center of trade rumors. As teams jockey for playoff positioning and long-term success, these players could provide the perfect upgrade for teams looking to make a run at the Super Bowl or solidify their future.
Whether it’s adding a powerful rusher like Henry, a dynamic receiver like Hopkins, or a disruptive pass rusher like Mack or Young, these moves could reshape the NFL landscape. As the deadline nears, expect more rumors, more speculation, and perhaps even some shocking trades that could alter the course of the 2025 NFL season.
