NFL training camps are underway around the league, marking the countdown to the 2025 season. Training camp also opens the door for key roster moves. While many teams arrive with nearly set depth charts, injuries, contract disputes, and unexpected performances can quickly alter priorities and spark trade talks.
Teams with surpluses at a given position may be willing to entertain trades as the new year approaches, while others may be searching for solutions to their contract situations.
Which players could be on the move? Here are 10 potential trades that could make sense in the coming weeks.
Lions-Bengals Trade
Trey Hendrickson Gives the Lions a Fierce Pass-Rush Duo
- Lions receive: EDGE Trey Hendrickson
- Bengals receive: 2026 2nd-round pick, 2026 5th-round pick
The Detroit Lions boasted an elite defense (5th in PFSN’s Defense+ metric) for much of last season despite playing without Aidan Hutchinson, who suffered a season-ending leg injury.
However, they faltered late, failing to register a sack or a takeaway in their playoff loss. Detroit’s non-blitz pressure rate in that game was a season low, highlighting how much they missed Hutchinson’s disruptive presence.
With Hutchinson now cleared for activities but returning from a significant setback, the Lions need a proven pass rusher to avoid a repeat scenario. Trey Hendrickson stands out as a premier edge rusher after ranking first in sacks (17.5) last season, per Pro Football Reference. He also finished sixth in pressure rate among all players with at least 200 pass-rush snaps, earning his first All-Pro selection.
Over the past four years, Hendrickson has notched 57 sacks, third-most in the NFL, demonstrating consistent elite production. Although the Cincinnati Bengals would like to keep him, their investments in Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins push them toward a financial crossroads, especially with Hendrickson holding out for a new contract.
Financially, the Lions are among the few contenders positioned to absorb Hendrickson’s current deal, with $51.3 million in 2025 cap space, according to Spotrac. His acquisition would remedy Detroit’s lack of proven edge options behind Hutchinson, particularly given Marcus Davenport’s injury issues and Josh Paschal’s limited production. Levi Onwuzurike’s torn ACL also hurts the defensive line depth.
Trading a second and fifth-round pick balances value for both teams. Detroit strengthens its push for a Super Bowl, while Cincinnati gains draft capital and much-needed financial flexibility.
Chargers-Commanders Trade
Terry McLaurin Completes the Chargers’ Offense
- Chargers receive: WR Terry McLaurin
- Commanders receive: WR Quentin Johnston, 2026 2nd-round pick, 2026 4th-round pick
Jim Harbaugh’s arrival brought the Los Angeles Chargers a certain level of grit and discipline that didn’t exist when Brandon Staley was the head coach. In his first season, he helped Los Angeles to 11 wins and a playoff berth. Yet, after a postseason loss in which Justin Herbert threw four interceptions and completed just 43.8 percent of his passes, the need for a more dynamic passing attack became clear.
Apart from rookie Ladd McConkey (2024) and Keenan Allen (2023), no other Chargers wide receivers have topped 1,000 yards in the last three years. The front office added Tre Harris, KeAndre Lambert-Smith, and Oronde Gadsen II through the draft, but they’re unproven at the NFL level. Veteran Mike Williams’ retirement was also unexpected.
JAYDEN DANIELS TO TERRY MCLAURIN NO WAYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!
86 YARDS! pic.twitter.com/T3ITuxRk0c
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 24, 2024
Acquiring Washington Commanders star Terry McLaurin would immediately lift this offense. In 2024, McLaurin delivered 82 receptions, 1,096 yards, and 13 touchdowns, averaging 13.4 yards per catch, ranking ninth among all receivers in PFSN’s WR+ metric. His ability to stretch the field (13.4 aDOT) and secure contested catches makes him a perfect complement to McConkey and a much-needed weapon for Herbert.
Quentin Johnston has disappointed up to this point, considering how high he was drafted. However, the talent is still there; perhaps, he could thrive playing with Jayden Daniels in Washington.
With young draft picks unlikely to be instant difference-makers, swinging a trade for a proven WR1 like McLaurin gives the Chargers a legitimate chance to build on last year’s surprise success and improve their standing in a loaded AFC.
Saints-Falcons Trade
Saints Land Kirk Cousins in Rare Intra-Division Deal
- Saints receive: QB Kirk Cousins, 2026 7th-round pick
- Falcons receive: 2026 4th-round pick, $10 million cash considerations
This deal is likely the most outlandish of the bunch, considering the Atlanta Falcons and New Orleans Saints are in the same division. However, this appears to be the most logical destination heading into training camp, especially given Kirk Cousins’ desire to be a starting quarterback in 2025.
With Derek Carr retired, the Saints enter training camp with a quarterback room featuring zero proven NFL starters. Their soon-to-be-26-year-old second-round pick, Tyler Shough, is the frontrunner but has yet to take a snap in a regular-season game. Spencer Rattler has just six NFL starts, and Jake Haener has only one. This inexperience raises significant concerns for Kellen Moore’s debut campaign as head coach.
Kirk Cousins stands out as an immediate solution after posting 288 career touchdown passes and making four Pro Bowls in 159 starts, vastly outpacing the Saints’ three young quarterbacks combined. Cousins’ professional track record and ability to stabilize a huddle of veteran playmakers could bridge the gap while Shough develops, without blocking the rookie’s future opportunities.
The Michael Penix Jr. era is underway, and should Cousins become available, New Orleans would have to inquire at least. The roster isn’t devoid of talent, and the intrigue of facing his former Falcons team twice a year could be appealing for Cousins.
49ers-Raiders Trade
Jauan Jennings Bolsters the Raiders’ Offense
- Raiders receive: WR Jauan Jennings
- 49ers receive: 2026 3rd-round pick, WR Tre Tucker
The Las Vegas Raiders, now led by Pete Carroll and new quarterback Geno Smith, have bolstered most of their offensive positions but still need a proven perimeter receiver to complement Jakobi Meyers and second-year tight end Brock Bowers. Jauan Jennings showcased his potential in 2024, recording 77 catches, 975 yards, and six touchdowns.
Jennings’ physical style and blocking are well-suited to the Raiders’ offense, which will likely emphasize the ground attack after drafting Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty.
Las Vegas is positioned to trade for Jennings thanks to its $48.6 million cap space, which easily absorbs his projected salary and allows room for an extension. A package of a third-round pick and a promising but inconsistent receiver like Tre Tucker feels right for Jennings, considering he’s coming off a strong campaign but hasn’t proven he’s a WR1.
The 49ers would miss Jennings, but their belief in Ricky Pearsall and the offseason addition of Demarcus Robinson could support the case for a deal.
For Jennings, Las Vegas offers a straightforward opportunity to compete for a lead receiver role. The Raiders’ ground-heavy offense and Carroll’s preference for physical receivers mean Jennings could be a focal point, giving Geno Smith a proven, versatile option alongside Meyers and Bowers.
This move would allow rookie receivers Jack Bech and Dont’e Thornton Jr. to develop without the pressure of taking on too much too soon — Jennings’ big-game experience and scheme fit make him an attractive target in the Raiders’ rebuild.
Bears-Jaguars Trade
Bears Land Another Weapon for Ben Johnson in Travis Etienne Jr.
- Bears receive: RB Travis Etienne Jr.
- Jaguars receive: 2026 3rd-round pick
The Chicago Bears have prioritized building around Caleb Williams, revamping their offensive line with the additions of Drew Dalman, Joe Thuney, and Jonah Jackson to boost protection and run-blocking. Chicago’s rushing offense struggled in 2024, ranking among the league’s worst with just 4.0 yards per carry, a 42.6% conversion rate on third-down rushes, and only 2.51 yards after contact per carry.
Adding a high-upside running back could be the missing piece to ease pressure on Williams and maximize the new line’s potential. While D’Andre Swift remains a capable starter, partnering with Travis Etienne Jr. would create one of the NFL’s more dynamic backfields.
Etienne, just 26, posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons to start his career and caught 58 passes in 2023, highlighting his versatility. Even in a down 2024, he logged 558 rushing yards, 254 receiving yards, and started 15 games, showing he can contribute in multiple phases. His presence would immediately raise the ceiling for a Bears unit already on the rise with Ben Johnson taking over.
RELATED: Jaguars’ Former First-Round Pick Predicted Among Cut Candidates for 2025 NFL Season
Etienne’s role in Jacksonville has diminished as he split carries with Tank Bigsby and enters the final year of his rookie deal, making him a realistic trade target. His efficiency dipped to a career-low 3.7 yards per carry, and he is set to earn $6.1 million in 2025, which could prompt the Jaguars to seek a deal before losing him to free agency.
With his past production and the Bears’ connections, most notably former Jaguars offensive coordinator Press Taylor, now on staff, a trade for Etienne would align with Chicago’s push to support their young quarterback and contend in 2025.
Patriots-Falcons Trade
Patriots Continue to Build Around Drake Maye with Kyle Pitts
- Patriots receive: TE Kyle Pitts
- Falcons receive: 2026 3rd-round pick, TE Austin Hooper
The Atlanta Falcons appear more open to moving Kyle Pitts after a disappointing 2024 season, so the New England Patriots could come knocking if he’s made available. Once a top-5 draft pick and Pro Bowler, Pitts posted a career low 602 receiving yards last year with just four touchdowns over 17 games.
Under a new coaching staff, Pitts played fewer than 50 snaps per game for the first time in his career. With Atlanta needing to prepare for an expensive Drake London extension, Pitts’ declining usage and upcoming free agency make him a logical trade candidate.
For New England, acquiring Pitts addresses a clear need. The Patriots have a league-high $60 million in cap space and lack an explosive pass-catching tight end to complement Hunter Henry. Pitts, who’s still only 24 and boasts elite measurables, would fit perfectly in Josh McDaniels’ two-tight-end formations and offer potential as a dynamic target for second-year quarterback Drake Maye.
Despite recent struggles, Pitts’ rookie season showed immense upside when he tallied 1,026 yards at 15.1 yards per catch, but he hasn’t reached those heights since.
A swap involving tight end Austin Hooper and a 2026 third-round pick would give Atlanta depth and a valuable Day 2 selection, while allowing New England to take a low-risk chance on Pitts’ potential breakout in a contract year. The Patriots gain a high-upside target to nurture Maye’s development, and if Pitts fails to thrive, they can part ways in 2026 with minimal long-term impact.
Steelers-Packers Trade
Romeo Doubs Reunites with Aaron Rodgers in Pittsburgh
- Steelers receive: WR Romeo Doubs
- Packers receive: 2026 3rd-round pick
The Green Bay Packers have a notably crowded wide receiver room, and they spent early picks on Matthew Golden and Savion Williams in the 2025 NFL Draft. Even after Christian Watson’s ACL injury, Green Bay’s investment in new talent, combined with the development of Jayden Reed and Dontayvion Wicks, puts Romeo Doubs’ roster spot in jeopardy as he enters the final year of his rookie contract.
Doubs’ value is clear. The 25-year-old has recorded 46 receptions for 601 yards and four touchdowns in just 13 games in 2024, after notching 59 catches for 674 yards and eight touchdowns the previous season. He averaged 13.1 yards per catch with a 63.9% catch rate last year.
Doubs’ 600-plus receiving yards in each of the last two seasons outpace current Pittsburgh Steelers No. 2 options like Robert Woods and Calvin Austin III. The Steelers, following the trade of George Pickens, have a glaring need for another wide receiver opposite DK Metcalf.
With Doubs’ production, youth, and manageable $3.5 million cap hit, he could be a logical target given Pittsburgh’s $32.2 million in cap space. His familiarity with Aaron Rodgers could provide added chemistry for a revamped offense.
Given Doubs’ expiring contract and recent concussion issues, a third-round pick feels like solid compensation for both teams.
Titans-Giants Trade
Kayvon Thibodeaux Adds Pass-Rushing Juice to Titans Defense
- Titans receive: EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux
- Giants receive: 2026 2nd-round pick, 2027 4th-round pick
After drafting Abdul Carter third overall and trading for Brian Burns last offseason, the New York Giants now have a surplus of high-end edge rushers. That duo and Dexter Lawrence in the middle give New York a formidable front.
Working on a big edge rusher project and the most improved NFL edge in 2024 was Kayvon Thibodeaux. Much more precise with his hands and his long-arm was more effective. Really like him as a #3 who can win with power and speed pic.twitter.com/6qs1vNC6vl
— James Foster (@NoFlagsFilm) May 13, 2025
The group’s overall talent has raised doubts about Kayvon Thibodeaux’s role. The team would struggle to justify paying three premium defenders on the edge, especially with Thibodeaux needing a new contract after 2025 or 2026. While the Giants publicly deny trade talks, roster construction and coming extension considerations make a move possible.
Thibodeaux remains a valuable asset, having produced 21.0 sacks and 127 tackles in 43 career games and breaking out with 11.5 sacks in 2023. However, a wrist injury last season limited him to 12 games and six sacks, halting his momentum.
For the Giants, trading Thibodeaux would clear a $9.97 million cap hit in 2025 and $14.75 million in 2026, allowing them to gain the necessary draft capital as they reshape their roster.
Acquiring Thibodeaux would be a significant move for the Titans to bolster their pass rush for the Cam Ward era. Tennessee’s current group lacks a proven edge threat of Thibodeaux’s caliber, especially after parting ways with Harold Landry III. It’s hard to get excited about an Arden Key and Dre’Mont Jones tandem.
Trading picks for Thibodeaux and signing him to a new contract would give the Titans a young, ascending edge rusher to lead their defense, shoring up an area of weakness and supporting a potentially explosive offense.
Dolphins-Bears Trade
Cole Kmet Replenishes Tight End Depth for Dolphins
- Dolphins receive: TE Cole Kmet
- Bears receive:Â 2026 3rd-round pick
The Chicago Bears overhauled their offense this offseason, spending big on offensive line help in free agency and using the 10th overall pick on tight end Colston Loveland, a prospect highly regarded for his receiving skills from Michigan’s pro-style attack.
Chicago’s addition of receiver Luther Burden III to a relatively deep group of pass catchers could signal a shift toward more three-receiver sets, potentially reducing Cole Kmet’s role even though new head coach Ben Johnson used multi-tight end formations frequently in Detroit.
Kmet started all 17 games last season but finished with just 47 receptions for 474 yards and four touchdowns. With Loveland poised to command a significant target share, Kmet, still just 26, could slide further down the pecking order and become a tradable asset given he has three years of team control remaining.
The Miami Dolphins, meanwhile, are thin at tight end after trading Jonnu Smith. They acquired Darren Waller, who has unretired, but even though he was once one of the league’s top tight ends, he carries plenty of uncertainty heading into 2025.
Acquiring a reliable veteran like Kmet, who converted 25 first downs last year, would instantly solidify the position and provide Miami’s offense with a proven option who remains in his prime and under contract through 2027. Meanwhile, Chicago still recoups value.
Patriots-49ers Trade
49ers Reunite with Kendrick Bourne Amid Jennings Rumors
- 49ers receive: WR Kendrick Bourne
- Patriots receive:Â 2026 6th-round pick
After trading All-Pro receiver Deebo Samuel and with Brandon Aiyuk recovering from a significant knee injury, the San Francisco 49ers’ depth at wide receiver is a concern. Jauan Jennings also won’t be happy if he doesn’t get a new deal.
Veteran Kendrick Bourne, who began his NFL career in San Francisco, is a reasonable trade target given his familiarity with head coach Kyle Shanahan’s system and ability to contribute if needed immediately.
Bourne’s future with the Patriots is uncertain, as he totaled just 28 catches for 305 yards and one touchdown over 12 games in 2024 after recovering from a torn ACL suffered midway through the 2023 season. The depth chart was already crowded with DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, Ja’Lynn Polk, and Javon Baker.
With the Patriots adding Stefon Diggs, Mack Hollins, and Kyle Williams this offseason, Bourne’s opportunities in New England could be limited, especially as he approaches his age-30 season.
Financially, Bourne is under contract through 2026, but none of his remaining salary is guaranteed. His 2025 cap hit is around $7.7 million, a manageable figure for a team seeking veteran help.
Considering his prior production and the 49ers’ need for a proven presence behind Jennings (if he stays put) and Pearsall, moving for Bourne during training camp makes sense if Aiyuk is slow to recover.
