The regular season is just around the corner, and with the preseason entering its final stretch, teams are making last adjustments to be ready for Week 1. Before trimming rosters down to 53 players, three teams are exploring the trade market for running backs.
Here’s why the Kansas City Chiefs, Cleveland Browns, and New Orleans Saints are looking to add depth at the position, and which realistic trade targets could emerge as options.
3 Running Backs Possible Available On the Trade Market
The preseason is crucial for teams to sort out roster spots and finalize the group that will carry them through the year. It’s not unusual for players once viewed as key pieces to become available via trade, whether due to contract issues or the emergence of younger talent.
Dianna Russini has reported that multiple teams, including the Chiefs, Browns, and Saints, are exploring the running back market. Other franchises, such as the San Francisco 49ers, could also be in the mix, as they are dealing with several injuries and need to strengthen their depth before the season kicks off.
Sources: Teams making calls in search of running back additions include the Saints, Browns and Chiefs.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) August 21, 2025
While blockbuster trades right before Week 1 are rare, we’ve highlighted three running backs who could realistically be on the radar for teams in need.
Brian Robinson, Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders are exploring trade options for running back Brian Robinson, who is entering his fourth season. Robinson has been a steady contributor throughout his career, posting more than 700 rushing yards in each of his three seasons so far. His best year came in 2023, when he totaled 1,101 yards from scrimmage and nine touchdowns.
Brian Robinson Jr. goes 39 yards for the TD!
📺: #TENvsWAS on CBS/Paramount+
📱: https://t.co/waVpO8ZBqG pic.twitter.com/JND4tTb6ka— NFL (@NFL) December 1, 2024
Robinson brings a physical running style paired with the ability to contribute in the passing game. This skill set could be particularly valuable for a team like the Saints, who use Alvin Kamara in a similar role.
He would also make sense for the Cleveland Browns, who are still working through the situation with Quinshon Judkins. With Nick Chubb’s departure leaving a hole in the backfield, adding Robinson could help stabilize their running game.
Jaleel McLaughlin, Denver Broncos
The Broncos have built a deep running back room, adding rookie RJ Harvey and J.K. Dobbins this offseason to complement Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime. Carries are expected to be split mainly between Harvey and Dobbins, leaving fewer opportunities for the others.
McLaughlin is elusive and capable of contributing in the passing game. He is coming off the 2024 season, in which he played all 16 games, starting five, and finished with 572 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns. He could be a strong fit for a team like the Chiefs, who need that elusive profile in their committee.
Rhamondre Stevenson, New England Patriots
The New England Patriots appear to have struck gold with TreVeyon Henderson, who is expected to become the lead running back in the rotation, leaving few carries for Stevenson throughout the year. Entering his fifth season, Stevenson has shown solid production in the NFL, but his fumbling issues have limited his role on the team.
A new team could be exactly what he needs to get back on track in his career. With Antonio Gibson serving as an option, the Patriots could trade Stevenson to a team willing to take on his current contract, which averages $9 million annually.
