As the NFL trade deadline approaches on November 10, teams are assessing whether to bolster their rosters for a playoff push or reset for the draft. Recent moves involving stars like Quenton Nelson, DeForest Buckner, and Jeffrey Simmons suggest further activity is expected in the coming days. Analysts have outlined one realistic and one ambitious trade scenario for each team currently in the playoff picture.
In the AFC, the Buffalo Bills could address their secondary. Their defensive line has performed well, but they allow the fifth most completions of 20+ yards. A realistic move would be acquiring Tennessee Titans safety Amani Hooker to complement Cole Bishop. A more ambitious target is Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates, who offers different skills and is in the final year of his contract.
The Denver Broncos might stand pat, but could look to strengthen their offense. A pipe dream trade involves acquiring Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor to increase explosive plays. A more realistic option is Philadelphia Eagles tight end Dallas Goedert, who would provide a reliable target and blocking presence for a group that has struggled this season.
The Pittsburgh Steelers, despite leading the AFC North, need a receiver with separation skills. Their passing game struggles against man coverage. A fantasy trade would be for Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs, who excels in those situations. A realistic option is Washington Commanders cornerback Amik Robertson, who offers speed and urgency to the secondary.
The Jacksonville Jaguars require interior defensive help after the injury to Davon Hamilton. A major target is New England Patriots defensive tackle Christian Barmore, whose pressure rate would be the best on the team. If unavailable, Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Zach Sieler offers a cheaper alternative with solid production.
The Kansas City Chiefs need a true wideout after Tyreek Hill's departure and Tyquan Thornton's injury. A pipe dream move is for New York Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson. A realistic option is Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr., who provides a vertical threat and size that quarterback Patrick Mahomes can utilize.
The Cincinnati Bengals have a strong offense but need defensive upgrades. A fantasy trade is for Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley to fix pass coverage gaps. A realistic move is Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Riq Woolen, who could allow Dax Hill to play his best position at nickel.
The New England Patriots need speed on the pass rush. A big target is Pittsburgh Steelers edge rusher Alex Highsmith, who offers explosive playmaking. A more accessible option is New York Jets edge rusher Will McDonald IV, who could provide variety to the defensive line.
In the NFC, the San Francisco 49ers face issues in the receiving room. A fantasy trade again points to Josh Downs. A realistic option is Tennessee Titans wide receiver Calvin Ridley, who could provide a boost to a struggling group.
