As the 2026 NFL season reaches Week 9, attention is shifting toward the midseason trade deadline. Insiders Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano have gathered the latest reporting on team movements, player buzz, and strategic decisions ahead of the Tuesday deadline. The conversation is dominated by the Baltimore Ravens' sudden quarterback crisis and the ongoing struggles of the Los Angeles Chargers.
The Ravens, currently at 4-4, have lost both Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley to injuries involving a thumb and a toe, respectively. Undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano is expected to start Thursday night against Jacksonville. While the team is not expected to fold, sources indicate they are open to acquiring a new signal caller. Jacoby Brissett, who worked with Ravens quarterbacks coach Isaiah Woolfork last season, is a potential target if the Cardinals decide to move on from him.
Other options include Bears backup Tyson Bagent, who has familiarity with offensive coordinator Declan Doyle, and Colts quarterback Daniel Jones. Fowler notes that Jones could be acquired at a low cost due to his current struggles and contract structure, which includes a tradable base salary and delayed guarantees. However, the long-term future of Lamar Jackson remains a complex issue for Baltimore.
Jackson's 2027 cap hit of $84 million presents a significant hurdle for the Ravens. His contract includes no-franchise tag and no-trade clauses, giving him substantial leverage as he approaches unrestricted free agency. If no extension is reached by March 2028, Jackson could choose his next team. Fowler suggests that while the "last dance" narrative is premature, the team must begin evaluating a future without him, especially given his recent injury history.
In Los Angeles, the 0-7 Chargers are dealing with questions surrounding starter Justin Herbert. League evaluators note that Herbert appears hesitant and is struggling to process the defense. An AFC executive described him as uncomfortable in the offense, suggesting a schematic mismatch with coach Mike McDaniel's system. While coaches argue that the offensive line and skill position players are failing around him, the lack of progress during the Week 7 bye has raised eyebrows.
There is currently no strong indication that the Chargers will enter teardown mode before the deadline. However, players such as edge rusher Khalil Mack and wide receiver Quentin Johnston may be on the move if the right offer emerges. The team's reluctance to make significant changes has surprised some observers who expected more drastic adjustments after their poor start.
The Indianapolis Colts are firmly in the seller's market, particularly regarding running back Jonathan Taylor. Although Taylor is only 27 and not in the final year of his contract, the Colts are seeking substantial draft capital. Executives believe he is worth a second-round pick plus an additional selection, though Indianapolis may hold out for a first-round equivalent. The New York Giants are cited as a potential suitor, though they are also looking for defensive line help.
Other Colts players drawing interest include wide receivers Josh Downs and Keenan Allen, as well as defensive tackle Grover Stewart. The Giants have inquired about Stewart and other interior linemen, having been denied in their pursuit of Jeffery Simmons from Tennessee. Meanwhile, the New York Jets, despite a 2-6 record, appear content to compete rather than sell, projecting three top-10 draft picks next year. They are unlikely to trade running back Breece Hall unless a major offer materializes.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are positioned as aggressive buyers, seeking defensive line reinforcements. They remain interested in players like Vita Vea and are monitoring the situation with Brian Thomas Jr., whose value is being assessed by teams like the Chiefs and Steelers. For Baltimore, the possibility of trading running back Derrick Henry is emerging as a contingency plan if they fall to 4-5. Henry's low base salary and approaching age 33 make him an attractive, low-risk option for other teams looking for a short-term boost.
