Complete NFL Offseason Trade Guide for Every NFL Team
January 29, 2024Complete NFL Offseason Trade Guide for Every NFL Team
With the matchup for Super Bowl LVIII set, most NFL franchises are already in full offseason mode.
Scouting events will begin en masse in January, leading up to the NFL Scouting Combine in late February. The legal tampering window and free agency follow in mid-March, and the 2024 NFL draft is in late April.
Teams will use those tentpole events to try to fix whatever ailed them in 2023.
We spent all season chronicling each team's biggest weaknesses on a weekly basis. This offseason, B/R's Alex Ballentine (AFC) and Kris Knox (NFC) will provide updated analysis for all of the ways each team can improve ahead of the 2024 campaign.
Free agency activity and the draft will dominate the offseason, but trades will be a big part of the equation, too. We've seen several blockbuster deals over the past two offseasons, including those involving Russell Wilson, Tyreek Hill, Aaron Rodgers and the No. 1 overall draft selection.
This week, we'll examine each team's top trade candidates and trade targets based on team needs, salary cap projections and potential cut candidates.
Arizona Cardinals
Cap Space: $45.2 Million
Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Defensive Line, Wide Receiver
Top Trade Assets: S Budda Baker, OT D.J. Humphries, Fourth Overall Pick
The Arizona Cardinals appear poised to build around quarterback Kyler Murray for the foreseeable future. Even with a fair amount of cap space, the Cardinals could look to trade off a few pieces to achieve that goal.
Safety Budda Baker is one of the better players on Arizona's defense. He's also entering the final year of his contract and would likely bring a sizable return from a team closer to title contention.
Trading offensive tackle D.J. Humphries would be more about creating cap space, though, to a tackle-needy team, he'd have some value. Trading Humphries would save $9 million in cap space. The Cardinals could also look to move down in April's draft, something they did a year ago, netting the Houston Texans' 2024 first-rounder in the process.
Top Trade Targets: DE Josh Sweat, CB Carlton Davis, WR Keenan Allen
With a defense that ranked 29th in yards per carry allowed and 30th in net yards per pass attempt allowed, Arizona could use help all along the defensive line. Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Josh Sweat would be a sensible trade target, as he can set the edge, rush the passer and has experience under head coach Jonathan Gannon.
Sweat is entering the final year of his contract, as is Tampa Bay Buccaneers corner Carlton Davis. The Bucs aren't facing a dire cap situation, but with an extension for Baker Mayfield looking likely, they could try to generate some space.
The Los Angeles Chargers are facing a cap dilemma and could be willing to move off of 31-year-old wideout Keenan Allen.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 third-round pick, WR Rondale Moore for WR Keenan Allen
Trading Allen would save Los Angeles $23.1 million in cap space. Given his age (32 in April) and contract, Allen probably won't bring a premium return. Arizona might be able to pry him away for a Day 2 selection and 23-year-old receiver Rondale Moore.
Moore has one year left on his rookie deal and hasn't quite emerged as a consistent piece of the passing puzzle. While Allen may be aging, he's still one of the most prolific wideouts in the league when healthy.
Allen had 108 receptions for 1,243 yards and seven touchdowns in 13 games this past season. He'd give Murray the sort of No. 1 receiver he used to have in DeAndre Hopkins and, perhaps, could help the quarterback return to Pro Bowl form.
Atlanta Falcons
Cap Space: $29.9 Million
Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, EDGE, Wide Receiver
Top Trade Assets: QB Desmond Ridder, TE Jonnu Smith, S Richie Grant
The Atlanta Falcons will have a new head coach in 2024, which means the view of quarterback Desmond Ridder could change. However, Ridder hasn't shown enough through two seasons to suggest he's Atlanta's quarterback of the future.
If the Falcons are ready to move on, Ridder could be offered to a team willing to take a flier on the 2022 third-round pick.
Tight end Jonnu Smith and safety Richie Grant are both entering the final year of their contracts. Atlanta may find it difficult to retain both Smith and tight end Kyle Pitts long-term, and trading Grant would save $1.8 million in cap space. Therefore, both would be reasonable trade chips this offseason.
Top Trade Targets: QB Justin Fields, EDGE Khalil Mack, Top-Three Draft Pick
Regardless of who becomes Atlanta's next coach, the team needs to settle the quarterback position. If the Chicago Bears are willing to move off of Justin Fields—they hold the No. 1 pick and could go with a rookie QB instead—Fields would be an enticing target for Atlanta.
Fields' dual-threat ability would make him dangerous in an Atlanta offense loaded with playmakers at the skill positions. Alternatively, the Falcons could trade up to the top of the draft for a premier QB prospect like Caleb Williams or Drake Maye.
Defensively, the Falcons could desperately use a high-end pass-rusher. Calais Campbell and Bud Dupree both led the team with 6.5 sacks apiece and both are impending free agents.
Given the Chargers' cap situation, Atlanta should consider a play for Khalil Mack.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 second-round pick, 2025 third-round pick for Justin Fields.
We'd love to see what Fields could do with Pitts, Drake London, Tyler Allgeier and Bijan Robinson at his disposal. Given Fields' contract status—he has two years remaining on his rookie contract, including the fifth-year option—a pair of Day 2 picks might make that happen.
Atlanta may end up with two 2024 second-rounders if Calvin Ridley signs an extension with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
A lot would depend on how Atlanta's next coach views Fields, but as trade targets go, the 24-year-old would make far more sense for the Falcons than, say, Russell Wilson.
This hypothetical trade would allow Atlanta to keep its eighth overall pick in 2024. That could be used to get a high-end No. 2 receiver to pair with London. The Falcons probably wouldn't have a shot at Ohio State's Marvin Harrison Jr., but LSU's Malik Nabers or Washington's Rome Odunze could be within range.
Baltimore Ravens
Cap Space: $5.7 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Wide Receiver, Interior Defender, Offensive Tackle
Top Trade Assets: WR Rashod Bateman, OT Morgan Moses, EDGE Tyus Bowser
The Ravens sufficiently proved this season that they should be in win-now mode. Therefore, they are more likely to be selling draft picks to bring in missing pieces of the puzzle than trading established players. However, all three of these players could be replaceable and clear up some cap room.
Bateman has been disappointing as a former first-round pick. Even in Todd Monken's opened-up offense, he was sixth on the team in receiving yards. His draft pedigree could make him interesting to teams looking for young receiver talent.
Morgan Moses has put together a strong season, but the Ravens should be looking to get younger at the position. Teams desperate to upgrade at tackle might be willing to part with a valuable draft pick and the Ravens would clear $5.5 million. A Tyus Bowser trade would create the same savings.
Top Trade Targets: WR Tyler Lockett, EDGE Brian Burns, DT DeForest Buckner
With Bateman reaching official bust status and Odell Beckham headed toward free agency, it would make sense for the Ravens to look at a veteran receiver. Zay Flowers is an electric option, but they need a receiver outside of Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely to pair with Flowers. Tyler Lockett is 31 years old, and the Seahawks just drafted Jaxon Smith-Njigba. They would save $8 million by trading him before June 1 or $18 million after.
The Colts overachieved in Shane Steichen's first year as head coach but are still building around Anthony Richardson. Trading away with soon-to-be 30-year-old DeForest Buckner would create $20.2 million in cap space. For the Ravens, it would be a logical replacement for Justin Madubuike if he walks in free agency.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 first-round pick, 2025 third-round pick and EDGE David Ojabo for EDGE Brian Burns
The Carolina Panthers declined all overtures from other teams to trade Brian Burns. Adam Schefter of ESPN reported that five teams reached out to the Panthers ahead of the trade deadline, but the Panthers weren't willing to deal their young pass-rusher.
Burns is now set to be a free agent, but a tag-and-trade scenario isn't dead. There have been a few instances of it happening, including deals that moved featured pass rushers in Yannick Ngankou, Jadeveon Clowney, Frank Clark and Dee Ford.
Defensive coordinator Mike MacDonald was able to create one of the best defenses in the league with Kyle Van Noy and Jadeveon Clowney on the edge. Giving him a premier talent like Burns would be a lot of fun to watch unfold as long as you aren't an NFL quarterback or offensive coordinator.
Buffalo Bills
Cap Space: -$51.1 million
Biggest Positions of Need: EDGE, Cornerback, Safety
Top Trade Assets: EDGE Von Miller, WR Stefon Diggs, C Mitch Morse
The Bills have a lot of work to do just to get under the salary cap for the 2024 season, and the Super Bowl window with their current core might be closing. Of course, Josh Allen's presence means that they'll still be a factor in the AFC for a long time, but it's worth considering shedding some of their veteran contracts to try and get younger.
Trading away either Von Miller or Stefon Diggs would require a post-June 1 date. For Miller, a pre-June 1 trade saves just $2 million whereas a later deal would save $17.4 million in 2024. For Diggs, it would create no cap savings until after June 1 when it would clear up $19 million. Both are on the wrong side of 30 with waning production.
Mitch Morse is still a solid center, but trading him would clear up $8.5 million and there are cheaper alternatives.
Top Trade Targets: Day 2 Draft Picks, EDGE Azeez Ojulari, S Richie Grant
General manager Brandon Beane has already warned the fanbase that the Bills won't be shopping at the luxury stores comes free agency time. There are real cap restrictions that they will have to navigate this offseason. That means targeting draft picks or players who are still on rookie deals are the ideal.
Both Azeez Ojulari and Richie Grant are in the final year of their rookie contracts with their respective franchises. Both would address needs with cap hits of less than $3 million. Ojulari flashed potential with eight sacks as a rookie but only has eight more over the last two seasons. Richie Grant has started 32 games for the Falcons over the past two seasons and would be an inexpensive replacement for Micah Hyde.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 fourth-round pick (No. 128 overall) for EDGE Azeez Ojulari
It's a good thing the Bills already have Brian Daboll's phone number, because it would be worth it to give him a call about Ojulari. The Bills could potentially lose Leonard Floyd, A.J. Epenesa and Shaq Lawson from the edge. They need to find cost-effective ways to replace all those snaps and hopefully get production.
Ojulari has struggled to stay on the field and develop beyond his promising rookie campaign in New York. Perhaps the rebuilding Giants would be willing to move on from him for a pick now rather than waiting around to see if he'll do something for them this season.
Carolina Panthers
Cap Space: $31 Million
Biggest Positions of Need: Wide Receiver, EDGE, Tight End
Top Trade Assets: EDGE Brian Burns, WR Terrace Marshall Jr., C Bradley Bozeman
Pass-rusher Brian Burns is set to be a free agent in March, but a tag-and-trade would greatly benefit the Carolina Panthers. The Panthers don't have a first-round pick thanks to their trade to acquire Bryce Young, and moving Burns might help deliver one.
According to Schefter, the Los Angeles Rams offered a pair of first-round picks for Burns in 2022, but the offer was rejected.
Carolina will likely look to deal wideout Terrace Marshall Jr., who was granted permission to seek a trade ahead of the 2023 deadline. Marshall was a second-round pick in 2021 but hasn't lived up to his draft status in Carolina. If another franchise is willing to take a flier on him, the Panthers will likely deal.
Bradley Bozeman is a starting-caliber center, but the Panthers desperately need to overhaul their offensive line. With arguably the weakest roster in the NFL, Carolina lacks quality trade assets. Bozeman is one of the few players who could net something of value as part of the rebuild.
Top Trade Targets: WR Tyler Lockett, WR Mike Williams, First-Round Draft Pick
The Panthers desperately need to find Young some receiver help. Outside of Adam Thielen, Carolina had almost no dependable pass-catchers this past year. DJ Chark Jr. was the only other player to top 500 receiving yards, and he finished with 525.
Trading for a proven receiver would make plenty of sense for the Panthers. The Seattle Seahawks have an unfavorable projected cap situation, so it would behoove Carolina to inquire about Tyler Lockett. The Chargers are also staring down cap issues, so Keenan Allen and Mike Williams could both potentially be available.
Williams is recovering from a torn ACL but is the younger of the two Chargers receivers and would make the most sense for the rebuilding Panthers. Acquiring a first-round pick in order to land a pass-catcher would also be a logical move.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: EDGE Brian Burns for 2024 first-round pick, 2025 third-round pick and EDGE David Ojabo
Ballentine's proposed tag-and-trade with Baltimore would actually be a tremendous deal for both teams. The Ravens would get a more proven pass-rusher than Devid Ojabo, while Carolina would refill its draft cache.
And the Panthers do need pass-rushing help, so taking a flier on Ojabo would be sensible as well.
A late first-round pick wouldn't net the Panthers one of the draft's top wide receivers, but the 2024 class is expected to be deep at the position. The Panthers could potentially double-up on wideouts like Oregon's Troy Franklin and Washington's Ja'Lynn Polk at the bottom of Round 1 and with their own 33rd overall selection.
Chicago Bears
Cap Space: $50.2 Million
Biggest Positions of Need: Wide Receiver, Cornerback, Center
Top Trade Assets: No. 1 Overall Pick, QB Justin Fields, S Eddie Jackson
The Chicago Bears are in a very intriguing position heading into the new league year. They're facing a big decision on whether to stick with quarterback Justin Fields or use the No. 1 overall pick—obtained from the Carolina Panthers in last year's trade to No. 1—on a QB prospect like Caleb Williams or Drake Maye.
Theoretically, Chicago could use the No. 1 pick and keep Fields—Ohio State wideout Marvin Harrison Jr. is talented enough to justify the move. However, it seems unlikely that the Bears would go that route. If the team sticks with Fields, the return for the top pick could be just too great to ignore.
Outside of those two premium trade chips, the Bears could look to move veteran safety Eddie Jackson. The 30-year-old is a veteran leader for Chicago's defense, but he's entering the final year of his contract. Trading him would generate another $12.6 million in cap space.
Top Trade Targets: WR Tyler Lockett, WR Amari Cooper, CB Donte Jackson
Regardless of who is under center for Chicago in 2024, the Bears could use another wideout to complement D.J. Moore—Darnell Mooney and Equanimeous St. Brown are scheduled to hit the market.
With Shande Waldron in as offensive coordinator, dealing for Seattle's Tyler Lockett would be a logical move. Lockett is a proven No. 2 receiver who already understands Waldron's schemes and concepts. Amari Cooper is another viable trade target if the Cleveland Browns are desperate to save cap space.
Cooper tallied 1,250 receiving yards in 15 games this past season despite playing with four different quarterbacks. He'd be a boon for any young quarterback's development.
Even if Chicago manages to re-sign standout corner Jaylon Johnson, it could use secondary help. Carolina's Donte Jackson is entering the final year of his contract, and the Panthers could be interested in recouping some of the draft capital they sent to the Bears to obtain Bryce Young.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 first-round pick (first overall) for Raiders 2024 first-round pick (13th overall), 2024 second-round pick, 2025 first-round pick, 2026 second-round pick, WR Jakobi Meyers, TE Michael Mayer
It's always fun to see chaos in the draft, and this hypothetical deal would create plenty. Chicago would keep Fields and land a package very similar to what it received from Carolina last season. The Bears would move a bit further down the board, but with the ninth and 13th picks, Chicago could still address two major needs.
Instead of landing a No. 1 receiver like Moore in this deal, Chicago would land a quality No. 2 in Jakobi Meyers plus promising tight end and 2023 second-round pick Michael Mayer.
This deal would potentially give Fields a tremendous receiver tandem (Moore and Meyers) and a talented tight end duo (Mayer and Cole Kmet).
Cincinnati Bengals
Cap Space: $61.4 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Interior Defender, Offensive Tackle, Wide Receiver
Top Trade Assets: WR Tee Higgins, CB Mike Hilton, 18th Overall Pick
How the Bengals handle the Tee Higgins situation is easily the most intriguing question of their offseason. Kelsey Conway of the Cincinnati Enquirer reported all the way back in September that the two sides were "not close and never got close on a contract extension" before also reporting that he, "is not believed to be in the Bengals' future plans."
Things can change, but a tag-and-trade could also be an option. The Bengals have a Ja'Marr Chase extension to consider, and teams should be willing to part with a first-rounder to get Higgins.
Hilton is a veteran defensive back who could help a lot of teams. It also helps that the Bengals would clear $6.5 million in cap space by trading him away. There aren't many other viable trade candidates, but the Bengals could pull off a win-now move and trade away their first-round pick if there's a veteran available who can put them over the top.
Top Trade Targets: Draft Picks, DT DeForest Buckner, OT Chukwuma Okorafor
The Bengals are in an interesting salary cap position. At first glance, they have a lot of cap space. But then you consider that they have a lot of future money wrapped up in Joe Burrow with a Chase extension coming down the pike, and it's clear the Bengals need to be wise with how they spend their money.
That's why it should still be on the table for the Bengals to target draft picks if they are looking to make any trades. They have done a great job of drafting and developing, especially on defense, so it would make sense to continue building the roster that way.
If they do want to go the veteran route, then DeForest Buckner would be a logical target. The Colts would save $20.3 million against the cap by trading him, and he would be a significant piece for the Bengals defensive line. Chukwuma Okorafor has had his struggles in Pittsburgh, but he's an experienced right tackle who could be a stop-gap if Jonah Williams does not return.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 second-round pick (No. 49 overall), 2025 fifth-round pick for DT DeForest Buckner
The Bengals really struggled to stop the run this season, and they didn't get much pass-rush support from their interior defenders other than the 4.5 sacks from B.J. Hill. Trading for Buckner would give them a legitimate star in the middle of the defense. He only has one year left on his contract with the Colts and it has minimal guarantees, so he could easily be extended in a way that fits into their salary cap picture over the next three years.
From the Colts perspective, it's flipping a veteran player who could leave in a year for valuable draft picks and increased cap flexibility they could use to extend Michael Pittman Jr. this offseason.
Cleveland Browns
Cap Space: -$20.5 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Wide Receiver, Interior Defensive Line, Edge-Rusher
Top Trade Assets: WR Amari Cooper, RB Nick Chubb, OT Jack Conklin
The Browns have the least valuable amount of draft capital in the 2024 draft, per Tankathon. They only draft twice in the first 100 picks and aren't on the clock until the 54th pick. That's not great news for a team that is going to have a tight cap situation. They'll create room through restructures, extensions and cuts, but it's nice to be able to utilize picks to fill needs cheaply. That could necessitate some trades to get draft picks.
Amari Cooper and Nick Chubb would provide a lot of cap relief while potentially bringing back a valuable pick. Wide receiver is a need, but dealing Cooper would free up $12.6 million. Chubb is going to be coming off of two knee surgeries to repair the damage he suffered in Week 2. Trading the 28-year-old would net $11.8 million in cap space.
Jack Conklin would only save money if they trade him after June, but Dawand Jones looked ready to replace him at right tackle this season. Teams are always desperate for tackle help, and a draft pick might be worth more to the Browns than Conklin, so Jones can take the starting role.
Top Trade Targets: WR Brandin Cooks, WR Jerry Jeudy, Draft Picks
Amari Cooper has been the Browns' best receiver, but cap constraints also make him an interesting trade candidate. That would obviously mean the Browns have more work to do to surround Deshaun Watson with some weapons who can help him get back to being a Pro Bowl-caliber quarterback. There's more on Brandin Cooks below, but Jerry Jeudy is also an interesting target.
Jeudy is only 25 and entering the final year of his rookie contract. Mike Klis of 9News in Denver reported the Broncos are expected to either move on from him or Courtland Sutton.
The other option is obviously to save some cap space by trading away an established veteran or two and re-stock their draft war chest.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 fifth-round pick (No. 134 overall), 2025 fifth-round pick for WR Brandin Cooks
As Knox points out with the Cowboys, Brandin Cooks could be one of their top trade candidates. They would save $4 million against the cap by trading away the veteran, and they paid a minimal draft cost for him last offseason anyway.
Some of Cooks' best work in Houston came in 2020 when he had Deshaun Watson throwing him the football. Now the Browns are desperate to make sure that Watson proves to be worthy of the trade package and compensation they gave up for him. If reuniting the two would do the trick, it has to be a consideration.
Dallas Cowboys
Cap Space: -$11.1 Million
Biggest Positions of Need: Offensive Tackle, Center, Defensive Tackle
Top Trade Assets: WR Brandin Cooks, WR Michael Gallup, TE Luke Schoonmaker
The Dallas Cowboys need to generate cap space and could look to do so by dealing one of their secondary wide receivers. The Cowboys dealt Amari Cooper just two years ago to make room in the No. 1 role for CeeDee Lamb, and now, Lamb is extension-eligible.
Trading Brandin Cooks would save $4 million in cap space, while trading Michael Gallup after June 1 would save $9.5 million.
2023 second-round pick Luke Schoonmaker could become a valuable trade chip because of his draft status. With Jake Ferguson (761 yards, 5 TDs) emerging as an upper-tier receiving tight end in 2023, flipping Dallas' developmental tight end to help address other areas of need would be quite logical.
Top Trade Targets: OT James Hudson, DT Kenny Clark, First-Round Pick
Dallas will have a couple of big holes along the offensive line if offensive tackle Tyron Smith and center Tyler Biadasz depart in free agency. Dallas could also use an upgrade over Terence Steele at right tackle.
Based on Dallas' recent history of acquiring players via bargain trades, Browns offensive tackle James Hudson could be a prime target. Hudson was forced into action because of injuries this season and helped push Cleveland into the postseason. He's entering the final year of his rookie deal and probably wouldn't cost a ton to acquire.
The Cowboys may also consider trading up in Round 1 to secure an elite tackle prospect like Notre Dame's Joe Alt or Alabama's JC Latham.
Defensively, the Cowboys need to bolster their run defense. Targeting a proven defensive tackle like Kenny Clark would make plenty of sense if Dallas can create the cap space needed to pull it off.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: WR Michael Gallup, 2025 third-round pick for WR Treylon Burks
Gallup simply hasn't lived up to the five-year, $57.5 million contract he signed in 2022. Moving his contract in the summer would give Dallas some much-needed cap space to make a few late-offseason additions.
In this hypothetical scenario, the Cowboys would deal with the Tennessee Titans, a team that is short on receiver depth and long on cap space ($74 million). Tennessee has its new head coach in Brian Callahan, and the Bengals' former offensive coordinator may well bring in a free-agent receiver from Cincinnati, like Tee Higgins or Tyler Boyd.
However, Callahan should look to surround Will Levis with more veteran talent in order to boost his development. In this scenario, Dallas would pair Gallup with a future third-round pick to land Titans receiver Treylon Burks, who has struggled to live up to his draft status in Tennessee.
Burks has flashed some downfield ability, and swapping out a pricey veteran contract for a rookie deal would be a win for the Cowboys.
Denver Broncos
Cap Space: -$25.3 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, Cornerback, Edge-Rusher
Top Trade Assets: QB Russell Wilson, WR Jerry Jeudy, WR Courtland Sutton
The Broncos are going to have to tighten up the purse strings this offseason. They are already over the cap going into the offseason, and the expected move to cut Russell Wilson isn't going to do them any favors. If they could find a trade partner who would be willing to work with them to make it financially more feasible, that would be ideal.
The passing attack is bound to look different next season, as Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton are logical trade candidates as well. The Broncos do not have a bounty of draft picks, and their finances are such that cheap contracts are invaluable. Neither Jeudy nor Sutton are Sean Payton guys and could bring back decent draft picks. Trading Jeudy clears $13 million while trading Sutton saves $14 million.
Top Trade Targets: Draft Picks, CB Jaycee Horn, EDGE Azeez Ojulari
Jaycee Horn was picked just one slot ahead of Patrick Surtain II in the 2021 NFL draft. However, their careers have diverged drastically since then. Surtain has established himself as a premier talent while Horn has struggled with injuries and faces an uncertain future heading into the fourth year of his rookie contract.
The Broncos don't have the money to take on huge contracts in trades, so targeting struggling players on rookie contracts makes sense. Azeez Ojulari fits the description. He's had waning production over the past two years in New York, and they could be willing to take a cheap offer for him.
The primary goal should be bringing in more draft picks to address needs and improve their cap flexibility moving forward.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: WR Jerry Jeudy for CB Jaycee Horn, 2025 fourth-round pick
The Panthers need wide receiver help to get Bryce Young's career up and running. The Broncos need a second corner to complement Surtain on the other side. The Broncos would be saving precious cap space while addressing a need and adding to their draft pick war chest.
A 2025 pick isn't quite as ideal as one in the upcoming draft, but the Panthers don't have much to work with after their trade to move up and get Bryce Young last year.
Detroit Lions
Cap Space: $61.1 Million
Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, EDGE, Guard
Top Trade Assets: DT Levi Onwuzurike, S Tracy Walker III, First-Round Pick
The Detroit Lions are a young team, and as such, they don't have a ton of pricey veteran contracts to consider dumping. They could, however, consider moving safety Tracy Walker III, who will turn 30 next month.
Walker is the veteran leader of Detroit's secondary, but he saw a diminished role in 2023. Trading him would save $5.5 million in cap space.
Defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike is a viable trade candidate, as the 2021 second-round pick has become a mere role player in Detroit's talented defensive front. He missed all of 2022 with a back injury and played only 21 percent of the defensive snaps this past season. Onwuzurike's draft pedigree could make him attractive to teams seeking help on the defensive line.
While the Lions are unlikely to part with any of their core players, they may be willing to move off of their late first-round draft pick. Detroit doesn't have a ton of roster holes and could get aggressive in filling them.
Top Trade Targets: CB Charvarius Ward, EDGE Haason Reddick, First-Round Pick
Detroit's biggest deficiencies reside on defense. The secondary is still a merely average unit, and the Lions could use a premier pass-rusher to complement Aidan Hutchinson.
In an ideal scenario, Detroit would pull a premier player away from another NFC contender. San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward and Philadelphia Eagles pass-rusher Haason Reddick are both entering the final year of their contracts and would be tremendous additions to the Lions defense.
Detroit may also look to trade up in the first round to secure an elite defensive prospect like Penn State pass-rusher Chop Robinson or Alabama cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 first-round pick, 2024 second-round pick, 2024 third-round pick for Saints 2024 first-round pick (14th Overall)
While trading for a proven vet is certainly a viable option for Detroit, we'd love to see the Lions continue building out their roster with young players. Trading up in Round 1, while costly, could land an elite prospect like McKinstry—the only corner the Bleacher Report Scouting Department has assigned a first-round grade.
"His skills are undeniable and gives defensive coordinators the versatility to play multiple schemes," Cory Giddings of the B/R Scouting Department wrote.
Detroit could target the New Orleans Saints as a trade partner. The Saints are facing a horrendous cap situation and may need to fill out their roster with rookie contracts. This deal would give New Orleans more options while giving Detroit another young playmaker to partner with Hutchinson, Jack Campbell and Brian Branch.
The Lions have an extra third-round pick from the T. J. Hockenson trade, so this would leave Detroit with a Day 2 selection.
Green Bay Packers
Cap Space: $8 Million
Biggest Positions of Need: Offensive Tackle, Safety, Center
Top Trade Assets: OT David Bakhtiari, WR Christian Watson, DT Kenny Clark
The Packers made the divisional round with the youngest roster in the NFL. The Packers don't have many aging trade assets, but two do stand out.
Longtime left tackle David Bakhtiari will likely be released if he isn't dealt. He's 33 and knee issues have limited him to only 13 games over the past three seasons. Bakhtiari's market may be limited to Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets, but Green Bay would be foolish not to kick the tires on a deal.
Defensive tackle Kenny Clark, meanwhile, is a terrific player, but he is entering the final year of his contract. He'd likely bring a better return than Bakhtiari, and trading him after June 1 would save $21 million in cap space.
Receiver and 2022 second-round pick Christian Watson has fallen out of favor in the offense as other young pass-catchers like Jayden Reed and Dontayvion Wicks have risen. It's worth seeing if another team is willing to take a flier on Watson.
Top Trade Targets: S Budda Baker, OT Garett Bolles, C Mitch Morse
The Packers are set to build around Love for the foreseeable future. It would behoove them to upgrade the blocking unit in front of him. While trading for veteran linemen might only provide a temporary boost, players on expiring contracts, like Mitch Morse and Garett Bolles, might be available for a bargain price.
Green Bay could potentially lose safeties Jonathan Owens, Christian Uphoff and Darnell Savage in free agency this year. Dealing for Arizona safety Budda Baker, who is entering the final year of his contract, could help reload the secondary quickly.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 first-round pick (24th overall), 2024 second-round pick, 2024 third-round pick, 2025 second-round pick, OT David Bakhtiari for Jets' 2024 first-round pick (10th overall)
How much fun would it be to see the Packers trade the Jets' 2024 second-round pick back to them? That alone wouldn't push Green Bay into the top 10, but additional picks plus Rodgers' former favorite tackle might get it done.
We'd love to see Green Bay make a major move up in Round 1, because it could potentially yield an elite tackle prospect like Penn State's Olumuyiwa Fashanu or Notre Dame's Joe Alt.
For the Packers, the only thing better than having one of the league's hottest young quarterbacks would be having that plus an offensive-line anchor with elite upside. Moving up wouldn't be cheap, but it could inevitably help protect Love for the next decade-plus.
Houston Texans
Cap Space: $66.1 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Interior Defensive Line, EDGE
Top Trade Assets: WR Robert Woods, QB Davis Mills, RB Dameon Pierce
The Texans have a young and exciting core, and most of their veterans have contracts that would make it difficult to trade them. Robert Woods is an exception, as by moving him they would save some cap space and free up more snaps for a young receiving corps with a lot of potential.
With Case Keenum on the roster, the Texans have some leeway in whether they want to retain Davis Mills. He's only 25 and has 26 starts under his belt, so some teams could talk themselves into him being a high-ceiling backup. Dameon Pierce could be expendable after Devin Singletary's strong campaign and his disappointing second season.
Top Trade Targets: DT Aaron Donald, CB Paulson Adebo, S Kevin Byard
The Texans are in the perfect position to take a big swing on veteran acquisitions. They outperformed expectations this season, and if the retooling Rams are looking to get a return for 32-year-old Aaron Donald, the Texans are one of the teams that could oblige. They are a contender with an abundant amount of salary cap space.
Paulson Adebo is a rising star at cornerback, but the Saints routinely lose good players in free agency because of the way they manage the cap. Adebo is set to become a free agent in 2025. Trading him now could bring them a better return than what they will get in the compensatory pick formula.
The Eagles traded for Kevin Byard in the middle of the season, but it didn't prevent their late-season collapse. He could be an ideal running mate with Jalen Pitre.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 first-round pick (No. 23 overall via CLE), 2024 third-round pick (No. 86 overall via PHI), 2025 fourth-round pick for DT Aaron Donald
The odds of the Los Angeles Rams trading Donald when he has given no indication that he wants to leave are admittedly slim, but it makes sense on paper. The Rams shocked everyone by getting into the playoffs this season, but this still isn't a contender. Getting another first-round pick and a few others would help them continue to build through the draft.
The real fun begins when we think about what Aaron Donald could do to take this Texans defense to the next level. Assuming they can re-sign Jonathan Greenard, they would then be getting after quarterbacks with Greenard (12.5 sacks this season), an emerging Will Anderson Jr. and the best pass-rushing defensive tackle of all-time. Combine that with C.J. Stroud's offense, and the Texans are a real Super Bowl contender.
Indianapolis Colts
Cap Space: $66.4 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Safety, EDGE
Top Trade Assets: DT DeForest Buckner, No. 15 pick, TE Mo Alie-Cox
DeForest Buckner is one of the best players on the Colts defense, but they could save $20.5 million in cap space by trading away the soon-to-be 30-year-old as he enters the final year in his contract. That's a lot of money, and the free-agent defensive tackle class is pretty strong. The No. 15 pick could also be used if an opportunity comes along to trade for an impact vet.
Mo Alie-Cox was not a big part of the gameplan this season. He's more likely a cut candidate with no guaranteed money in 2024, but someone might be interested in adding the tight end.
Top Trade Targets: WR A.J. Brown, DT Levi Onwuzurike, EDGE Joey Bosa
The Colts defensive line is good, but it could use more depth on the interior and a true star edge-rusher. Buckner and Grover Stewart are a great tandem on the inside, but Stewart is a free agent and Buckner could be a trade candidate based on how much money they could save. Levi Onwuzurike is a talented, young defensive tackle whose role is limited by playing on a deep Detroit Lions defensive line. He would make their interior rotation better.
Joey Bosa has struggled with injuries the past two seasons, but he had 6.5 sacks in nine games this season. When he's on the field, he still has the gravitational pull the defensive line is missing right now. The Chargers could be willing to deal him based on their cap situation.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 first-round pick (No. 15 overall) for WR A.J. Brown
More than anything, the Colts have to do everything they can to help Anthony Richardson succeed in his second season. The clock starts ticking for a rookie quarterback to prove they are the franchise guy the minute they are drafted, and his second year will be crucial. That means giving him enough playmakers to really get the offense going.
Over in Philadelphia, the season ended miserably, and there was speculation about A.J. Brown's feelings toward the team, especially after he scrubbed his social media of all Eagles content.
The Colts have benefitted from giving up a first-round pick for a veteran before. That's how they got Buckner, and he has helped their defense a lot. The Colts have cap space to make another aggressive move, and Brown, Michael Pittman Jr. and Josh Downs would immediately become one of the most exciting receiver trios in the league.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Cap Space: $17.6 million
Biggest Positions of Need: EDGE, Interior Defender, Cornerback
Top Trade Assets: OT Cam Robinson, WR Zay Jones, LB Chad Muma
It isn't very often that a team is willing to trade a 28-year-old left tackle who has been a functional starter. However, it would make sense for the Jaguars to listen to offers if they materialize. Robinson was ranked 46th among the tackles graded by PFF this season, and the Jaguars have a potential replacement on the roster in Walker Little. They would save $16.1 million by trading him away.
Trading Zay Jones would save $4.4 million, which could help retain Calvin Ridley. He saw a reduced role this season, and Ridley is a higher priority pending free agent. Chad Muma only played 145 snaps this season but a team who was high on him in the 2022 draft might be wiling to give a Day 3 pick to acquire him.
Top Trade Targets: EDGE Joey Bosa, DT Jonathan Allen, EDGE Carl Granderson
The Jaguars edge-rusher group is bound to look different in 2024. Josh Allen is the big free agent, but K'Lavon Chaisson and Dawuane Smoot are set to hit the open market, too. Joey Bosa's recent injuries are concerning, but the Chargers should be willing to part with him as they try to clean up a tight cap situation, and he's still produced at a high level when healthy.
The cash-strapped Saints are always in a position where they have to clear some cap space. Trading Carl Granderson would provide some relief, and he has a history with new Jaguars defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen. He was previously the defensive line coach with the Saints before taking the defensive coordinator job with Atlanta last season.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 second-round pick (No. 48 overall), 2024 fourth-round pick (No. 114 overall) for DT Jonathan Allen
This is a deal that is about two teams at different stages. The Jaguars are closing out their era with Trevor Lawrence on a cheap rookie contract. Assuming they pick up his fifth-year option for 2025, his price tag is about to go way up. That gives the Jaguars two seasons to try and make a run while he's still cost-controlled.
Parting with two picks to acquire a game-changing interior defensive line would qualify. Allen has two years left on his contract, and the rebuilding Commanders would save $9.4 million while stocking up draft picks.
For the Jaguars, Allen would give them a true pass-rushing defensive tackle who could free up their outside rushers and help anchor a run defense that was middle of the road last season.
Kansas City Chiefs
Cap Space: $24.9 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Wide Receiver, Interior Defender, EDGE
Top Trade Assets: S Justin Reid, CB L'Jarius Sneed, DT Chris Jones
The Chiefs have some important decisions to make regarding two foundational pieces to their defense. Both L'Jarius Sneed and Chris Jones are set to hit free agency. Both would be difficult to replace, but both are also going to be expensive. One option they will have to consider is to tag and trade one of them. In 2019, they acquired Frank Clark in a tag-and-trade. Utilizing the tag on Sneed would cost $18.8 million, while Jones is projected at $32.2 million because of his cap hit in 2023.
If the Chiefs want to go the more traditional trade route and offload a veteran to clear up cap space and add to their draft stash then, Justin Reid will be a consideration. He hasn't been a liability, but he also hasn't necessarily lived up to his contract, and the Chiefs could create $10.7 million in space.
Top Trade Targets: DT Jonathan Allen, WR Tyler Lockett, WR Amari Cooper
The Chiefs could lose both Jones and L'Jarius Sneed, and they are still going to enter 2024 as one of the Super Bowl favorites. They aren't flush with cash, but they also aren't in dire straights. So they could swing a trade for a veteran who could help, especially if they let Jones go.
If they do that, then someone like Jonathan Allen could help backfill some of the production lost. But going out and getting another receiver who could team up with Rashee Rice to give Patrick Mahomes a trusty duo isn't a bad option either. Both Tyler Lockett and Amari Cooper are proven options who would save their current teams significant cap space if they were traded away.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 second-round pick, 2024 fourth-round pick for DT Jonathan Allen
The Chiefs need wide receivers, but they can probably find some answers in the second and third waves of free agency. Finding a defensive tackle who can affect the game the way that Chris Jones does will be nearly impossible.
Jonathan Allen can't quite do that. Jones' production at the position is nearly unmatched. He does, however, fit into the tier below Jones. He had 43 total pressures this season compared to Jones' 67.
Jeremy Fowler of ESPN reported that Allen has let the Commanders know that he is not excited to be around for more rebuilding, so there's a chance Washington could decide to deal him. The Chiefs would have to take on his $14 million salary, but that's a lot more manageable than bringing back Jones.
Las Vegas Raiders
Cap Space: $43.4 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, Right Tackle, Interior Defender
Top Trade Assets: WR Davante Adams, WR Hunter Renfrow, QB Jimmy Garoppolo
The Raiders stuck with Antonio Pierce to replace Josh McDaniels, but it still feels like a fresh start in Las Vegas. They brought in former Chargers general manager Tom Telesco to complete their leadership overhaul, and that could mean several players are on the block. Each of these three veterans were brought in by a previous regime.
Adams can still play at an elite level, but this is not what he signed up for when he got traded to the Raiders. College teammate Derek Carr is long gone, and while he might like Pierce, this is still a team with questions at quarterback. Hunter Renfrow was nearly traded at the deadline, according to reports, and Jimmy Garoppolo's ties were to Josh McDaniels.
Top Trade Targets: QB Justin Fields, QB Russell Wilson, OT Walker Little
The Raiders are in a tough spot when it comes to their pursuit of a quarterback. They pick 13th, which means they are going to have to give up a whole lot of draft capital if they want one of the top quarterback prospects in the draft. That could leave either Justin Fields or Russell Wilson as their top trade option at quarterback. Trading for Wilson would include figuring out the financials, as the Broncos would need help making it work.
Trading for Fields is a little less complicated, but comes with a lot of questions. Fields needs the right fit and an offensive coordinator willing to build around his skill set. They just interviewed Luke Getsy who was the OC with the Bears, so that's probably not the answer.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 fifth-round pick (No. 146 overall) for OT Walker Little
The Raiders have taken a lot of big swings under previous regimes and they haven't really worked out. Trading up for a quarterback could be feasible depending on how the board falls, but that's hard to know right now.
What would make a lot of sense for the Raiders is finding a potential long-term solution at right tackle at a bargain price. That's exactly what could happen if they trade a Day 3 pick for Walker Little. The former second-round pick is on the final year of his rookie contract and the Jaguars aren't currently planning on starting him with Cam Robinson and Anton Harrison on the roster.
Little has played both left and right tackle with the Jags and filled in admirably when Robinson was suspended earlier this season. Considering linemen can take a while to blossom in the NFL, it's fair to believe his best football might be ahead of him. The Jags just traded a sixth-rounder for Ezra Cleveland. They could recoup an even better pick here for a backup lineman.
Los Angeles Chargers
Cap Space: -$44 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Interior Defender, Wide Receiver
Top Trade Assets: EDGE Khalil Mack, EDGE Joey Bosa, WR Mike Williams, WR Keenan Allen
Something has to give with the Chargers' cap situation. They are way over the cap to start the offseason and all four of these players are set to make over $32 million next season. Each would come with significant cap savings if they were traded. Allen ($23.1 million) and Mack ($23.3 million) would free the most space but they are also the two who produced more and stayed healthy last season.
Bosa and Williams each still have trade value as good players at premium positions, but they are each a little tougher sell because Williams season ended with a torn ACL and Bosa ended the season on injured reserve with a foot injury.
Top Trade Targets: Draft Picks, WR Rondale Moore, DT Levi Onwuzurike
As far as trades go, the name of the game for the Chargers is getting their cap situation right. Their best hope for improvement in 2024 lies in Jim Harbaugh unlocking the potential of a roster that has chronically underachieved. That means targeting trades that help them out financially and stockpile draft picks.
Justin Herbert is the core piece that matters. The rest should be expendable if they can help the cap situation. Targeting players in the final year of their rookie deal like Arizona Cardinals receiver Rondale Moore or Detroit Lions defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike would also make sense as they could address needs at a fairly cheap cost. They would also have the motivation of playing in a contract year, which doesn't hurt if Harbaugh wants to make a strong impression in his first year.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: WR Keenan Allen for 2024 third-round pick (No. 66 overall), WR Rondale Moore
Knox's idea of swapping Allen for a third and Rondale Moore makes sense for both sides. Allen's trade value is never going to be higher than it is right now based on his age and contract. The ability to get a Day 2 pick and a player who is still on a rookie contract should be enticing as the Chargers look to reset their financial situation.
An exciting option for Moore is that the Chargers could look to play Moore as a running back at times. He's compact at 5'7", 180 pounds and could potentially soak up some of the pass-catching responsibilities out of the backfield if Austin Ekeler is not retained.
Los Angeles Rams
Cap Space: $48.2 Million
Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Offensive Tackle, Future QB
Top Trade Assets: DT Aaron Donald, OT Joe Noteboom, WR Tutu Atwell
The Rams crafted a younger roster and still reached the postseason in 2023. They're clearly not in a rebuilding mode, but if the Rams want to continue the youth movement, defensive superstar Aaron Donald would be their top trade chip.
Donald is 32 and entering the final year of his contract, but is still one of the top interior defenders in the NFL. He'd bring a premium return in a trade, though the caveat is that he has a no-trade clause in his contract and would have to agree.
Joe Noteboom lost the left tackle job to Alaric Jackson this past season, and while Jackson is an impending free agent, his return would make Noteboom expendable. Wideout Tutu Atwell is entering the final year of his contract and has seen a diminished role because of the emergence of Puka Nacua.
Top Trade Targets: CB Carlton Davis, OT Garett Bolles, QB Trey Lance
If the Buccaneers are willing to move off of cornerback Carlton Davis, who is entering the final year of his contract, the Rams should be willing to target him. Poor pass defense (20th in yards allowed) helped lead to their wild-card loss in Detroit.
If the Rams are unable to re-sign Jackson, they should consider a run at Broncos left tackle Garett Bolles. He's entering the final year of his contract, and with Denver facing an unfavorable cap situation—plus the uncertain future of Russell Wilson—the Broncos might be willing to deal.
It would behoove the Rams to seek out a young quarterback to develop behind Matthew Stafford as well. L.A. drafted Stetson Bennett in 2023, but he's been away from the team since the beginning of the season, and head coach Sean McVay recently stated that he's unsure if Bennett will be back in 2024.
McVay might want to gamble on 2021 first-round pick Trey Lance, who is buried on Dallas' depth chart and entering the final year of his rookie deal—unless the Cowboys unexpectedly exercise his fifth-year option.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 fifth-round pick for QB Trey Lance
Stafford showed that he can still play at a top level in 2023, and he'll return for 2024. However, he'll also turn 36 next month. It's always good to have a succession plan in place, and Lance would be an intriguing one.
The 23-year-old was replaced by Brock Purdy in San Francisco and hasn't seen the field in Dallas. He still possesses an intriguing skill set, though, and could be a fun developmental project in McVay's spacing-based offense.
Acquiring Lance shouldn't be overly expensive, as Dallas traded a mere fourth-round pick for him last offseason.
Miami Dolphins
Cap Space: -$51.2 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Interior Offensive Line, Interior Defender, Tight End
Top Trade Assets: EDGE Emmanuel Ogbah, CB Xavien Howard, No. 21 Pick
The Dolphins are not in a great spot from a cap perspective. It's going to be an uphill climb to create some cap space and improve the roster this offseason. One obvious way to create some room would be trading Emmanuel Ogbah. He's still a servicable player at an important position so they might be able to get a pick in return, and it would clear $13.7 million in cap space.
Xavien Howard is another vet to watch for, but a trade wouldn't be as helpful since they would need to execute the move after June 1. It would clear $18.5 million in space, but that's not as useful once the majority of free agency and the draft are over. Trading down will need to be considered. The Dolphins don't have a third- or fourth-round pick.
Top Trade Targets: TE Luke Schoonmaker, Mid-Round Picks, OG Laken Tomlinson
Mike McDaniel needs a well-rounded tight end for his offense to work best. If they were to find a way to acquire Luke Schoonmaker they would have one the coaching staff could mold to fit their offense. As Knox noted, the Cowboys don't have as much need for Schoonmaker with Jake Ferguson's breakout campaign.
Any team facing the cap challenges that the Dolphins have should be on the lookout for draft picks where they can get them. It makes it a lot easier to field a full roster that stays under the cap with cost-controlled picks, even if they are early on Day 3.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 sixth-round pick (No. 185 via CHI) for OG Laken Tomlinson
The Jets might be hurting for offensive linemen, but they also have to know that Laken Tomlinson has not lived up to the massive contract they have signed him too. Tomlinson thrived with the San Francisco 49ers, but he was ranked 52nd among all guards and gave up seven sacks with the Jets this season, per PFF.
New York could cut $8.1 million in space and get out of a contract that would make him the fifth-highest-paid guard in the league. Tomlinson would get to return to a similar offense to the one he played like a Pro Bowler in.
Minnesota Vikings
Cap Space: $30 Million
Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, EDGE, Defensive Tackle
Top Trade Assets: WR Justin Jefferson, S Harrison Smith, CB Byron Murphy
Look, the Minnesota Vikings probably aren't going to trade star wideout Justin Jefferson. Doing so would leave Minnesota trying to replace one of the league's best offensive playmakers.
However, it can't be ruled out. Jefferson is entering the final year of his rookie contract and is likely set to become the league's highest-paid wideout. If contract negotiations hit a snag—or Minnesota simply doesn't want to hand out a massive receiver deal—trade options could be considered. Let's not forget that the Vikings moved off of Stefon Diggs five years into his career.
Minnesota is more likely to move on from safety Harrison Smith, who is 34 and set to carry a massive cap hit. Trading him would save $11.4 million in cap space. Cornerback Byron Murphy is another potential trade chip, as he's entering the final year of his contract.
Top Trade Targets: EDGE Josh Sweat, DT Davon Godchaux, First-Round Pick
Many of the Vikings' needs will hinge on how they handle impending free agents like quarterback Kirk Cousins and pass-rusher Danielle Hunter.
If Hunter departs, trading for an edge-rusher on an expiring contract, like Philadelphia's Josh Sweat, could give Minnesota a stopgap option. If Cousins isn't retained, it would be logical to trade up in the first round to secure a top quarterback prospect—Jaren Hall does not appear to be a long-term answer.
Minnesota should also look to boost its defensive front, and New England Patriots defensive tackle Davon Godchaux could help. He played under defensive coordinator Brian Flores in Miami and is entering the final year of his current contract.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 first-round pick (11th overall), 2024 second-round pick for Titans' 2024 first-round pick (seventh overall)
Cousins is still a quality quarterback, but he'll turn 36 in August and is set to be the most coveted signal-caller in free agency. Keeping him won't be cheap, and with Jefferson's extension looming, it may finally be time for Minnesota to move on.
This hypothetical trade would allow the Vikings to do that by moving up a few spots and securing LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels. While Daniels is only the 24th-ranked prospect on the B/R board, the Vikings may have to move up from No. 11 to land him.
The Falcons are sitting at No. 8 and will undoubtedly be in the market for a new quarterback. The Tennessee Titans appear to have their quarterback of the future in Will Levis, so Tennessee becomes a logical trade partner.
New England Patriots
Cap Space: $70.1 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, Offensive Tackle, Wide Receiver
Top Trade Assets: No. 3 Overall Pick, QB Mac Jones, DT Davon Godchaux
The Patriots are in a full-on rebuild mode, so if they are able to acquire a quarterback through free agency or via trade, they could be willing to move down from the No. 3 spot in order to gather more picks. With Marvin Harrison Jr. and Jayden Daniels likely to be on the board, there will certainly be a market for it.
Mac Jones' trade value might not be all that high, but teams could be interested in a former first-round pick who was not well-supported over the past two seasons. Davon Godchaux is a good interior defender, but the Patriots could save $8.2 million by trading him, and a 29-year-old defensive tackle is not an important asset to keep in the Patriots' current state.
Top Trade Targets: QB Justin Fields, WR Mike Williams, WR Jerry Jeudy
The Patriots really need to find a quarterback who can replace the combination of Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe. If they aren't comfortable with Jayden Daniels, that probably means looking at free agency (Kirk Cousins) or getting one with a trade. Justin Fields is an obvious match as a young (he'll be 25 next season) quarterback who wasn't in the most stable environment in Chicago.
Finding a No. 1 receiver should be an offseason goal as well. Targeting Mike Williams would make some sense. He is recovering from an ACL tear that he suffered last season, but he has two 1,000-yard seasons on his resume and would probably be the best true outside receiver they've had in years.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 third-round pick (No. 68 overall) 2024 seventh-round pick (No. 228) for WR Jerry Jeudy
Mike Williams would be a good addition, but he is 29 with an injury history that should be taken into account. Jerry Jeudy hasn't been as successful, but he makes a lot more sense in the fact that he's only 24 years old and there could still be some untapped potential. He might not be able to blossom into a true No. 1 receiver, but he could be a high-end No. 2 and is just one year removed from having 972 yards in a season.
New Orleans Saints
Cap Space: -$82.8 Million
Biggest Positions of Need: Offensive Tackle, Guard, Cornerback
Top Trade Assets: TE/QB Taysom Hill, S Tyrann Mathieu, First-Round Pick
The Saints are facing an absolutely desperate cap situation, and the team's penchant for kicking contracts down the road has left it with few reasonable trade chips.
Tight end and quarterback Taysom Hill is one of the few trade options that would net New Orleans extra cap space. Moving him after June 1 would save $10 million in 2024. Potential suitors may be limited to Sean Payton and the Broncos, but reaching out to Denver is worth a shot.
Safety Tyrann Mathieu is entering the final year of his contract and is still a good enough player to bring a reasonable return. Moving him would save $1.7 million in cap space. With no selections in the third or fourth rounds, New Orleans may also look to trade down from No. 14 overall to augment its roster with more middle-round rookie contracts.
Top Trade Targets: OT Morgan Moses, CB Jaycee Horn, Middle-Round Draft Picks
The Saints need to do a better job of protecting quarterback Derek Carr, though trading for a starting-caliber lineman with virtually no cap space would be extremely difficult. New Orleans' options will be limited to players on budget deals, like Ravens right tackle Morgan Moses.
Moses is entering the final year of his contract and is set to carry a modest base salary of $5.5 million.
The Saints could also use cornerback help, and taking a flier on a rookie contract like that of Carolina's Jaycee Horn would be sensible. Horn's early career has been marred by injuries, but his rookie salary would be manageable for New Orleans.
As previously mentioned, the Saints may have to load up on mid-tier rookie contracts to field a functional team in 2024—something the Rams did to great effect in 2023. Moving down in Round 1 could help the Saints accomplish that goal.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 first-round pick (14th overall) for Carolina's 2024 second-round pick (33rd overall), 2024 third-round pick, 2025 third-round pick and CB Jaycee Horn
Division rivals rarely like to help one another out, but this hypothetical trade could be a win-win for both the Saints and the Panthers.
New Orleans could take a chance on Horn while adding an extra Day 2 pick to its draft haul. The Panthers would move into the first round and have a crack at a top receiver or pass-rushing prospect.
With the top selection in Round 2, the Saints could target a line prospect like Georgia's Amarius Mims or Kansas State's Cooper Beebe.
New York Giants
Cap Space: $27.8 Million
Biggest Positions of Need: Offensive Tackle, Guard, Wide Receiver
Top Trade Assets: TE Darren Waller, EDGE Azeez Ojulari, First-Round Pick
The New York Giants are facing a difficult decision. They have quarterback Daniel Jones under contract through 2026, but given his lackluster play in 2023, the Giants may have to consider taking a new QB with the sixth overall pick.
Drake Maye and Caleb Williams will almost certainly be off the board by No. 6, but LSU's Jayden Daniels may well be available. If the Giants stick with Jones, they may be willing to sell that pick to another QB-needy team.
Other trade assets include oft-injured tight end Darren Waller and pass-rusher Azeez Ojulari. Waller is a playmaker when healthy, but his availability is a problem for a team that desperately needs pass-catching help. Ojulari is entering the final year of his rookie contract and could be flipped for capital to help improve New York's offense.
Top Trade Targets: WR Tyler Lockett, WR Keenan Allen, First-Round Pick
Regardless of who the Giants have under center in 2024, the need for dependable wide receivers looms large. Trading for a veteran pass-catcher like Tyler Lockett or Keenan Allen would immediately boost the receiving corps.
Both the Seahawks and Chargers are facing tough cap situations, which means Lockett and/or Allen could land on the trade block. Acquiring one of them would give New York the sort of reliable perimeter target it currently lacks.
We could also see the Giants move up in Round 1, either for one of the top quarterbacks or for a pass-catcher like Ohio State wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. or Georgia tight end Brock Bowers.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 first-round pick, 2024 second-round pick, 2024 second-round pick (from Seattle), 2025 first-round pick for 2024 No. 1 overall pick
The Giants can't really move off of Jones until next offseason, when his dead-cap number will fall to $22.2 million. However, the Giants are within striking distance of an elite QB prospect now and shouldn't waste the opportunity.
Jones has been slightly above-average at his best and simply can't be counted on as a long-term option.
Moving up to No. 1 would A.) require the Bears sticking with Justin Fields and B.) would be costly, even though it's only a five-spot move. However, it would give New York its pick of Williams or Maye while allowing the Giants to jump in front of the division-rival Washington Commanders.
New York has an extra second-round pick thanks to the Leonard Williams trade, meaning it could put together an enticing trade package that doesn't carry far into the future. We'd love to see at least one of the New York teams field an elite young quarterback, and this hypothetical deal could help make that happen.
New York Jets
Cap Space: $7.6 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Offensive Tackle, Wide Receiver, Safety
Top Trade Assets: OG Laken Tomlinson, No. 10 Overall Pick, LB C.J. Mosley
The Jets need a lot of help on the offensive line, but Laken Tomlinson has not been a great fit and could bring a decent return from a team that needs an interior lineman. He gave up seven sacks last season, per PFF. Trading him away would create $8.1 million in space, which would more than double what they have right now.
Trading away C.J. Mosley would clear quite a bit of room, too. The 32-year-old is in the final year of his deal, and they would save $11 million in cap room. It's not ideal, because the Jets defense is the strength of the team, but they could certainly find cheaper alternatives.
The 10th pick is a great trade chip, too. Depending on how the quarterbacks fall, they could wind up being in a great position for anyone wanting to jump in front of Minnesota or Denver.
Top Trade Targets: WR Davante Adams, OT Cam Robinson, Day 2 Draft Picks
There aren't a lot of offensive tackles that could be available in the trade market, but it would be worth a call to the Jaguars to see if Cam Robinson might be available. They have a replacement on the roster as Walker Little and Anton Harrison are two young options who could be starters. The Jags would also clear up $16.1 million by trading away their left tackle.
The Jets, like any team facing some cap restraints, could also use some more Day 2 picks. They currently don't have a second-rounder as that went to the Packers in the Aaron Rodgers trade.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 first-round pick (No. 10 overall), 2024 (fourth-round pick (No. 111 overall), 2025 second-round pick, 2025 fourth-round pick for 2024 first-round pick (No. 13 overall), WR Davante Adams
The Jets have already pushed most of their chips to the center of the table by making the move for Aaron Rodgers. Why not double down by reuniting Rodgers with his favorite target?
There's a lot of moving parts to this trade. The Raiders would need to be motivated to move up the board, but if Jayden Daniels were to fall or if they are high on Michael Penix, then this gives them the opportunity to jump ahead of the Vikings and Broncos (both of which could be in the quarterback market) while still getting a stockpile of picks for trading Adams.
Philadelphia Eagles
Cap Space: $28.6 Million
Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Safety, Linebacker
Top Trade Assets: EDGE Haason Reddick, EDGE Josh Sweat, S Kevin Byard
The Eagles are undergoing some big coaching changes this offseason, and roster changes may ensue.
The Eagles desperately need to reload their secondary, and parting with pass-rushers like Haason Reddick and Josh Sweat could help them do that. Both are key players in Philly's front seven, but both are impending 2025 free agents. The Eagles are unlikely to keep both long-term, and trading one of them would likely bring a premium return.
Philadelphia will likely also look to move off of in-season trade acquisition Kevin Byard. The 30-year-old didn't provide the secondary with the desired boost Philly was seeking, and moving him would save $13.5 million in cap space.
Top Trade Targets: CB Patrick Surtain II, S Budda Baker, First-Round Pick
The Eagles should be eager to acquire help in their back seven this offseason. Broncos standout cornerback Patrick Surtain II would help fill at least one of those voids.
According to ProFootballTalk's Mike Florio, the Eagles tried to acquire Surtain before the trade deadline.
Surtain, like Cardinals safety Budda Baker, is entering the final year of his contract. Acquiring one of the two would bolster Philadelphia's secondary tremendously.
The Eagles could also consider trading up to secure a defensive back like Alabama corner Kool-Aid McKinstry or Miami safety Kamren Kinchens in the draft. Philly currently holds the 22nd pick in the draft, and there's no guarantee that either of the draft's top DB prospects will be available there.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 first-round pick, 2024 fifth-round pick and EDGE Josh Sweat for CB Patrick Surtain II
According to Florio, the Broncos weren't willing to move Surtain without a "a major haul."
A pass-rusher like Sweat and a first-round pick might qualify. While that would be a lot for Philly to surrender, Surtain is worth it. He's arguably the best young corner in the league, and he'd be a major asset playing opposite Darius Slay in Philadelphia.
The problem with simply using a first-round pick on a cornerback is that this draft isn't top-heavy at the position. McKinstry is the only CB to receive a first-round grade from the Bleacher Report Scouting Department, and a proven commodity could be much more valuable for a team looking to win now.
Reengaging in the pursuit of Surtain would absolutely make sense for Philadelphia. Whether the Broncos would be willing to deal after rebuffing offers only a few months ago is another matter.
However, Denver's looming decision on Russell Wilson and potential pursuit of a replacement quarterback could make the Broncos more willing to trade for draft capital now.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Cap Space: -$14.2 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, Offensive Tackle, Cornerback
Top Trade Assets: OT Chukwuma Okorafor, No. 20 Pick, CB/S Patrick Peterson
The Steelers don't have a lot to offer, especially because they are rarely ever in full-on rebuild mode. However, if they can find a suitor for Chukwuma Okorafor, it would make a lot of sense to send him to a team willing to part with a pick. He is a cap casualty candidate anyway who would clear $8.7 million in cap space and lost his job to Broderick Jones.
Patrick Peterson is a trade asset for similar reasons. He moved to safety the final few games of the season, and trading him would clear just under $7 million.
They also have the 20th overall selection and seven picks in the draft if they want to move up or down the board.
Top Trade Targets: C Ted Karras, CB Jonathan Jones, Early Draft Pick
It's tough to find a left tackle in the trade market who could replace Dan Moore Jr., but the task of finding an upgrade over Mason Cole at center isn't as difficult. Ted Karras is a solid veteran center who would upgrade the offensive line, and the Bengals would shed $6.4 million in cap space.
Jonathan Jones is 30 years old, and the Patriots are in rebuild mode. They might be willing to part with the veteran if it gives them an extra pick in the draft and saves money.
Then there's the idea of trading for an early draft pick that could either be used to take one of the top tackle prospects in the draft or a quarterback to compete with Kenny Pickett.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 first-round pick (No. 20 overall), 2024 second-round pick (No. 51 overall) and 2025 third-round pick for 2024 first-round pick (No. 10 overall)
The Steelers defense was good enough to keep a frustrating offense afloat throughout the season. They wound up making the playoffs and continuing their streak of non-losing seasons, but if they want to get further than that, it's going to require a bigger swing at quarterback or an improved offensive line.
The trade compensation here directly mirrors the deal they made to get Devin Bush in the 2019 draft, but it would work out better because they'd be targeting a premium position instead of an off-ball linebacker.
In the B/R Scouting Department's latest mock draft, Jayden Daniels would be on the board, so he would be the pick. The Heisman winner is much more dynamic than Kenny Pickett and would raise the ceiling of the offense significantly.
San Francisco 49ers
Cap Space: $1.4 Million
Biggest Positions of Need: Guard, Offensive Tackle, Cornerback
Top Trade Assets: WR Brandon Aiyuk, LB Dre Greenlaw, OT Kolton McKivitz
The 49ers need cap space, and they may need to sort out the future of wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk to find it. Aiyuk is set to play on the fifth-year option and could become a trade chip if San Francisco cannot extend him.
According to ESPN's Nick Wagoner, the 49ers don't plan to trade Aiyuk, but the right offer could change things in a hurry. The 2024 drat class is expected to be deep at receiver, so getting a new No. 2 wideout on a fresh rookie deal is far from a terrible idea.
Linebacker Dre Greenlaw has been splendid for the 49ers but is entering the final year of his contract. Dealing him would save $6.8 million in cap space. San Francisco needs an upgrade at right tackle and could look to move Kolton McKivitz as part of that plan.
McKivitz wouldn't bring much in return, but moving him would save $1.9 million in cap space.
Top Trade Targets: OT Morgan Moses, G Laken Tomlinson, CB Patrick Surtain II
McKivitz has been a liability at right tackle, responsible for two penalties and nine sacks allowed during the regular season, according to Pro Football Focus. Making a play for Ravens right tackle Morgan Moses, who is entering the final year of his contract, would make plenty of sense.
The 49ers could also use help at guard, and acquiring former 49er Laken Tomlinson—another 2025 free agent—from the Jets would be logical.
Though it ranked a respectable 14th in passing yards allowed, San Francisco's secondary had its fair share of issues during stretches of the regular season and the playoffs. If the 49ers are willing to swing big, Denver cornerback Patrick Surtain II would be a prime trade target.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 first-round pick, LB Dre Greenlaw for CB Patrick Surtain II
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the 49ers tried to pry Surtain away from the Broncos before the trade deadline. Revisiting that idea could be a home-run move for San Francisco.
Surtain is entering the fourth year of his rookie deal and wouldn't eat a ton of 2024 cap space. He's also one of the best young corners in football. This past season, he allowed an opposing passer rating of only 88.2 in coverage.
Surtain is certainly worth a late first-round pick, and he would pair well with Charvarius Ward on the perimeter. Denver would net a premium pick—one that might be used to help move up for a new quarterback—plus a fantastic linebacker to help bolster its 29th-ranked defense.
Seattle Seahawks
Cap Space: $-4,027
Biggest Positions of Need: Guard, Linebacker, Future QB
Top Trade Assets: WR Tyler Lockett, TE Will Dissly, S Jamal Adams
The Seahawks are facing a rough cap situation and may have to move off of some quality players to rectify it. Moving 31-year-old receiver Tyler Lockett would be hard to justify to fans, but it would make plenty of sense.
Lockett saw a drop in production this past season and has just two years remaining on his contract. Trading him would save $8 million in cap space.
Tight end Will Dissly is entering the final year of his current deal and should be viewed as expendable. He was rarely used in 2023, and trading him would save $7 million in cap space. Safety Jamal Adams hasn't played up to his trade or contract value in recent years and is a potential cap casualty.
If the Seahawks could move Adams after June 1, they could save a whopping $16.5 million in 2024 cap space.
Top Trade Targets: G Laken Tomlinson, LB C.J. Mosley, Early First-Round Pick
The Seahawks have a history of dealing with the Jets (Adams, Leonard Williams), which makes guard Laken Tomlinson and linebacker C.J. Mosley both logical targets for Seattle.
Seattle could use help along the interior of its offensive line and at the second level of its defense. Tomlinson and Mosley are entering the final year of their respective contracts and could be potential cap casualties for the Jets. Finding the cap space to acquire either could be tricky, but both would make sense for the Seahawks.
It would also make sense for Seattle to move up in the draft to secure a quarterback of the future. Geno Smith saw a slight decline in 2023, he's 33 and he's only signed through the 2025 season.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 first-round pick (16th overall), 2024 fourth-round pick, 2025 second-round pick and WR Tyler Lockett for Titans' 2024 first-round pick (seventh overall)
We'd love to see Seattle get aggressive in the draft and move up for a quarterback. The Seahawks probably don't have a shot at Caleb Williams or Drake Maye, but LSU's Jayden Daniels might be a possibility.
Daniels is the 24th-ranked prospect on the Bleacher Report Scouting Department big board, but Seattle would likely have to move up to get him. Trading with the Tennessee Titans would allow the Seahawks to jump the Falcons at No. 8.
This hypothetical trade would net the Seahawks their QB of the future while giving Tennessee extra draft capital and a proven receiver for second-year quarterback Will Levis.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Cap Space: $48.7 Million
Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, Cornerback, Center
Top Trade Assets: CB Carlton Davis, EDGE Shaquil Barrett, WR Chris Godwin
The Buccaneers will need to find a quarterback if they don't retain Baker Mayfield. If they do keep Mayfield, they may have to find a way to re-sign wideout Mike Evans, too.
"If I'm back, I want Mike (Evans) back," Mayfield said, per NFL Network's Sara Walsh.
Re-signing both Mayfield and Evans could be costly, but Tampa has options for creating cap space. Cornerback Carlton Davis, pass-rusher Shaquil Barrett and wideout Chris Godwin are all entering the final year of their respective contracts.
Moving Davis would save $6.3 million in cap space, while moving Barrett after June 1 would save $5 million. Moving Godwin after June 1 would save $20 million in cap space, and while Godwin is a great receiver, Mayfield has a more consistent connection with Evans.
Top Trade Targets: C Mitch Morse, CB Charvarius Ward, CB Jonathan Jones
Offensively, the Buccaneers could use help along the interior of the offensive line. Bills center Mitch Morse will be a potential cap casualty this offseason and could help give Tampa a little more consistency up front.
Tampa also needs to bolster a pass defense that ranked 25th in net yards per attempt allowed and 29th in yards surrendered last season. The Bucs' inability to corral Detroit's pass attack played a huge role in Tampa's exit in the divisional round.
If Tampa is active on the trade market, expect it to target corners on expiring contracts like San Francisco's Charvarius Ward and New England's Jonathan Jones.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: WR Chris Godwin for 2025 first-round pick, CB Jonathan Jones
Godwin was once again a 1,000-yard receiver in 2023, but Evans was clearly Mayfield's favorite target. There's a very real chance that the Bucs can only retain one of the two, and flipping Godwin could make plenty of sense.
It would make the most sense after June 1, when the Bucs would generate significant cap savings. A future first-round pick would be reasonable for the soon-to-be 28-year-old, and the Patriots would be a logical suitor. New England may draft a new quarterback in April, but it desperately needs dependable pass-catchers.
If the Bucs agree to the deal pre-draft—and execute it during the summer—they could re-sign Evans and target a receiver like LSU's Brian Thomas Jr. or Oregon's Troy Franklin in April. Squeezing Jones out of the deal would give the Bucs much-needed depth in the secondary.
Tennessee Titans
Cap Space: $73.9 million
Biggest Positions of Need: Offensive Tackle, EDGE, Wide Receiver
Top Trade Assets: No. 7 Overall Pick, WR DeAndre Hopkins, OT Andre Dillard
The Titans' biggest needs also happen to be the premium positions that are vital for every team to fill. That's as good as indicator as any that this is a team that should be in full-on rebuild mode. However, trading down in the draft should be a priority. The Titans only have two picks in the top 100 (No. 7 and No. 38).
The status of the roster also makes DeAndre Hopkins a questionable fit moving forward. The 31-year-old proved he can still be a No. 1 option this season, but that likely won't be the case by the time the Titans are good again.
Andre Dillard was a disaster this season, but he's a tackle, so there could always be a team willing to take a shot on a former first-round pick.
Top Trade Targets: Day 1 and 2 Draft Picks, OT Garrett Bolles, OT Cam Robinson
The Titans really have to find answers on the offensive line if they want to give Will Levis the best shot at making positive strides in 2024. In our latest mock draft we have them taking JC Latham with the seventh overall pick after the Giants snipe Joe Alt away from them at No. 6. However, if the Titans could pull off a trade for a veteran who can fill the role they could go into the draft with a best player available strategy.
Garrett Bolles is entering the final year of his contract and the Broncos, who will have a tricky cap situation if they release Russell Wilson, would save $16 million by trading him. The Titans have the cash to pay that bill. Cam Robinson is a little less likely given that the Jaguars are in the division, but the prospect of getting some cap savings could incentivize the Jags to move him.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 first-round pick (No. 7 Overall), 2024 fifth-round pick (No. 145 overall) for 2024 first-round pick (No. 12 overall), 2024 third-round pick (No. 76 overall), OT Garrett Bolles
This hypothetical deal accomplishes two huge things for the Titans. They would pick up an additional top-100 pick while acquiring Bolles for the reasons mentioned previously. The Titans could still target a tackle with the 12th pick if they want, but they would have options to pick one that might take more time to develop such as Latham, who could still be on the board.
For the Broncos, it's an opportunity to potentially trade up for a quarterback at a relatively low cost compared to what other teams have given up to draft a signal-caller. The Titans have too many needs to get zeroed in on one prospect. They will still get a quality prospect at No. 12 but also add another bite at the apple in the third round.
Washington Commanders
Cap Space: $84.3 Million
Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, EDGE, Guard
Top Trade Assets: QB Sam Howell, WR Dyami Brown, First-Round Pick
The Commanders' offseason will be dictated by the franchise's plan for the No. 2 overall pick. Washington can stay put and land either Drake Maye or Caleb Williams. It could also flip the selection for a massive return.
If the Commanders stick with the second pick and draft their quarterback of the future, they may look to move Sam Howell. As a second-year player, Howell started all 17 games for Washington, and he flashed plenty of promise. However, he also made too many mistakes to justify passing on a premier QB prospect.
That said, Howell showed enough to net some value in a trade.
Washington may also look to deal wideout Dyami Brown, who has played only a limited role in the offense and who is entering the final year of his rookie deal.
Top Trade Targets: EDGE Matthew Judon, CB Charvarius Ward, G Laken Tomlinson
After trading pass-rushers Montez Sweat and Chase Young at the deadline, Washington may not be interested in dealing for another veteran pass-rusher. However, they might be able to land New England's Matthew Judon on the cheap, since he's entering the final year of his deal and missed much of the season with a torn biceps.
Adding a pass-rusher or a cornerback on an expiring contract, like San Francisco's Charvarius Ward, would help Washington bolster its 32nd-ranked pass defense.
The Commanders also need to improve an offensive line that surrendered 65 sacks in 2023. The Jets have a decision to make with guard Laken Tomlinson—trading or cutting him would save $8.1 million in cap space—and Washington would be wise to consider taking advantage.
Hypothetical Trade We'd Love to See: 2024 third-round pick for CB Charvarius Ward
The Commanders defense needs help on the back end. The 49ers sent Washington their 2024 third-round pick for Young, and are facing a pretty dicey cap situation. If the Commanders could give the 49ers their third-rounder back for Ward, it could be a win for both franchises.
Will San Francisco want to move Ward? Undoubtedly not. He was the team's best cover corner in 2023 and allowed an opposing passer rating of only 64.5 in coverage. However, he's entering the final year of his contract and is set to carry a cap hit of $17.9 million.
Theoretically, the Commanders could agree to take on some of the $17.2 million in dead money remaining on Ward's deal to facilitate a deal and lighten San Francisco's cap burden.
The Commanders have the cap space to make it happen and could land their No. 1 corner in the process.
*Cap and contract information via Spotrac. Advanced statistics from Pro Football Reference unless otherwise noted.