The 2026 NFL trade deadline is less than a week away, and teams in the playoff picture are evaluating moves to bolster their rosters. Several high-profile players have already been dealt, including guard Quenton Nelson and defensive tackles DeForest Buckner and Jeffrey Simmons. With the deadline set for November 10, CBS Sports has outlined one realistic and one aspirational trade scenario for each current playoff contender.
AFC Contenders
The Buffalo Bills could target a safety to complement Cole Bishop, with Atlanta's Jessie Bates as a pipe dream and Tennessee's Amani Hooker as a realistic option. The Denver Broncos might pursue Colts running back Jonathan Taylor as a splash move, while a more attainable target could be Eagles tight end Dallas Goedert. The Pittsburgh Steelers need a receiver who wins against man coverage; Colts' Josh Downs fits the pipe dream, while Commanders cornerback Amik Robertson is a realistic defensive addition. The Jacksonville Jaguars, missing Davon Hamilton, could chase Patriots defensive tackle Christian Barmore or Dolphins' Zach Sieler. The Kansas City Chiefs, still searching for a true WR1 since Tyreek Hill's departure, dream of Jets' Garrett Wilson but could settle for Jaguars' Brian Thomas Jr. The Cincinnati Bengals, strong on offense but shaky at linebacker and cornerback, eye Chargers' Daiyan Henley and Eagles' Riq Woolen. The New England Patriots, with Harold Landry III sidelined, could add edge rushers like Steelers' Alex Highsmith or Jets' Will McDonald IV.
NFC Contenders
The San Francisco 49ers, decimated at wide receiver, would love to acquire Josh Downs or bring in veteran Calvin Ridley. The Minnesota Vikings, struggling to run the ball, see Jonathan Taylor as the ideal fit, with Tony Pollard as a fallback. The New York Giants, lacking a reliable back, could target Jets' Breece Hall or bolster their run defense with Colts' Grover Stewart. The Carolina Panthers, hit by injuries on defense, might pursue Chargers' Khalil Mack or Donte Jackson. The Chicago Bears could reunite with Khalil Mack or add Commanders' Amik Robertson at cornerback. The Detroit Lions, plagued by secondary issues, may target Colts' Charvarius Ward or reunite with Amik Robertson. The Green Bay Packers, with a stagnant run game, dream of Eagles guard Landon Dickerson or could add Titans' explosive back Tyjae Spears. Teams just outside the playoff picture, such as the Seattle Seahawks, Los Angeles Rams, and others, also have identified targets to address specific needs.
