Most people think of the year as having four seasons – summer, winter, spring and fall. But the NFL follows its own rhythm. There’s preseason, regular season, postseason, draft season, offseason, and trade season.
One of the most important of these is the trade deadline. It represents the final window for teams to make significant changes before the playoffs begin.
Why the Trade Deadline Matters
The deadline serves as the last true chance for clubs to upgrade their rosters. While blockbuster trades are rare in the NFL compared to other sports, history shows that meaningful deals do happen — and anything could change in 2025, particularly with some unhappy stars seeking new teams.
This year, player movement is set to freeze at 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Nov. 4. Until then, expect some deals to shake up the league.
Notable Trade Activity and Rumours
Bengals: A Quiet Starter
Jackson, a third-round pick in the 2024 draft for the Cincinnati Bengals, has appeared in just one game this season and recorded one tackle. After a knee injury cut short his rookie year and limited production under new DC Al Golden, he has requested a trade — following linebacker Logan Wilson’s request last week.
Jets ↔ Eagles Swap
On October 29, the New York Jets traded cornerback Michael Carter II to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for receiver John Metchie III. Carter had been one of the better slot corners under coach Robert Saleh, but his role diminished under new coach Aaron Glenn. The Eagles bolster their secondary, while the Jets improve their receiving corps.
Jakobi Meyers on the Move?
Receiver Jakobi Meyers is widely regarded as having a “decent chance” to be traded. He has publicly requested a move and multiple teams are interested — but the asking price is steep, especially from his current club, the Las Vegas Raiders.
Jets Consider Keeping Breece Hall
Despite being a free agent after the season, running back Breece Hall may not be dealt by the Jets after all. The team could retain him for 2026 rather than settle for a lesser offer now.
Bengals Stand Firm on Trey Hendrickson
Edge rusher Trey Hendrickson has drawn interest (from teams like the San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys), but the Bengals have rejected inquiries. His contract situation remains unresolved and rumours will persist.
Patriots Eye Running Backs
The New England Patriots are expected to be buyers at the deadline. While many anticipated they would pursue wide receivers, they may instead target running backs and veteran pass-rushers. This could impact rookie TreVeyon Henderson, whose starting role remains uncertain.
Jets Open to Offers for Quinnen Williams
Defensive tackle Quinnen Williams is another name to watch. While the Jets don’t plan to trade him lightly, they are open to listening — and a large enough offer could change that position.
Browns Won’t Trade Myles Garrett
Despite speculation, the Myles Garrett deal is reportedly “no chance” to happen according to sources — emphasizing his value to the Cleveland Browns.
Recent Trades in Motion
Patriots traded safety Kyle Dugger and a seventh-round pick to the Steelers for a sixth-rounder.
Patriots also sent edge rusher Keion White and a seventh-round pick to the 49ers in return for a sixth-round pick.
The Tennessee Titans traded cornerback Roger McCreary to the Los Angeles Rams in a pick-swap deal.
The New York Giants have no interest in letting go of pass-rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux — rejecting trade chatter for now.
The New Orleans Saints may trade receiver Rashid Shaheed (and perhaps Brandin Cooks) to acquire draft capital as they work to retain star receiver Chris Olave.
Trade Candidates List
Sports analysts list multiple players likely available ahead of the deadline:
QBs: Kirk Cousins (Falcons), Russell Wilson (Giants)
RBs: Breece Hall (Jets), Alvin Kamara (Saints)
WRs: Jakobi Meyers (Raiders), Chris Olave (Saints), Rashid Shaheed (Saints)
TE: Mark Andrews (Ravens)
DE: Trey Hendrickson (Bengals)
DT: Jeffery Simmons (Titans)
Edge: Jaelen Phillips (Dolphins)
CB: Riq Woolen (Seahawks)
Deadline Details: Date & Time
The 2025 NFL trade deadline is scheduled for November 4 at 4 p.m. ET. After that point, clubs have limited options — mainly waivers and free-agency — to alter their rosters.