2026 NFL trade deadline candidates: Ranking big-name players possibly on the move into tiers

Top NFL Trade Deadline Candidates: Big Names Likely on the Move

CBS Sports•
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Summary

As the 2026 NFL trade deadline approaches, several prominent players appear to be on the move, especially as teams reassess their seasons. Here’s a look at some key candidates:

Jonathan Taylor, RB, Indianapolis Colts

  • Age: 27
  • Experience: 7 years
  • Taylor has been a standout despite the Colts’ struggles, rushing for 95 yards and a touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings. With a 2-5 record, the Colts may consider moving him.

Saquon Barkley, RB, Philadelphia Eagles

  • Age: 29
  • Experience: 9 years
  • Barkley has faced injuries, averaging only 48.8 rushing yards per game. With the Eagles’ playoff hopes dwindling, a trade may be feasible.

Maxx Crosby, DE, Las Vegas Raiders

  • Age: 29
  • Experience: 8 years
  • Following a rough stretch for the Raiders, Crosby’s future is uncertain. GM John Spytek might entertain offers after initially seeking two first-round picks.

Khalil Mack, OLB, L.A. Chargers

  • Age: 35
  • Experience: 13 years
  • Mack has recorded three sacks this season and is a valuable trade piece as he plays for a winless team.

Budda Baker, S, Arizona Cardinals

  • Age: 30
  • Experience: 10 years
  • A perennial Pro Bowler, Baker remains a game-changer and could be a coveted asset if the Cardinals decide to trade him.

Daron Payne, NT, Washington Commanders

  • Age: 29
  • Experience: 9 years
  • Payne’s production has dipped, but he remains a strong interior lineman. Washington likely won't part with him easily.

Josh Downs, WR, Indianapolis Colts

  • Age: 25
  • Experience: 4 years
  • Downs has requested a trade after a solid season, making him a target for teams looking to bolster their receiving corps.

Tony Pollard, RB, Tennessee Titans

  • Age: 29
  • Experience: 8 years
  • Pollard’s recent performance with 129 yards and three touchdowns against the Cleveland Browns makes him an attractive option at a lower cost.

Jerry Jeudy, WR, Cleveland Browns

  • Age: 27
  • Experience: 7 years
  • With limited targets this season, Jeudy could benefit from a change of scenery.

Additional Candidates:

  • Josh Uche, LB, Miami Dolphins
  • Kristian Fulton, CB, Kansas City Chiefs
  • Shedeur Sanders, QB, Cleveland Browns

As teams look to reshape their rosters ahead of the deadline, these players could significantly impact their new squads.

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