The NFL trade deadline is quickly approaching, and with it, teams must decide whether to push for a playoff run or reshape their rosters for the future. This decision becomes especially crucial for clubs underperforming in the early season. Based on current standings and roster compositions, several teams appear to be in a position to become sellers. Here’s a look at five teams that should consider offloading assets before the 2025 trade deadline.
1. Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns have taken steps to reshape their roster following an underwhelming start to the season. With the addition of Joe Flacco and the trade of Greg Newsome II, the Browns seem focused on the future rather than immediate success. With 14 rookies on their 53-man roster, the team is clearly looking to build for next season and beyond.
Best Trade Chip: TE David Njoku. Despite a recent resurgence, Njoku’s trade value may be at its peak. If Cleveland can leverage his abilities to acquire additional draft capital or assets more aligned with their long-term plans, it could be a prudent move. Transitioning to a rebuilding mindset could solidify a more stable future for the team.
2. New Orleans Saints
New Orleans has struggled to reclaim its status as a contender since the departure of Sean Payton. With an abysmal 1-4 start and aging veterans taking up significant cap space, the Saints must confront the reality of their situation.
Best Trade Chip: WR Chris Olave. While Olave is a talented young receiver, his hefty guaranteed salary for next season may make him expendable. The Saints could benefit from moving Olave to a contender, recouping valuable picks to aid a much-needed rebuild.
3. Tennessee Titans
The Titans appear to be at a crossroads. Head coach Brian Callahan’s early tenure has been marred by poor decision-making, and the team’s lack of vision has left it without a clear path forward. The roster is filled with players who haven’t lived up to expectations, which puts pressure on management to act.
Best Trade Chip: DT Jeffery Simmons. Simmons is an elite performer and could command significant return value if traded. Although the front office may hesitate to part with such talent, it could enable the Titans to rebuild and correct the issues plaguing the franchise.
4. Cincinnati Bengals
With quarterback Joe Burrow sidelined for an extended period, the Bengals may need to reconsider their stance as championship contenders. If the team continues to falter, it might be time to pivot towards a rebuilding phase focused on long-term success.
Best Trade Chip: DE Trey Hendrickson. After a strong performance last season, Hendrickson could attract teams looking to bolster their defensive line. Dealing him now may provide the Bengals with the opportunity to reload and address other roster deficiencies while still benefiting from his presence during the current season.
5. Baltimore Ravens
Though the Ravens still believe they can make a playoff push, their recent struggles have raised questions about their roster strategy. If they find themselves below .500 by the deadline, a reconsideration of their player assets could be wise.
Best Trade Chip: TE Mark Andrews. With the emergence of Isaiah Likely, Andrews has become more expendable. Trading him could allow the Ravens to free up cap space and gain additional draft capital while setting themselves up for a more sustainable future.
Conclusion
As the 2025 trade deadline approaches, the NFL landscape is primed for change. Teams like the Browns, Saints, Titans, Bengals, and Ravens face critical decisions that could reshape their futures. Moving veteran players can provide the necessary assets to build a competitive roster for years to come.
The trends in recent trade markets indicate that teams are becoming more open to trading players, especially when faced with a challenging season. For franchises seeking to rebuild, the 2025 deadline may present a golden opportunity to capitalize on their existing assets, reinvigorating their rosters in the process.
As the deadline nears, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see which teams choose to embrace the seller’s role, marking a pivotal moment in the NFL season.
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