Top 5 offseason trade candidates in the NFL
The Super Bowl has come and gone, which means it’s time to shift focus to the NFL offseason.
This period should be just as busy as the coaching cycle, which had a record-tying 10 new head coaching changes.
As we inch closer to the frenzy of free agency, let’s look at some players who will likely be on the move this offseason.
5. QB Kyler Murray
The Cardinals are looking to turn a new leaf, and it most likely means the end of the Kyler Murray era.
After multiple years filled with injuries and inconsistencies, the Cardinals may want to start fresh with new head coach Mike LaFleur.
This is why the Cardinals will likely deal Murray at some point this offseason. While he hasn’t developed into a superstar, he is still a quarterback teams will take a chance on.
I see a team like the Jets attempt to get him. He is an upgrade from any quarterback on their roster, and should still have the athleticism to compete when he turns 29 this August.
It’s a rather disappointing end to his Cardinals career, but both sides will likely go their separate ways based on how the last few years have gone in Arizona.
4. Keon Coleman
Keon Coleman has had a rough go to start his NFL career. After being touted as the answer to the Buffalo Bills' receiving woes, it’s gone the exact opposite.
After a subpar rookie year, things didn’t get much better for the 2024 second-round pick.
Getting healthy scratched for off-the-field issues and inconsistent play on the field sums up a miserable year for the wideout
He’s yet to showcase his full potential after a standout campaign with Florida State, as he was unable to eclipse 50 yards in eight consecutive games last year.
Based on the comments Terry Pegula made about Coleman, it’s difficult to envision him wearing a Bills uniform in 2026.
3. Maxx Crosby
Another big name should headline the NFL offseason, as it’s looking like Maxx Crosby will want out of Las Vegas.
It was a sour ending to the 2025 campaign when the Raiders organization decided to place the star pass rusher on season-ending injury reserve because of a knee injury.
This was an injury he had been dealing with for most of the year, and he was frustrated to be done for the season with just two games left.
There’s now speculation he’ll be on the move, and it makes sense. The Raiders are entering a period of deep overhaul, and the 28-year-old has shown he wants to compete.
Las Vegas will be looking for a big haul or a premium player for the two-time All-Pro.
2. Alvin Kamara
It’s officially a rebuilding period for the New Orleans Saints, which means Kamara might be a veteran the Saints decide to deal with in the offseason.
With just one year remaining on his contract, the Saints are likely to trade him to commit to a youth movement.
Kamara didn’t produce much last year, but half the reason was injuries. At age 30, his stock won’t be as high as it once was. However, he can still be a threat in the pass game, which gives him value to multiple teams.
With veteran players like Demario Davis, Taysom Hill, and Cameron Jordan all expected to leave, it’s looking clearer that Kamara will be on the move as well.
1. A.J. Brown
Arguably the most desirable player on this list, Brown has sparked many trade rumors based on last season.
The Eagles underperformed in 2026 despite making the wildcard round. With the talent shown on paper, this team should’ve made another Super Bowl run.
Instead, the offense was a complete mess, wasting a defense that ranked fifth in the NFL in points allowed.
Brown was unable to get involved consistently to begin the season, but the production started ramping up towards the latter half of the season.
Despite this, Brown expressed frustration throughout the season. He frequently complained about the state of the passing offense and engaged in altercations with Nick Siranni.
Even with the firing of Kevin Patullo, don’t be surprised to see the disgruntled wideout on the move during the free agency period.
Ben Barker is a third-year student studying broadcast journalism. To contact him, email bsb5566@psu.edu.
Credits
- Author
- Ben Barker
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- Rich Schultz