While all eyes are on the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots as they prepare for Super Bowl LX, it’s important to remember that there are 30 other NFL teams already planning for next season. Even though they aren’t competing for the Lombardi Trophy this year, these teams are working hard to improve their rosters and position themselves for a Super Bowl run in 2026.
Trade rumors often intensify during Super Bowl week, and history shows that big moves can happen right before the big game. For example:
- In 2018, the Kansas City Chiefs traded quarterback Alex Smith to Washington just before Super Bowl LII.
- In 2021, the Los Angeles Rams acquired Matthew Stafford from the Detroit Lions right before Super Bowl LV.
With that in mind, fans and analysts are watching closely for any potential trades over the next week. Here’s a look at five players who could be on the move, and what their trades might cost.
1. DeAndre Brown – Wide Receiver
Brown has been linked to trade rumors for several seasons. His relationship with the Philadelphia Eagles has been rocky, highlighted by a sideline argument with coach Nick Sirianni during a playoff loss to the 49ers.
Why a trade makes sense:
- Brown was unhappy with his role in the offense this season.
- The Eagles may want to move on from the 29-year-old wide receiver with $29 million guaranteed for 2026.
- His age and contract make a first-round pick unlikely, though a third- and fifth-round pick could be feasible.
- Some mistakes in critical playoff games may also make teams hesitant to trade high draft capital for him.
Potential cost: Third-round pick + fifth-round pick
Teams interested could see Brown as a veteran talent who can still contribute, but they’ll weigh his cost and consistency carefully.
2. Kyler Murray – Quarterback
Kyler Murray’s time in Arizona seems to be ending. He was sidelined with a foot injury this season, and former head coach Jonathan Gannon indicated Murray might have been benched even if healthy.
Reasons a trade could happen:
- New coaching staff in Arizona may want a full roster reset.
- Teams could be looking for a veteran quarterback since the 2026 rookie QB class is weak.
- Murray’s $19.7 million salary for 2027 becomes fully guaranteed on March 15, making timing crucial.
- Comparisons to past trades, like Geno Smith for a third-round pick, suggest a second-round pick could be fair.
Potential cost: Second-round pick
A trade could benefit both Murray, who gets a fresh start, and the Cardinals, who can collect draft capital while retooling the roster.
3. J.J. Crosby – Pass Rusher
The Las Vegas Raiders are likely adding a top rookie quarterback in the 2026 draft, which may not fit with Crosby’s timeline. His recent shut-down and some friction with the franchise could push a trade.
Why Crosby could be moved:
- He is one of the league’s top pass rushers.
- Similar trades, like Micah Parsons, have commanded two first-round picks and a player.
- Crosby is 29 in 2026 and has $30 million in guarantees, making him a manageable investment.
- Teams may also negotiate an extension as part of a trade deal.
Potential cost: First-round pick + second-round pick
Teams likely interested: Dallas Cowboys, New England Patriots, San Francisco 49ers, Detroit Lions
Crosby’s elite skills make him a high-value trade target for teams needing a defensive game-changer.
4. Mac Jones – Quarterback
Brock Purdy is San Francisco’s starter, but Mac Jones impressed as a backup this season, going 5-3 with a 97.4 passer rating. With this year’s weak rookie QB class, veteran quarterbacks like Jones are likely to draw attention.
Why Jones could be traded:
- Only 27 years old with a low $3 million cap hit for 2026.
- Proven performance as a backup starter shows he can lead a team.
- Could help teams looking for a QB revival without spending high draft picks.
Potential cost: Third-round pick
Teams who may pursue him: Minnesota Vikings, Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Jets, Miami Dolphins
Jones represents a low-risk, high-reward option for teams seeking stability at quarterback.
5. Tyreek Hill – Wide Receiver
The Miami Dolphins are in rebuild mode with a new coaching staff. Hill doesn’t fit their timeline, making a trade or release likely.
Factors affecting a trade:
- Hill has a $51.1 million cap hit in 2026 with no guaranteed money remaining.
- He will need a new contract with any team that acquires him.
- Coming off a major knee injury in 2025, teams will require a full medical evaluation.
- If healthy, Hill remains a dynamic playmaker and could thrive in a new system.
Potential cost: Conditional late-round draft pick
Hill could be a game-changing addition for teams willing to take a calculated risk.
Why These Trades Matter
Even though the Seahawks and Patriots are focused on Super Bowl LX, the rest of the league is planning for 2026. Trades like these can:
- Strengthen teams for playoff runs next season.
- Provide draft capital for rebuilding rosters.
- Change the balance of power in the NFL, especially at quarterback or pass rusher positions.
These potential trades are already part of Breaking News and appear regularly in Daily news highlights, as fans and analysts track who might move before Super Bowl week and during the offseason.
