The NFL offseason kicked off with a pair of massive post-June 1 transactions that saw Myles Garrett head to the Rams and A.J. Brown join the Patriots. Since those blockbuster moves, the trade market has fallen into a lull, with only Wanya Morris joining the Falcons in the interim. However, the period between now and the start of the 2026 season is ripe for further movement as teams evaluate their rosters during training camp.
Several high-profile names have been linked to trade speculation throughout the spring and summer. As the grind of practice begins, roster vacancies created by injuries or escalating contract standoffs could provide the necessary spark to finalize these deals. With the regular season on the horizon, several organizations may be ready to pull the trigger on significant personnel changes.
The following eight players are high-probability candidates to be wearing different jerseys by the time Week 1 arrives.
The Fractured Relationship Between Brandon Aiyuk and the San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers have reached a public impasse with Brandon Aiyuk, suggesting his tenure in the Bay Area has reached its conclusion. While Aiyuk was once viewed as a rising cornerstone of the offense after securing a massive $120 million extension, the situation has soured significantly. A combination of a serious knee injury, the team’s decision to void his 2026 guarantees, and Aiyuk’s own vocal frustrations on social media has led to a breakdown in communication.
Aiyuk has expressed a clear desire to reunite with former college teammate Jayden Daniels in Washington. However, his current market value is at an all-time low due to concerns over his recent performance and public conduct. While San Francisco could choose to release him, General Manager John Lynch remains in a position to hold out for a trade partner before the season begins.
The Declining Market for Colts Quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr.
Only three years removed from being the fourth overall pick, Anthony Richardson Sr. finds himself in a difficult position with the Indianapolis Colts. His career has been hampered by significant injuries and limited starting experience, leading to a sharp decline in his trade value. Although the Colts permitted him to explore trade options earlier this year, no suitors emerged to take on the young passer.
The Colts’ commitment to Daniel Jones as their primary starter, evidenced by Jones’ contract extension while Richardson’s fifth-year option was declined, signals that Richardson’s future in Indianapolis is limited to a backup role. While he remains a dynamic athlete, the Colts may prefer to recoup some value through a trade rather than letting him enter free agency without compensation after the 2026 season.
Kayshon Boutte Faces a Crowded Depth Chart in New England
The New England Patriots significantly overhauled their receiving corps this offseason, leaving Kayshon Boutte in a difficult spot. The acquisition of A.J. Brown via trade and the signing of Romeo Doubs have pushed Boutte down the pecking order. With the Patriots effectively replacing and upgrading their perimeter talent, Boutte has reportedly expressed interest in finding a new home where he can see more consistent playing time.
Boutte has proven to be a reliable contributor over the last two seasons, but he no longer fits into New England’s immediate plans for a rebuilt offense. Given the team’s needs in other areas, such as the offensive line and edge rusher depth, the Patriots might use Boutte as a trade chip to address those deficiencies before the preseason ends.
Evaluating Josh Sweat’s Trade Potential with the Arizona Cardinals
There has been a great deal of speculation regarding Josh Sweat’s status with the Arizona Cardinals. While some reports suggest the team is moving away from trade talks, others indicate that teams like the Green Bay Packers remain interested. This uncertainty could be a tactical move by the Cardinals to increase the asking price for the productive edge rusher as training camp progresses.
Sweat delivered a 12-sack performance in his first year with Arizona, but he is now 29 and playing for a new coaching staff that didn’t bring him in. With the Cardinals currently in the middle of a comprehensive rebuild and unlikely to contend in the near future, moving a veteran asset like Sweat for draft capital or younger talent makes strategic sense for the front office.
Kayvon Thibodeaux and the Defensive Overhaul in New York
Despite public denials from General Manager Joe Schoen regarding trade talks, Kayvon Thibodeaux’s long-term future with the New York Giants remains a topic of discussion. The Giants have invested heavily in the edge rusher position recently, drafting Arvell Reese and Abdul Carter while maintaining Brian Burns on a lucrative contract. This influx of talent suggests Thibodeaux could be the odd man out in the team’s defensive rotation.
Thibodeaux has struggled with injuries over the past two seasons, and his statistical production has dipped since his breakout year in 2023. Entering the final year of his deal, the Giants must decide whether to let him play out the season or capitalize on his remaining trade value. If a deal isn’t reached this summer, he will likely be a names to watch as the trade deadline nears.
Maxx Crosby’s Injury Recovery and Possible Raiders Departure
The trade that nearly sent Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens earlier this year was derailed by concerns over his physical condition, specifically his recovery from meniscus surgery. As Crosby prepares to return to the field during the Raiders’ training camp, his market value is expected to rise once again. A healthy Crosby remains one of the premier defensive talents in the league.
Tension between Crosby and the Raiders’ organization reportedly developed over the management of his injury last season. If the Raiders are still looking to accumulate draft picks for their rebuilding project, they may revisit trade discussions if a team is willing to offer significant compensation, potentially including multiple first-round selections.
The Shifting Backfield Dynamics for Alvin Kamara and the Saints
Alvin Kamara has been a central figure in the New Orleans Saints’ offense for years, but the organization appears to be transitioning toward a new era. The signing of Travis Etienne Jr. and a subsequent restructuring of Kamara’s contract are strong indicators that a change is coming. Kamara now finds himself with a lower salary and a potentially reduced role compared to the newly acquired Etienne.
By adjusting Kamara’s contract, the Saints have made it financially feasible for other teams to acquire the veteran running back. With General Manager Mickey Loomis keeping all options on the table, it is entirely possible that Kamara is moved to a contender before the season opener, allowing the Saints to fully commit to their younger backfield options.
James Conner’s Role Diminishing Amidst Cardinals Youth Movement
James Conner’s time as the lead back for the Arizona Cardinals may be coming to a close. After a season-ending injury last year, Conner returns to a backfield that has been bolstered by the addition of high draft pick Jeremiyah Love and free agent Tyler Allgeier. At 31, Conner is a veteran on an expiring contract, making him a prime candidate for a trade as the team prioritizes its younger players.
Arizona’s decision to rework Conner’s contract to significantly lower his cap hit makes him an attractive target for teams in need of a proven, veteran ballcarrier. Once he demonstrates his health during training camp, he could become a valuable addition for a team looking for a reliable primary or secondary rushing option.
Summary of Preseason Trade Outlook
As the NFL moves closer to the regular season, the trade market is expected to reactivate. Whether driven by the need for veteran leadership, the desire for draft capital in a rebuild, or the resolution of contract disputes, these eight players represent the most likely candidates for a change of scenery. Training camp performances and health statuses will ultimately dictate how quickly these potential moves materialize before Week 1.
