NFL Trade Deadline Ranking: 18 Deals Shape Teams’ Playoff Push
NFL teams completed 18 in-season trades before the deadline, making it the fourth-most active deadline in league history. Kirk Cousins joined Minnesota, while Jeffery Simmons has already helped Chicago win four straight games. The moves range from immediate upgrades to longer-term bets on roster building.
The NFL trade deadline produced 18 in-season deals, giving the league its fourth-most active deadline, as teams made moves for postseason runs and rebuilds. The nfl trade deadline ranking puts Kirk Cousins’ move to Minnesota and Jeffery Simmons’ impact in Chicago among the most consequential.
The deadline passed at 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday. Some trades already have a track record: Simmons helped the Bears build a four-game winning streak, while injuries have complicated the early returns for Quenton Nelson in Seattle and Joey Porter Jr. in Dallas.
Quarterback help for Minnesota
Cousins gives the Vikings a potential boost at quarterback. He is described as being on pace to challenge for his first 40-touchdown season, and his familiarity with Minnesota’s offense could help him step into the lineup quickly.
The move also could benefit Justin Jefferson. Minnesota’s defense is described as the league’s best, while the offense had been caught in tight, low-scoring games during the first nine weeks.
The Raiders received a 2027 third-round draft pick for Cousins. The transaction gives Minnesota a veteran quarterback for its push while adding a future selection for Las Vegas.
Simmons has already made an impact
Chicago’s acquisition of Simmons stands out because his effect has already shown up on the field. The three-time All-Pro disrupted offenses in his first two games with the Bears and played a key role in their win over the Seahawks.
He also was among the few bright spots in Chicago’s five-turnover game on “Sunday Night Football” in Week 9. The deal has strengthened the defense as Caleb Williams leads the team’s offense.
Jacksonville pays for defensive upgrades
The Jaguars traded a 2027 first-round pick and a 2029 second-round pick to the Eagles for Jordan Davis. Jacksonville made the move after DaVon Hamilton suffered a torn quad that ruled him out for the year.
Davis had signed a contract extension with the Eagles earlier this year and is under team control for three years beyond this season. The deal gives Jacksonville an immediate replacement at defensive tackle and a longer-term piece.
Jacksonville also acquired Jessie Bates III. The safety could have a larger defensive impact than Davis in 2026, but his contract is in its final year, making his stay with the Jaguars less certain.
Across the league, the 18 trades reflected different priorities: contenders added help for the present, while other teams collected draft picks or moved players as they reassessed their rosters.
