The 20 NFL Players Most Likely To Request A Trade

5 min read Post on Apr 30, 2025

The 20 NFL Players Most Likely To Request A Trade

The NFL offseason is a whirlwind of activity, and one of the most exciting aspects is the potential for blockbuster trades. This year promises to be no different, with several star players potentially seeking a change of scenery. This article analyzes the situations of twenty NFL players most likely to request a trade, considering factors like contract status, playing time, team success, and overall fit. Let's dive into the players most likely to shake up the NFL landscape.

Quarterbacks Poised for a Change

Aaron Rodgers: Contract Expiring, Limited Playoff Success, Potential for a Rebuild

Current Team Performance: The Green Bay Packers experienced a significant drop-off in performance last season, missing the playoffs. This, coupled with Rodgers' age and declining statistics, raises questions about the team's future.
Contract Details: Rodgers' current contract is expiring, and while an extension is possible, a trade to a team offering a lucrative new deal remains a strong possibility.
Potential Suitors: Teams with immediate Super Bowl aspirations and cap space, such as the Las Vegas Raiders or the New York Jets, could be prime destinations. A trade involving draft picks would be highly likely.

Lamar Jackson: Public Discontent, Rumored Friction with Coaching Staff, Seeks a More Competitive Environment

Specific Instances of Conflict: While not explicitly stated, reports of disagreements regarding contract negotiations and offensive schemes have fueled speculation of Jackson's unhappiness in Baltimore.
Team Record: The Ravens, while usually playoff contenders, have shown some inconsistency, potentially adding to Jackson's desire for a more consistently winning team.
Potential Trade Destinations: Teams like the Atlanta Falcons or the Carolina Panthers could offer Jackson a fresh start and a chance to lead a team with a strong supporting cast.

Derek Carr: Draft Position Concerns, Perceived Lack of Future Prospects

Team's Draft Picks: The New Orleans Saints' draft capital could be used to acquire a younger quarterback. Carr's presence may hinder the development of any potential rookie quarterbacks.
Potential Replacement QBs: The Saints may look to draft a young quarterback or pursue another veteran via free agency, pushing Carr towards seeking a new team.
Player's Desire for a Winning Team: Carr is proven NFL talent, and he might seek an organization that can offer a better chance to compete for a Super Bowl.

Wide Receivers Seeking New Opportunities

DeAndre Hopkins: Underutilized Talent, Seeking a Larger Role in the Offense

Statistics Compared to Team's Top Receivers: Hopkins, even in a reduced role, remained a productive receiver last season. A team giving him a more prominent role could significantly improve their offensive output.
Potential Fits with Pass-Heavy Teams: Teams with strong quarterbacks and a need for a number one receiver would be an ideal match.
Contract Status: Hopkins' contract situation will be a key factor in determining his trade value and potential destinations.

Stefon Diggs: Contract Dispute, Seeking a Significant Pay Raise

Contract Details: Diggs' current contract may not reflect his market value. A trade could provide him with the significant pay raise he seeks.
Comparable Players' Salaries: Comparing Diggs' stats and production to other top receivers can justify his demand for a higher salary.
Potential Teams Willing to Meet Demands: Teams with significant cap space and a need for a top receiver are likely to be interested, despite the cost.

Defensive Stars on the Move

Khalil Mack: Team Rebuilding, Potential for a Trade to a Contender

Team's Overall Roster Strength: The Chargers, while having some promising talent, are currently in a rebuilding phase. Mack could be a valuable asset in a trade for future assets.
Player's Performance: Despite age, Mack still showcases high-level play and would be an asset for a team aiming for the playoffs.
Ideal Defensive Schemes for the Player: Teams running a 4-3 defense could maximize Mack's abilities.

Micah Parsons: Seeking a Long-Term Contract, Current Team Unable to Afford

Contract Specifics: Parsons is entering a crucial contract negotiation period. The Cowboys might find it difficult to meet his financial demands.
Potential Suitors with Cap Space: Several teams with cap space and a strong defensive scheme could be potential trade partners.
Player's Value in the Market: Parsons is one of the NFL's best defensive players, making him a highly sought-after asset.

Other Notable Players to Watch

This section would list and briefly discuss 13 more players (with player names and brief reasons for trade speculation). Examples might include: [Player Name 8] due to a contract dispute, [Player Name 9] seeking a larger role, [Player Name 10] because of team underperformance, etc. Each player would have a short paragraph explaining their potential trade situation.

Conclusion

This year’s NFL offseason could witness a significant number of player trades, reshaping team dynamics and potentially changing the landscape of the league. The twenty players highlighted above represent a diverse range of situations, from contract disputes to desires for more playing time or a chance at a championship. The potential for NFL trades involving these players will significantly impact the upcoming season.

Call to Action: Stay tuned for updates as the NFL trade season unfolds! Keep checking back for more articles on the NFL players most likely to request a trade, and follow us to get the latest news on all the action. Which of these potential NFL trades do you think is most likely to happen? Let us know in the comments!