Although the preseason schedule is complete and Week 1 of the 2024 season is just around the corner, teams certainly won't stop tinkering with their lineups as they prepare for the start of meaningful NFL action.

Even with the free-agent pool about to be overflowing following final roster cuts, trades are still a real possibility for many franchises as they represent one of the only ways to get a true impact talent at this point in the offseason. The trade market has been buzzing this week, with teams like the Chicago Bears executing multiple deals to bolster their roster before the opener.

More moves could soon follow as general managers work the phones and talk shop in the wake of submitting their 53-man rosters, many of which still have some glaring holes. With that in mind, here's one trade each team should propose before the 2024 season kicks off.

Arizona Cardinals: Trade for James Bradberry

Cardinals Receive: CB James Bradberry

Eagles Receive: 2026 seventh-round pick

The Arizona Cardinals have a clear need for more help at the cornerback position after the team ranked No. 31 in the league in scoring defense last year and gave up a concerning 32 touchdowns through the air.

While the organization did expend a second-round pick on Max Melton and inked Sean Murphy-Bunting in free agency, the depth behind these projected starters is rather shaky. Bringing in a proven cornerback like Bradberry could be exactly what the club needs to patch the hole.

Bradberry's value is in the tank after a dismal 2023 campaign, but his play in 2022 was elite. He finished that season having started all 17 games while racking up 44 tackles, three interceptions—including one returned for a touchdown—and 17 pass defenses.

Reuniting Bradberry with Jonathan Gannon—Arizona's current head coach who was working as the Eagles defensive coordinator during Bradberry's last strong campaign—could help the 31-year-old defensive back get back on track.

Considering Bradberry is a potential cut candidate for Philadelphia, the Cardinals shouldn't have to offer anything more than a seventh-round pick to get the deal done.

Atlanta Falcons: Trade for Ernest Jones IV

Falcons Receive: LB Ernest Jones IV

Rams Receive: 2025 fourth-round pick

The Atlanta Falcons have a glaring hole in the center of their defense. While Kaden Elliss was a solid signing for the organization last year and still has two years left on his current deal, the Falcons need to unearth another reliable middle linebacker to pair with the veteran.

Troy Andersen and Nate Landman are entering their third season in Atlanta, but both have been inconsistent to start their respective careers. Sending them to the bench as depth options and bringing in Ernest Jones IV via trade would be a massive boon for a Falcons squad with serious playoff aspirations this season.

According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, Jones was recently granted permission to seek a trade after he failed to reach a contract extension agreement with the Los Angeles Rams.

Jones has been a key figure for L.A.'s defense, amassing 320 tackles, 12 pass defenses, 5.5 sacks and three interceptions over his first three NFL seasons. He also wears the green dot as the team's defensive signal-caller, but the Rams don't appear to be willing to make Jones their first defensive draftee to receive a second contract from the club since Aaron Donald in 2018.

Atlanta should capitalize on this situation by shipping over a middle-round pick, a move that would solidify the linebacking corps and significantly bolster the defense overall.

Baltimore Ravens: Trade for Haason Reddick

Ravens Receive: Edge Haason Reddick

Jets Receive: 2026 fourth-round pick

After being a story for much of the offseason, Haason Reddick's contract standoff with the New York Jets still has no end in sight. The edge-rusher has made just one appearance at the team's facility since he was traded to Gang Green back in March and is continuing to hold out for a new deal.

Rather than risk the drama spilling into the regular season and causing an unnecessary distraction, the Jets could wash their hands of it and try to recoup some of the value they gave up for the edge-rusher.

While the Jets likely won't get the conditional third-rounder they coughed up to the Philadelphia Eagles, they could still net an early Day 3 pick from a franchise like the Baltimore Ravens. Baltimore lost Jadeveon Clowney in free agency after he ranked second on the team in sacks last year and needs a proven talent on the edge to pair with interior rusher Justin Madubuike.

With an aging Kyle Van Noy their current best option, a deal for Reddick would make plenty of sense. If the Ravens are willing to pay the 29-year-old—who has racked up 50.5 sacks over the last four seasons—they'll have a much more potent pass-rushing unit than initially expected for the 2024 campaign.

Buffalo Bills: Trade for Joey Bosa

Bills Receive: Edge Joey Bosa

Chargers Receive: 2025 third-round pick

The Buffalo Bills had a relatively quiet offseason, one that uncharacteristically saw them ship out more high-profile talent than they brought aboard. While the team still has Super Bowl aspirations with quarterback Josh Allen running the offense, the defense could use a bit more firepower—especially on the edge—to keep pace in what should be a fierce race for the AFC East crown.

The return of Von Miller will give the team a much-needed boost in the pass-rushing department, but acquiring another proven Pro Bowl edge defender could push this unit over the top. Joey Bosa would be an ideal target for a team in win-now mode and may benefit from a change of scenery following two injury-plagued campaigns with the Los Angeles Chargers.

Bosa has notably only suited up for 14 contests since the 2021 season wrapped up. While his various injuries are concerning, the four-time Pro Bowler has still been effective when he's on the field—tallying nine sacks in the games he did play over the last two years.

Considering the Chargers are entering a new era under head coach Jim Harbaugh, it could be time to get a fresh start on defense by dealing Bosa for a Day 2 pick. If the Bills are willing to cough that up and Bosa can stay healthy, they'll be much better equipped to take on the likes of Aaron Rodgers and Tua Tagovailoa during a grueling 2024 slate.

Carolina Panthers: Trade for Reddy Steward

Panthers Receive: CB Reddy Steward

Bears Receive: 2025 seventh-round pick

The Carolina Panthers are hoping to put a dismal 2023 season behind them and emerge as a competitive squad this coming season. That will be a difficult endeavor with the current crop of cornerback talent the team employs, even after trading for Michael Jackson in wake of Dane Jackson's hamstring injury.

With defensive back depth already a concern prior to losing a projected starter for a significant stretch, the Panthers must continue to shore up the position. Rather than sign an over-the-hill veteran following roster cuts, Carolina's brass should instead trade for a promising talent to develop during this young team's rebuilding stage.

Reddy Steward makes perfect sense as an emerging cornerback who will have a hard time seeing the field for his current squad. Steward joined the Bears this offseason as an undrafted rookie free agent out of Troy and has turned heads for his promising performances over the last few months.

As good as Steward has looked, the Bears boast an exceedingly deep secondary. It will be tough for the first-year corner to crack the rotation—even after an electrifying two-pick outing in the team's preseason finale—which could lead to a trade.

The Panthers should capitalize on the situation by offering a Day 3 pick to the Bears, compensation that could be remembered as a steal if Steward lives up to his potential and emerges as a key piece of Carolina's defense.

Chicago Bears: Trade for Joe Flacco

Bears Receive: QB Joe Flacco, 2026 seventh-round pick

Colts Receive: 2025 sixth-round pick

The Bears have been busy this week, acquiring both Darrell Taylor and Chris Williams to bolster their defensive front. With those weak points shored up, the team has the luxury of shuffling up the quarterback room and adding a veteran mentor for No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams.

Williams looks like a surefire starter for a club that has long hungered for a franchise quarterback. Even with the exciting preseason play of backup Tyson Bagent (who has become an intriguing trade candidate for these performances), the team won't have any controversies on its hands. Williams has been penned in as the starter since the earliest portions of the offseason and will likely remain as such for years to come.

Still, having a veteran backup on hand to assist in Williams' development could be a major boon for the Bears. Someone like Joe Flacco, who has Super Bowl experience and a wealth of experience to draw on from an NFL career that began all the way back in 2008, could expedite Williams' emergence as a superstar.

Flacco also proved he's still a steady hand when called into action, going 4-1 across five starts to take the Cleveland Browns to a playoff berth last year. The 39-year-old joined the Indianapolis Colts this offseason to back up Anthony Richardson, but the club also has fourth-year veteran Sam Ehlinger on hand for those duties.

Factor in the strong play of undrafted rookie Jason Bean, who was a breakout success during the preseason, and the Colts may just be willing to clear their QB logjam by trading Flacco to the Windy City.

Cincinnati Bengals: Trade for Julian Okwara

Bengals Receive: Edge Julian Okwara

Eagles Receive: 2025 seventh-round pick

The Cincinnati Bengals had their 2023 season derailed by an extended absence from quarterback Joe Burrow and can't afford to let injuries pile up again in 2024 if they want to get back to contending. The defense also needs to stay healthy and improve upon a down season, but those hopes took a blow when it was revealed that defensive end Myles Murphy will be out of the lineup for at least a month.

With Murphy out of the picture, the Bengals are thin on the edge. Even with Trey Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard locked in as quality starters, Cincinnati can't afford to put both pass-rushers on the field for every snap. The team must find at least one capable edge defender on the trade market to bolster the roster before Week 1.

Bleacher Report's Alex Ballentine highlighted Julian Okwara as a potential target for the Bengals. Okwara is buried deep in Philadelphia's outside linebacker rotation and isn't likely to see the field much barring injuries ahead of him this season.

Rather than let Okwara languish as a little-used option, the Eagles could clear up a roster spot and return a late-round pick for his services. While the fifth-year edge-rusher likely won't become a star in Cincinnati, he'll be able to contribute regularly to help the starters get a breather.

Cleveland Browns: Trade for Ja'Marr Chase

Browns receive: WR Ja'Marr Chase

Bengals receive: 2025 first-round pick, 2025 fourth-round pick, WR Amari Cooper

Despite making several trades to improve the receiver room in the last year, the Cleveland Browns still need some help in this department. With an aging Amari Cooper leading a group that also features a pair of polarizing pass-catchers in Elijah Moore and Jerry Jeudy, there's plenty of questions surrounding this unit heading into 2024.

While the Browns hoped to land a bona fide star in Brandon Aiyuk, the team was rebuffed by the San Francisco 49ers wideout and left to continue its search elsewhere. While it won't be easy to find a star-caliber receiver at this point, the Browns still have at least one option to go all-in for.

With the in-state rival Cincinnati Bengals struggling to come to terms on a contract extension for Ja'Marr Chase—who has been holding in during training camp while waiting for a new deal—the Browns could swoop in with a massive offer for the three-time Pro Bowler.

Chase certainly won't come cheap in terms of compensation to a divisional rival and will command an extension in the same neighborhood as the record-setting one Justin Jefferson received from the Minnesota Vikings, but he'd instantly transform Cleveland's receiver room into one of the league's best.

The Browns are no stranger to making these types of splashy moves—having executed a similar blockbuster trade to get Deshaun Watson before giving him a monster contract in 2021—and could shake up the final week of the offseason with another one.

Dallas Cowboys: Trade for Dameon Pierce

Cowboys Receive: RB Dameon Pierce

Texans Receive: 2025 sixth-round pick

The Dallas Cowboys left fans scratching their heads when they allowed Tony Pollard to walk as a free agent and failed to replace the incumbent starter with any notable draft selections or acquisitions on the open market outside of bringing back an aging Ezekiel Elliott.

While there is some hope that Elliott will have a resurgent campaign or Rico Dowdle will step up in his fourth NFL season, the Cowboys could add an insurance policy with upside to their backfield in the form of Dameon Pierce.

Pierce is only a year removed from emerging as one of the league's most promising young running backs. During his rookie season, Pierce racked up over 1,100 yards from scrimmage and scored five touchdowns as one of the few bright spots for a dismal Houston Texans squad that went just 3-13-1.

While Houston surprisingly emerged as a contender last year, Pierce failed to build on his impressive rookie showing and regressed significantly—finishing the 2023 season with a meager 416 yards and two scores on 145 totes. Whether this was a sophomore slump he can bounce back from or more indicative of his future remains to be seen, but the Cowboys should be willing to roll the dice on a resurgence.

At worst, Pierce should provide serviceable depth behind Elliott and Dowdle. At best, he could get his career back on track and emerge as Dallas' starter for the next several years. It's a worthwhile gamble for a Day 3 draft pick and could be a fantastic return on investment.

Denver Broncos: Trade for Richie Grant

Broncos Receive: S Richie Grant

Falcons Receive: 2025 sixth-round pick

The Denver Broncos should be on the lookout for serviceable talent at a cheap cost who can help this rebuilding squad contend again. Despite being hamstrung by the financial fallout from cutting Russell Wilson loose just two years into his five-year megadeal, the team has hope for the future with first-round rookie Bo Nix now under center and promising pieces at other key positions.

While Denver's offense could be fun to watch in 2024, the defense has some glaring holes in the secondary that need to be addressed. The most concerning is at the safety spot, where Brandon Jones and P.J. Locke are projected to start and little of note in terms of depth behind them.

The Broncos could make a run at Richie Grant to shore this weak point up. Grant, a second-round pick in 2021, has spent the last two seasons starting for the Atlanta Falcons but may soon be relegated to the bench following the emergence of DeMarcco Hellams. With Jessie Bates III also locked in as a surefire top safety for the Falcons, Grant could be expendable.

Given Grant's cheap, expiring contract—he's only owed a shade over $3 million in base salary on the final year of his rookie deal—and age (26), this move works as both a budget one-year rental and potential tryout for a new deal this coming spring.

Detroit Lions: Trade for Budda Baker

Lions Receive: S Budda Baker

Cardinals Receive: 2026 third-round pick

The Detroit Lions have one of the better top-to-bottom rosters in the league right now. While the team doesn't need to make any big moves to keep itself in championship contention, it could still push itself closer to a Lombardi Trophy by acquiring an elite veteran defensive back.

Budda Baker would be a fantastic fit in the Motor City not just for his immense skill, but also his cultural fit within the program head coach Dan Campbell has built. Baker has amassed 737 tackles, 7.5 sacks, seven interceptions, six forced fumbles and five fumble recoveries during his seven NFL seasons while emerging as a true locker room leader and tone-setter.

Baker has made it clear he's hoping to sign an extension as he heads into the final year of his current deal, one that could be his last with the Cardinals if they allow him to hit free agency. Rather than lose him for a compensatory draft pick at best, the team should instead be willing to listen to offers that would let the six-time Pro Bowler land with a contender willing to kick back a Day 2 pick for his services.

Detroit shouldn't hesitate to add another playmaker to this improving defense, and the secondary would see an instant boost from Baker's presence. Even within a safety group that currently includes Brian Branch, Ifeatu Melifonwu and Brandon Joseph, Baker would stick out for his immense talent and quickly lock down a starting job

Green Bay Packers: Trade for Darrick Forrest

Packers Receive: S Darrick Forrest

Commanders Receive: 2025 seventh-round pick

While the Green Bay Packers look relatively set at most of the critical positions and just plugged a massive hole at the No. 2 quarterback spot by trading for Malik Willis, they still could use some more defensive help.

The secondary seems particularly suspect after the preseason slate, which showed a clear lack of veteran assets at safety. Rookies Javon Bullard and Evan Williams are oozing potential and Anthony Johnson Jr., a seventh-rounder last year, should make the roster, but the team could benefit from another proven body to augment offseason acquisition Xavier McKinney.

Darrick Forrest, a starter in the Washington Commanders' secondary for a good portion of the 2022 campaign and the first five contests of 2023 before going down with injury, could be up for grabs in the hours leading up to final cuts.

With Washington looking particularly deep at safety following the acquisitions of Jeremy Chinn and Quan Martin, he could be a tough cut for the squad. Rather than lose the 2021 fifth-rounder for nothing, the Commanders may want to offer him to Green Bay for a late-round pick.

Forrest is a talented safety who possesses schematic versatility and produced well on the field in a major role prior to his injury. He'd provide the Packers with a great insurance option who can contribute on special teams as well.

Houston Texans: Trade for Roy Robertson-Harris

Texans Receive: DL Roy Robertson-Harris

Jaguars Receive: 2025 fifth-round pick

The Texans have done an incredible job taking advantage of C.J. Stroud's locked in rookie contract and crafted a formidable contender around their young quarterback. The addition of Danielle Hunter provided the team with a top-notch veteran edge-rusher to pair with Will Anderson Jr., but there is still some work to be done in the interior of the defensive trenches.

While Houston does have two decent defensive tackle starters in Foley Fatukasi and Mario Edwards Jr., backup options like Khalil Davis and Tim Settle Jr. aren't at a championship level. The team could dive into the free-agent market following roster cuts to unearth another depth piece or two, but it would arguably be better served swinging for the fences in a trade to get a high-end starter to round out the defense.

Roy Robertson-Harris would bring some veteran savvy and versatility to the teeth of Houston's defense. Although he's on the wrong side of 30, Robertson-Harris has started every game for the Jacksonville Jaguars over the last two seasons while recording 79 tackles and 6.5 sacks in that span.

The 6'5", 290-pound defensive lineman may be expendable in new defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen's system, an availability that Houston should capitalize on. He'd immediately slot in as a top option in the team's interior defensive line rotation and bring even more heat on opposing quarterbacks in 2024.

Indianapolis Colts: Trade for Miles Sanders

Colts Receive: RB Miles Sanders

Panthers Receive: 2025 seventh-round pick

The Indianapolis Colts have one of the NFL's best running backs in Jonathan Taylor, but injuries have limited the 2022 rushing champion to just 21 appearances over the last two seasons. The team desperately needs better depth behind the starter after Zack Moss departed in the offseason, as the current backups—headlined by Trey Sermon—are rather uninspiring.

Miles Sanders would be an ideal target for the Colts to make a run at following his abysmal tenure with the Carolina Panthers. After signing as a marquee free agent last year on the heels of a 1,269-yard, 11-touchdown rushing performance, Sanders went on to accumulate a meager 432 yards and one score on 129 totes as the No. 2 back for the downtrodden Panthers.

Things went from bad to worse for Sanders after the Panthers invested a second-round pick in Jonathon Brooks, who figures to contest Chuba Hubbard for starting duties this year. Rather than let Sanders languish as a highly-paid third option, Carolina's brass should be willing to trade him for little in return.

Reuniting Sanders with Shane Steichen—Philadelphia's offensive coordinator in 2022 and current Colts head coach—could resurrect the back's career and provide Indy with a legitimate one-two punch in the backfield.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Trade for Marshon Lattimore

Jaguars Receive: CB Marshon Lattimore

Saints Receive: 2025 third-round pick

The Jacksonville Jaguars are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 9-8 season, but they will have trouble keeping pace in the AFC without improving their cornerback room. It's the glaring weak point on this roster ahead of the 2024 season and could use an injection of star power via trade.

Marshon Lattimore appears to be the top available talent at the position, especially after a unique contract restructuring that makes a trade easier for the Saints to financially execute.

Now heading into his age-28 season, Lattimore's availability is his biggest question mark. He's missed 17 games since the start of the 2022 campaign and hasn't earned a Pro Bowl nod since 2021. Still, Lattimore has career numbers of 375 tackles, 86 pass defenses, 15 interceptions and five forced fumbles, making him an intriguing veteran option for any team in need of cornerback help.

If the Jaguars are going to contend with the litany of top-tier quarterbacks they're set to face in 2024 and potentially in the playoffs, there's no question that a healthy Lattimore would be an asset. Giving up a Day 2 pick may be a tough pill to swallow, but it's a move Jacksonville should make to shore up the biggest hole on the roster.

Kansas City Chiefs: Trade for Kendre Miller

Chiefs Receive: RB Kendre Miller

Saints receive: 2025 seventh-round pick

The Kansas City Chiefs are hoping to pull of an unprecedented Super Bowl three-peat this season, but even the back-to-back defending champions don't have a perfect roster. While the presence of superstar signal-caller Patrick Mahomes can hide deficiencies in the receiving corps, the team needs to bolster the backfield to field a more complete offense this season.

Isiah Pacheco has established himself as a quality starter for this organization and has played a key role in two championships since being drafted in the seventh round in 2022, but the depth behind him is concerning. Clyde Edwards-Helaire is still lingering around despite vastly underwhelming as a Day 1 draft pick, but the Chiefs need more to work with here in case of an injury to either of their top two ball-carriers.

There's a litany of undrafted free agents fighting for third-string duties, but Kansas City may want to dip into the trade market to find a better option. Making a run at Kendre Miller, a third-round pick last year whose career in New Orleans has gotten off to an ugly start due to injuries and ineffectiveness, would make plenty of sense.

Miller is currently battling for a roster spot in the Big Easy and doesn't appear to be a favorite of Dennis Allen. The head coach recently expressed frustration about the back's inability to pick up the Saints' offensive system due to injuries, opening the door for a potential trade.

Even with the hamstring injury that has kept him sidelined throughout training camp, Miller would represent a high-upside depth piece for the Chiefs. He could get up to speed while working behind Pacheco and CEH before potentially taking on a bigger role as the season progresses.

Las Vegas Raiders: Trade for Tyson Bagent

Raiders Receive: QB Tyson Bagent

Bears Receive: 2025 fifth-round pick

The Las Vegas Raiders were hoping to land a franchise quarterback this offseason but didn't come away with one in free agency or the draft. While Gardner Minshew II gives the team a slight upgrade over incumbent starter Aidan O'Connell, the club is still searching for a long-term solution under center.

Vegas could take an unconventional path to finding one by trading for a current backup right before the campaign kicks off. Tyson Bagent has been having a phenomenal preseason and has shown enough over the last few weeks to inspire confidence that he could be a starter in the NFL.

Unfortunately for Bagent, his chances of emerging as a QB1 in Chicago are exceedingly low due to the presence of Caleb Williams. With almost no chance of usurping the No. 1 overall pick on the depth chart, the Bears could instead capitalize on their backup's rapidly improving value by dealing Bagent to a desperate squad like the Raiders.

Bagent just capped off a strong stretch of exhibition play, completing 17-of-25 passes for 207 yards and two touchdowns over four games. He added 15 yards and a touchdown on three rushing attempts as well, showing off his dual-threat capabilities.

While Bagent still must prove he can perform at a high level when the games count—he went 2-2 in four starts last year while completing 65.7 percent of his passes for 859 yards and three touchdowns against six interceptions—his upside is worth a gamble for the Raiders.

Los Angeles Chargers: Trade for Bo Melton

Chargers Receive: WR Bo Melton

Packers Receive: 2025 seventh-round pick

The Los Angeles Chargers have arguably the weakest receiver room in the NFL right now, making it a sensible option to negotiate a trade with a team that boasts perhaps the league's deepest group of pass-catchers.

The Green Bay Packers have a loaded receiving corps, one that has talent well beyond their top four returning weapons from last year. The team will have a tough time figuring out who to keep on the roster from a group that includes Grant DuBose, Malik Heath, Bo Melton and Samori Toure.

Rather than cut one of these serviceable wideouts, the Packers should be making calls and finding takers. Melton should be of particular interest for the Chargers, who would easily find a spot on their 53-man roster as a WR4 well worthy of a late-Day 3 pick.

Melton, a 2022 seventh-round pick, saw his first NFL action last year—garnering 218 yards and a score on 16 receptions in five games. Those are respectable numbers, stats he could quickly build on by becoming a key part of an L.A. offense desperate for receiver help.

Los Angeles Rams: Trade for Jamin Davis

Rams Receive: LB Jamin Davis

Commanders Receive: 2025 sixth-round pick

The Los Angeles Rams may be parting ways with Ernest Jones IV after allowing him to seek a trade, opening the door for the team to bring in fresh blood at the linebacker position. While it won't be easy to find a player as talented as Jones, the Rams could try rejuvenating Jamin Davis' career as a replacement option.

Davis could be the next high-profile Ron Rivera-era draft pick to exit the Washington Commanders. The team recently dealt Jahan Dotson away to the Philadelphia Eagles and could follow that move up by sending Davis out before the 2024 campaign kicks off as well.

The 2021 first-rounder is still brimming with athleticism and upside, but never realized his talent over his first three professional seasons. Davis lost his linebacker duties this offseason and is slated to work on the edge if he remains in the nation's capital but may better serve Washington as a trade chip.

Davis could be revitalized in L.A.'s defensive system, one that has helped plenty of gifted athletes maximize their abilities since head coach Sean McVay took over. Although Davis may never become a rock-solid defender, there is potential for him to become a playmaker and useful asset—especially on a team that will be desperate for help in the middle if Jones gets dealt.

Miami Dolphins: Trade for Taylor Heinicke

Dolphins Receive: QB Taylor Heinicke

Falcons Receive: 2025 seventh-round pick

The Miami Dolphins finally got a healthy season out of Tua Tagovailoa, one that resulted in the quarterback leading the league in passing yards before earning a blockbuster extension this offseason. While the franchise is clearly committed to Tagovailoa now, the backup options behind the injury-prone starter aren't exactly ideal and could be improved.

Skylar Thompson just won the No. 2 job after beating Mike White out in the preseason, but the third-year pro left a lot to be desired when he was last seen in meaningful action as a rookie. During the 2022 campaign, Thompson appeared in seven games and only completed 57.1 percent of his throws for 534 yards with a single touchdown against three interceptions.

While he's developed a bit since then, the 27-year-old still didn't look like a great backup option during his preseason appearances. That could lead the Dolphins to make a move for Taylor Heinicke, who is the odd man out in Atlanta following the team's stunning decision to draft Michael Penix Jr. on Day 1 of the 2024 draft.

Heinicke struggled during his appearances for the Falcons last year, but he showed he could be a decent game manager during his stint with the Washington Commanders during the 2020-22 seasons. During that span, Heinicke went 12-11-1 as a starter and completed 64 percent of his throws for 5,415 yards and 33 touchdowns against 21 interceptions.

If the 'Phins want to bring in a quarterback who could keep the team afloat during a Tagovailoa absence, they shouldn't hesitate to demote Thompson to third-string duties and send over a late-round pick for Heinicke.

Minnesota Vikings: Trade for Caleb Farley

Vikings Receive: CB Caleb Farley

Titans Receive: 2025 seventh-round pick

Despite being on the cusp of a potential rebuild, the Minnesota Vikings have one of the league's oldest secondaries. With top corners Byron Murphy and Stephon Gilmore both aging and on expiring contracts, the Vikings could get ahead of a busy 2025 offseason by working a talented, young corner into the mix this year as a tryout for a bigger role next year.

After coming into the league as a high-profile first-round pick three years ago, Caleb Farley hasn't had an opportunity to capitalize on his immense talents due to a litany of injuries. The Tennessee Titans have only been able to put him on the field for 12 games in total and didn't see a minute of action from the corner last year.

Farley does appear to be on the path to getting healthy after a hamstring injury set back his 2024 preseason debut. He participated in the team's preseason finale this past weekend and is hoping to earn a roster spot, but the Titans could ship him out in exchange for a seventh-round pick to make the decision easier.

Minnesota would benefit from easing Farley into action and not putting a heavy burden on him after an extended absence. Giving him time to learn the system and work as a depth insurance option could set him up to play a bigger role in 2025 and beyond if the team elects to bring him back after a trial run this year.

New England Patriots: Trade for Larry Borom

Patriots Receive: OT Larry Borom

Bears Receive: 2025 sixth-round draft pick

The New England Patriots invested heavily into the quarterback position this offseason and now must make sure Drake Maye, the third overall pick, is well protected when he makes his NFL debut.

The Pats' makeshift offensive line has struggled throughout the preseason and has undergone several changes as new head coach Jerod Mayo works to find the most effective combination. The team may not be done tinkering just yet either, especially if a veteran like Larry Borom is available via trade.

After playing 92 percent of the offensive snaps in the 10 games he was available for as a rookie, Borom has fallen out of favor with the Bears in recent seasons. He was on the roster for 16 contests last year but only saw action on 39 percent of the snaps as a backup tackle. Considering Borom doesn't appear to have a major role in 2024 due to the presence of third-round rookie Kiran Amegadjie—who recently came off the non-football injury list—he could be expendable for the right price.

Borom shouldn't cost the Pats too much given his status on Chicago's roster bubble and recently suffered an ankle injury in the preseason finale. He's still an ideal short-term upgrade for a club with plenty of questions in the offensive trenches, especially one that can't afford to let its first-year signal-caller get battered.

New Orleans Saints: Trade for John Metchie III

Saints Receive: WR John Metchie III

Texans Receive: 2025 sixth-round pick

The New Orleans Saints have one of the NFL's best young wide receivers in Chris Olave. Rashid Shaheed and Bub Means have potential, but the team should be looking for more competition to see if one can become an elite No. 2 receiver.

With the Texans overflowing with receiver talent, a high-upside piece like John Metchie III could become available. Metchie was a second-round pick in 2022 but had the start of his NFL career derailed by an acute promyelocytic leukemia diagnosis. He made it back onto the field last year, catching 16 balls for 158 yards.

Even if Metchie makes Houston's roster, he will have a tough time reaching his ceiling and won't see many passes come his way in 2024. That would change in New Orleans, where the team could utilize him as a No. 3 or 4 receiver.

B/R's Jordan Schultz reported that multiple teams have been reaching out for Metchie. The Saints shouldn't hesitate to make a strong offer. Metchie would be well worth the price if he realizes his potential and adds a new dimension to the offense.

New York Giants: Trade for Pat Freiermuth

Giants Receive: TE Pat Freiermuth

Steelers Receive: 2026 fifth-round pick

The New York Giants were dealt a blow when tight end Darren Waller retired this offseason. Without the veteran in the lineup, Big Blue is set to lean on a pair of inexperienced options in Daniel Bellinger and rookie Theo Johnson.

While Bellinger has caught 55 balls for 523 yards and two scores over his first two NFL seasons and Johnson flashed some scoring chops at Penn State with seven touchdowns in 2023, there is a clear lack of pass-catching talent on this roster.

To address this issue, the G-Men should inquire about Pat Freiermuth's availability. The Steelers have yet to extend the tight end's contract, making him a potential free agent after the upcoming campaign.

While Freiermuth is coming off a down 2023 season—he notched a meager 32 receptions for 308 yards and two touchdowns—he's only a year removed from a breakout 63-catch, 732-yard campaign. He also found pay dirt seven times as a rookie in 2021 and could re-emerge as a regular scoring threat if he lands with the Giants.

Considering Pittsburgh has Darnell Washington waiting in the wings, getting a Day 3 pick in return for Freiermuth could help the team during a critical 2025 offseason.

New York Jets: Trade for Davante Adams

Jets receive: WR Davante Adams

Raiders receive: 2025 second-round pick, 2025 third-round pick

The New York Jets know they can't afford to squander what is left of Aaron Rodgers' career and their limited Super Bowl window. After losing the quarterback just a few snaps into the opener last year, it's more important than ever to go all-in and make the most out of his availability.

Reuniting Rodgers with Davante Adams, his No. 1 target for much of his tenure with the Green Bay Packers, would push the Jets over the edge and make their offense borderline unstoppable.

In 108 games with Rodgers on the field, Adams went off for an incredible 622 catches, 7,590 yards and 69 touchdowns. While the wideout regressed slightly last year during his second season with the Las Vegas Raiders, he proved he could still be a huge asset at the age of 31 by reeling in 103 balls for 1,144 yards and eight scores.

Although the Jets would likely have to give up some serious assets to land Adams, the picks they would be giving up would be more than worth it if it results in the team's first Lombardi Trophy in more than five decades.

Philadelphia Eagles: Trade for Desmond King II

Eagles Receive: CB Desmond King II

Texans Receive: 2025 seventh-round pick

Now that the Eagles found a much-needed No. 3 wide receiver by trading for Jahan Dotson, the club can shift focus to the other side of the ball with its next trade. Landing a veteran cornerback would help steady this young unit and provide a proven option to work alongside the two rookies Philadelphia selected in the 2024 draft.

While the Eagles won't want to give up much to bolster the secondary, trading a Day 3 pick to bring in Desmond King II could benefit the club more than the lost draft selection.

King is coming off a decent second stint with the Houston Texans, appearing in seven games while recording 47 tackles, two pass defenses and a sack. He can also assist on kick and punt returns, giving some extra value to this move. The 29-year-old could be expendable after the Texans drafted Kamari Lassiter in the second round.

King would offer veteran leadership and experience at the nickel cornerback spot, helping bring both Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean up to speed as they prepare for their first professional season.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Trade for Brandon Aiyuk

Steelers Receive: WR Brandon Aiyuk

49ers Receive: 2025 second-round pick, 2025 third-round pick

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been working relentlessly to overhaul what was an utterly anemic offense in 2023. With Russell Wilson now leading the offense, the team has been trying to find a second elite wideout to pair with the up-and-coming George Pickens.

Brandon Aiyuk has been the top trade target for Pittsburgh in recent weeks, with Michael Silver of the San Francisco Chronicle reporting that the organization put a pair of Day 2 picks on the table in exchange for the San Francisco 49ers receiver. While a deal has yet to materialize, it's still seemingly a possibility despite Week 1 drawing closer.

If the Steelers do land Aiyuk, they'll feature one of the league's most dangerous passing attacks. Aiyuk has developed into a legitimate star over the last two seasons, including in 2023 when he racked up 75 receptions for a career-high 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns while helping lead the 49ers to a Super Bowl appearance.

Getting that type of talent for the reasonable cost of both Day 2 draft picks and an extension that will likely ring up around $30 million per year will be well worth it for a Pittsburgh squad that direly needs a boost on offense.

San Francisco 49ers: Trade for Joe Tryon-Shoyinka

49ers Receive: Edge Joe Tryon-Shoyinka

Buccaneers Receive: 2025 sixth-round pick

The San Francisco 49ers arguably have more talent on their roster than any team in the league right now. While the team doesn't need to make any trades to reach the Super Bowl for the third time in six seasons, it could still benefit from bringing in another edge-rusher to bolster a unit dealing with several injuries.

With Leonard Floyd and Yetur Gross-Matos now dealing with knee injuries suffered in the preseason finale, the edge depth might be tested in the early weeks of the season. While San Francisco still has superstar defender Nick Bosa to lean on, getting a youthful talent like Joe Tryon-Shoyinka could reinforce this rotation and take it to another level.

Tryon-Shoyinka is entering the final year of his rookie deal after the Buccaneers declined his fifth-year option. He's recorded 13 sacks during his first three NFL seasons, but he doesn't have a prominent role after he was surpassed by Yaya Diaby on the depth chart last year. With rookie Chris Braswell now in the mix, Tryon-Shoyinka could be on his way out via trade sooner than later.

The 49ers don't have many roster spots or much cap space at their disposal and need to make the most of their limited resources in any trade. Getting a cheap one-year rental of Tryron-Shoyinka for just over $2 million could be worth it to help their edge rotation withstand another long playoff run.

Seattle Seahawks: Trade for Zaven Collins

Seahawks Receive: Edge Zaven Collins

Cardinals Receive: 2025 sixth-round pick

The Seattle Seahawks have been busy in trade talks, having both moved a player (Darrell Taylor) and brought one in (Trevis Gipson) in the last few days. The team could remain active ahead of Week 1 by further reinforcing its defense.

Zaven Collins has had a rough start to his career with the rival Arizona Cardinals, failing to develop into the versatile defender the team hoped for when it drafted him No. 16 overall in 2021. Without a fifth-year option pickup, Collins is now in a lame-duck year that will almost certainly be his last with the Cardinals unless he's traded.

Collins could turn over a new leaf in the Pacific Northwest under head coach Mike Macdonald. Macdonald served as the Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator last year and helped get the most out of an overlooked talent in Kyle Van Noy. He could pull off a similar reclamation project by installing Collins in a similar hybrid role.

For the low cost of a Day 3 pick, Collins would be worth the dice roll. Although he's failed to distinguish himself thus far, he's still just 25 years old and is brimming with athleticism and upside.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Trade for Ben Cleveland

Buccaneers Receive: OL Ben Cleveland

Ravens Receive: 2025 seventh-round pick

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers can't afford to go into 2024 with the underwhelming options they have in place along the interior of their offensive line. Ben Bredeson and Cody Mauch leave much to be desired as starting guards, but undrafted rookie Xavier Delgado and sixth-round rookie Elijah Klein are even more concerning as the top depth options.

If the Bucs are going to build on last year's promising playoff run, they need to acquire at least one proven offensive guard before the season opener. Making a run at Ben Cleveland should do the trick, especially as he fights to make the Baltimore Ravens roster.

The 2021 third-rounder looks like he'll be the main backup behind Andrew Vorhees, Tyler Linderbaum and Daniel Faalele in Charm City. It's a disappointing result for a player many expected to take over as a starter following Kevin Zeitler's departure, making a change of scenery an appealing option for all parties.

If the Bucs can get Cleveland cheap, they shouldn't hesitate to make the move and shore up the most glaring weak point on their roster with a high-upside talent who likely needs a new system to find real NFL success.

Tennessee Titans: Trade for Ricky Stromberg

Titans Receive: OL Ricky Stromberg, 2025 seventh-round pick

Commanders Receive: 2025 sixth-round pick

The Tennessee Titans are heading into a rebuilding season with low expectations. While the team still has to find out if Will Levis is a capable franchise quarterback, it won't be able to get an accurate look at the second-year signal-caller if the offensive line remains the mess it was in 2023.

Although Tennessee's brass has been steadily overhauling the offensive trenches—including investing a first-round pick in left tackle JC Latham—there is more work to be done here. Bringing in a versatile interior blocker like Ricky Stromberg would give the team more options when it comes to figuring out the best possible configuration for keeping Levis upright.

Stromberg was a third-round pick by the Washington Commanders last year but only saw the field for 26 offensive snaps across the four games he was active for due to both injuries and poor play. His hopes of becoming a starting center this year were dashed when the team inked Tyler Biadasz and Michael Deiter, making him a depth option at best for the guard positions in 2024.

Rather than have him languish on their bench, the Commanders could ship him off to the Titans to recoup some of the draft value they spent on the Arkansas product. He'll get more opportunities to realize his potential in the Music City during a low-stakes rebuilding year where much-needed offensive line development can be prioritized.

Washington Commanders: Trade for Kaiir Elam

Commanders Receive: CB Kaiir Elam

Bills Receive: 2025 sixth-round pick

The Washington Commanders still may need some help at the cornerback position after a trying 2023 season. Emmanuel Forbes and Benjamin St-Juste are attempting to bounce back from rough years, while additions Michael Davis and rookie Mike Sainristil are being tasked with taking on prominent new roles.

While Washington will be hoping the current crop of starters can step up and adequately fill this position, depth may still be an issue with Tariq Castro-Fields and Noah Igbinoghene as backups. Adding a high-upside, potential-laden contributor like Kaiir Elam could both address depth woes and set the organization up for the future.

Elam hasn't had a great start to his NFL career by any stretch. After the Bills traded up to get him in the 2022 draft, he's managed to appear in just 16 games while recording 55 tackles, four pass defenses and two interceptions. He's made some big plays in the contests he's suited up for, but for each of those he's been responsible for several more blown coverages and unsuccessful gambles.

A split could benefit both Elam and the Bills. While he'd likely remain a backup in Washington, he'd get a fresh start with a new coaching staff. He also still has two guaranteed seasons left on his rookie deal and a potential fifth-year option to pick up, giving the Commanders a potential long-term starter for a relatively low cost.