Get ready for NFL free agency: surprising trade requests and potential moves await!
Kumar Shivam | Feb 13, 2025, 23:39 IST
( Image credit : TIL Creatives )
The NFL's offseason player movement buzz heats up before Super Bowl 59, with Myles Garrett and Cooper Kupp requesting trades. Key players like Matthew Stafford, Derek Carr, and Deebo Samuel could be on the move, reshaping team rosters. As the new league year approaches, expect high-profile trades and significant discussions as teams strategize for the upcoming season.
The NFL's obsession with player movement never takes a break, not even during the league’s biggest event. Just days before the Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl 59 win over the Kansas City Chiefs, players from teams not involved in the game managed to steal the spotlight. Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett publicly requested a trade, while Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp revealed the team’s plan to move him in the coming weeks. Although no deal can be finalized until the new league year begins on March 12, the anticipation of free agency is already sparking discussions among teams about potential trades.
Here are some notable players who could be on the move this offseason:
Matthew Stafford, QB, Los Angeles Rams
Four years after being traded to Los Angeles, Stafford could be poised to alter the NFL landscape once again if he’s moved. While the Rams were close to reaching the NFC title game, coach Sean McVay has stayed vague about the team’s future plans. Stafford is only guaranteed $4 million for next season, with none for 2026. If an agreement on a new contract can’t be reached, Stafford would likely have plenty of suitors given his proven ability to adapt quickly and the limited options at quarterback in this year’s draft.
Derek Carr, QB, New Orleans Saints
Carr has a no-trade clause, so the Saints have limited options in dealing him. However, Carr’s $30 million base salary becomes fully guaranteed on the third day of the new league year, and he’s already stated that he won’t accept a pay cut. New Orleans will need to decide whether they want to continue their rebuild or keep Carr for at least one more season. Despite the clause, Carr would generate interest elsewhere, meaning the Saints should still gauge the market.
Kirk Cousins, QB, Atlanta Falcons
Similar to Carr, Cousins has a no-trade clause, making a deal difficult. The Falcons have expressed they’re not in a hurry to part with their marquee free-agent signing from last year, as they plan to pivot to Michael Penix Jr. as their starting quarterback. However, releasing Cousins before June 1 would cost the team $65 million in dead cap, while a trade would save $37.5 million. With Cousins also due a $10 million roster bonus for 2026, Atlanta will need to determine its next steps in the coming month.
Garrett Wilson, WR, New York Jets
The Aaron Rodgers era is ending, and Wilson’s frustration with poor quarterback play seems to have taken its toll. Despite posting career highs with 1,104 yards and seven touchdowns, Wilson had a sideline outburst late in the season, raising questions about his future with the team. The new regime under Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey will have to decide whether to repair the relationship or trade him for significant draft capital. However, if Wilson is willing to stay, he would be a key offensive piece moving forward.
Cooper Kupp, WR, Los Angeles Rams
Kupp has already revealed the Rams’ plans to trade him, as well as his dissatisfaction with that decision. After missing 18 games due to injury over the last three seasons, Kupp’s $12.5 million base salary may make him a tough asset to move without the Rams absorbing some of the cost. However, even at 32 years old, Kupp could be a valuable secondary option for a contending team, given his ability to work the middle of the field and block effectively.
DK Metcalf, WR, Seattle Seahawks
If there’s anyone on the Seahawks' receiving corps at risk of being moved, it’s likely Tyler Lockett, who is 32 and has a significant cap hit. With Metcalf only having one year remaining on his deal, general manager John Schneider might be reluctant to invest in a pricey receiver extension, especially given coach Mike Macdonald’s focus on a run-heavy offense. At just 27, Metcalf could attract attention from several contenders in need of a top receiving threat.
Deebo Samuel, WR, San Francisco 49ers
While 49ers general manager John Lynch dismissed the idea of trading Samuel just a month ago, a split now seems more likely. Samuel requested a trade three years ago, and with a new financial landscape approaching—especially with Brock Purdy’s impending contract extension—the team may be better off moving on. With a solid group of established playmakers and younger talent like Ricky Pearsall and Jacob Cowing waiting in the wings, parting with Samuel might be the best choice for all involved.
Tee Higgins, WR, Cincinnati Bengals
Higgins’ status will likely depend on whether he is tagged for the second year in a row. If so, he would earn $26.17 million in 2024, far less than he could make in a long-term deal. If the Bengals can’t come to terms on an extension, they might look to trade him rather than lose him for a compensatory pick down the line.
Christian Kirk, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars
Kirk was rumored to be a trade candidate at last season’s deadline, but a season-ending collarbone injury in Week 8 changed the narrative. With a new coaching staff and the emergence of Brian Thomas Jr. as Trevor Lawrence’s go-to target, Kirk may no longer fit into Jacksonville’s plans, especially given his $24 million cap hit in 2025. Still, at 28 years old, Kirk could contribute to another team in need of a veteran presence.
Evan Engram, TE, Jacksonville Jaguars
Injuries limited Engram to just nine games in 2024, and with Brenton Strange’s solid performance in his absence, Engram’s future in Jacksonville is uncertain. With a looming $19.5 million cap hit, the Jaguars might be motivated to move on from Engram, which could save them $6 million.
Kyle Pitts, TE, Atlanta Falcons
Despite being a former No. 4 overall pick, Pitts has yet to live up to expectations since his strong rookie year. General manager Terry Fontenot acknowledged the team’s disappointment with his development. While the Falcons wouldn’t recoup much for Pitts after a season where he averaged only 35.4 yards per game, another team might be interested in unlocking his untapped potential.
Trey Hendrickson, DE, Cincinnati Bengals
Hendrickson requested a trade last offseason, but after leading the league with 17 ½ sacks in 2024, his frustration with the Bengals may reach its breaking point. With key players like Chase and possibly Higgins in line for extensions, the Bengals might look to move Hendrickson, especially if they can't secure a deal for a premier pass rusher.
Myles Garrett, DE, Cleveland Browns
Garrett’s public trade request has raised questions about his future with the Browns. With his potential contract demands and Cleveland’s precarious cap situation, it could be difficult to find a suitor willing to meet the Browns' asking price for a six-time Pro Bowl pass rusher. However, a trade involving Garrett would undoubtedly reshape the league’s contenders and could have major draft implications.
Micah Parsons, LB, Dallas Cowboys
The idea of trading Parsons would be shocking, but reports suggest the Cowboys have at least discussed the possibility of either paying him a massive extension or trading him for a king’s ransom. While team owner Jerry Jones has repeatedly shot down trade rumors, the option remains, though the most likely outcome is a long-term contract extension.
Denzel Ward + Greg Newsome II, CBs, Cleveland Browns
Garrett’s trade request may have ripple effects throughout Cleveland’s defense. Ward, a four-time Pro Bowler, could fetch significant draft capital if the Browns choose to move him. Newsome, who was a trade target last season, might also be moved if the team looks to make changes, though his nearly $13.4 million fifth-year option could be a hurdle for potential suitors.
Jaire Alexander, CB, Green Bay Packers
Given Alexander’s injury history and a hefty $25 million cap hit for 2025, a release seems likely for the two-time Pro Bowler. While the Packers are already thin at cornerback, it may make more sense for them to cut ties and free up cap space, but teams may still explore trade options if they’re willing to take a chance on his limited availability.
Riq Woolen, CB, Seattle Seahawks
Woolen’s rough season under coach Mike Macdonald may prompt the Seahawks to consider trading him, especially with a year left on his rookie deal. With Devon Witherspoon up for extension next year, Seattle could decide now is the right time to move on from Woolen, who had a strong debut season in 2022 with six interceptions and a Pro Bowl nod.
Here are some notable players who could be on the move this offseason:
Matthew Stafford, QB, Los Angeles Rams
Four years after being traded to Los Angeles, Stafford could be poised to alter the NFL landscape once again if he’s moved. While the Rams were close to reaching the NFC title game, coach Sean McVay has stayed vague about the team’s future plans. Stafford is only guaranteed $4 million for next season, with none for 2026. If an agreement on a new contract can’t be reached, Stafford would likely have plenty of suitors given his proven ability to adapt quickly and the limited options at quarterback in this year’s draft.
Derek Carr, QB, New Orleans Saints
Carr has a no-trade clause, so the Saints have limited options in dealing him. However, Carr’s $30 million base salary becomes fully guaranteed on the third day of the new league year, and he’s already stated that he won’t accept a pay cut. New Orleans will need to decide whether they want to continue their rebuild or keep Carr for at least one more season. Despite the clause, Carr would generate interest elsewhere, meaning the Saints should still gauge the market.
Kirk Cousins, QB, Atlanta Falcons
Similar to Carr, Cousins has a no-trade clause, making a deal difficult. The Falcons have expressed they’re not in a hurry to part with their marquee free-agent signing from last year, as they plan to pivot to Michael Penix Jr. as their starting quarterback. However, releasing Cousins before June 1 would cost the team $65 million in dead cap, while a trade would save $37.5 million. With Cousins also due a $10 million roster bonus for 2026, Atlanta will need to determine its next steps in the coming month.
Garrett Wilson, WR, New York Jets
The Aaron Rodgers era is ending, and Wilson’s frustration with poor quarterback play seems to have taken its toll. Despite posting career highs with 1,104 yards and seven touchdowns, Wilson had a sideline outburst late in the season, raising questions about his future with the team. The new regime under Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey will have to decide whether to repair the relationship or trade him for significant draft capital. However, if Wilson is willing to stay, he would be a key offensive piece moving forward.
Cooper Kupp, WR, Los Angeles Rams
Kupp has already revealed the Rams’ plans to trade him, as well as his dissatisfaction with that decision. After missing 18 games due to injury over the last three seasons, Kupp’s $12.5 million base salary may make him a tough asset to move without the Rams absorbing some of the cost. However, even at 32 years old, Kupp could be a valuable secondary option for a contending team, given his ability to work the middle of the field and block effectively.
DK Metcalf, WR, Seattle Seahawks
If there’s anyone on the Seahawks' receiving corps at risk of being moved, it’s likely Tyler Lockett, who is 32 and has a significant cap hit. With Metcalf only having one year remaining on his deal, general manager John Schneider might be reluctant to invest in a pricey receiver extension, especially given coach Mike Macdonald’s focus on a run-heavy offense. At just 27, Metcalf could attract attention from several contenders in need of a top receiving threat.
Deebo Samuel, WR, San Francisco 49ers
While 49ers general manager John Lynch dismissed the idea of trading Samuel just a month ago, a split now seems more likely. Samuel requested a trade three years ago, and with a new financial landscape approaching—especially with Brock Purdy’s impending contract extension—the team may be better off moving on. With a solid group of established playmakers and younger talent like Ricky Pearsall and Jacob Cowing waiting in the wings, parting with Samuel might be the best choice for all involved.
Tee Higgins, WR, Cincinnati Bengals
Higgins’ status will likely depend on whether he is tagged for the second year in a row. If so, he would earn $26.17 million in 2024, far less than he could make in a long-term deal. If the Bengals can’t come to terms on an extension, they might look to trade him rather than lose him for a compensatory pick down the line.
Christian Kirk, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars
Kirk was rumored to be a trade candidate at last season’s deadline, but a season-ending collarbone injury in Week 8 changed the narrative. With a new coaching staff and the emergence of Brian Thomas Jr. as Trevor Lawrence’s go-to target, Kirk may no longer fit into Jacksonville’s plans, especially given his $24 million cap hit in 2025. Still, at 28 years old, Kirk could contribute to another team in need of a veteran presence.
Evan Engram, TE, Jacksonville Jaguars
Injuries limited Engram to just nine games in 2024, and with Brenton Strange’s solid performance in his absence, Engram’s future in Jacksonville is uncertain. With a looming $19.5 million cap hit, the Jaguars might be motivated to move on from Engram, which could save them $6 million.
Kyle Pitts, TE, Atlanta Falcons
Despite being a former No. 4 overall pick, Pitts has yet to live up to expectations since his strong rookie year. General manager Terry Fontenot acknowledged the team’s disappointment with his development. While the Falcons wouldn’t recoup much for Pitts after a season where he averaged only 35.4 yards per game, another team might be interested in unlocking his untapped potential.
Trey Hendrickson, DE, Cincinnati Bengals
Hendrickson requested a trade last offseason, but after leading the league with 17 ½ sacks in 2024, his frustration with the Bengals may reach its breaking point. With key players like Chase and possibly Higgins in line for extensions, the Bengals might look to move Hendrickson, especially if they can't secure a deal for a premier pass rusher.
Myles Garrett, DE, Cleveland Browns
Garrett’s public trade request has raised questions about his future with the Browns. With his potential contract demands and Cleveland’s precarious cap situation, it could be difficult to find a suitor willing to meet the Browns' asking price for a six-time Pro Bowl pass rusher. However, a trade involving Garrett would undoubtedly reshape the league’s contenders and could have major draft implications.
Micah Parsons, LB, Dallas Cowboys
The idea of trading Parsons would be shocking, but reports suggest the Cowboys have at least discussed the possibility of either paying him a massive extension or trading him for a king’s ransom. While team owner Jerry Jones has repeatedly shot down trade rumors, the option remains, though the most likely outcome is a long-term contract extension.
Denzel Ward + Greg Newsome II, CBs, Cleveland Browns
Garrett’s trade request may have ripple effects throughout Cleveland’s defense. Ward, a four-time Pro Bowler, could fetch significant draft capital if the Browns choose to move him. Newsome, who was a trade target last season, might also be moved if the team looks to make changes, though his nearly $13.4 million fifth-year option could be a hurdle for potential suitors.
Jaire Alexander, CB, Green Bay Packers
Given Alexander’s injury history and a hefty $25 million cap hit for 2025, a release seems likely for the two-time Pro Bowler. While the Packers are already thin at cornerback, it may make more sense for them to cut ties and free up cap space, but teams may still explore trade options if they’re willing to take a chance on his limited availability.
Riq Woolen, CB, Seattle Seahawks
Woolen’s rough season under coach Mike Macdonald may prompt the Seahawks to consider trading him, especially with a year left on his rookie deal. With Devon Witherspoon up for extension next year, Seattle could decide now is the right time to move on from Woolen, who had a strong debut season in 2022 with six interceptions and a Pro Bowl nod.