NFL Trade Deadline: 5 Deals That Need to Happen Before the 2023 Season
With the 2023 NFL season approaching, teams are gearing up for another run at glory, and some are looking to upgrade their rosters through trades. While most of the blockbuster deals have already happened during the offseason, there are still a few moves that could make a significant impact on the upcoming campaign. Here are five NFL trades that should still happen before the 2023 NFL season kicks off.
Deshaun Watson to the Miami Dolphins
Despite facing serious legal issues and uncertainty about his future availability, Deshaun Watson remains one of the most talented quarterbacks in the league. The Houston Texans have been hesitant to trade him so far, but if they decide to move on, the Miami Dolphins could be a perfect fit. With Tua Tagovailoa struggling to assert himself as the franchise QB, the Dolphins could use a proven playmaker like Watson to lead their offense.
Aaron Rodgers to the Denver Broncos
The Aaron Rodgers saga continues, and while the Green Bay Packers are still hopeful to retain him, the Denver Broncos could offer a tempting package to acquire the reigning MVP. The Broncos have a solid defense and a promising group of skill players, but lack a proven quarterback to take them to the next level. If Rodgers decides to leave Green Bay, Denver would be an attractive destination for the future Hall of Famer.
Xavier Rhodes to the New Orleans Saints
The Indianapolis Colts are loaded with talent at the cornerback position, and could afford to part ways with Xavier Rhodes to acquire draft capital. Meanwhile, the New Orleans Saints are in desperate need of help at cornerback after losing Janoris Jenkins and Marshon Lattimore. Rhodes, a former Pro Bowler, could provide an instant upgrade to their secondary and help them compete in a tough NFC South division.
Melvin Ingram to the Baltimore Ravens
Melvin Ingram is a veteran pass-rusher who can still make an impact on defense, but the Los Angeles Chargers are unlikely to re-sign him after drafting Joey Bosa’s younger brother, Nick. The Baltimore Ravens, who lost Matt Judon and Yannick Ngakoue in free agency, could use some edge-rushing help, and Ingram would be a great addition to their 3-4 defense.
Zach Ertz to the Buffalo Bills
Zach Ertz is coming off a disappointing season with the Philadelphia Eagles, but he remains a reliable pass-catching tight end with a championship pedigree. The Buffalo Bills have a high-powered offense led by Josh Allen, but lack a dominant tight end threat. Ertz could provide a safety net for Allen and a valuable red-zone target, while also mentoring young tight end Dawson Knox.
While these trades are not guaranteed to happen, they are all realistic scenarios that could benefit both sides. As the NFL season approaches, keep an eye out for potential moves that could shift the balance of power in the league.
