The 2026 NFL offseason is officially underway, and while free agency and contract extensions will dominate headlines, trade rumors are already heating up across the league.
With quarterback movement expected, defensive stars frustrated with losing, and contenders looking to make aggressive moves, this could be one of the most unpredictable trade markets in recent memory.
Here are the top NFL trade candidates for 2026, the situations to monitor, and potential landing spots.
1. Maxx Crosby – EDGE, Las Vegas Raiders
Why He Could Be Traded
Crosby is one of the league’s elite pass rushers, but frustration has reportedly grown after multiple losing seasons in Las Vegas. While the Raiders publicly insist they want him to stay, front offices always listen when multiple first-round picks are involved.
What Would It Take?
- At least two first-round picks
- Possibly additional Day 2 compensation
Likelihood: Moderate but not guaranteed.
The Raiders would prefer to build around Crosby. However, if a contender offers a massive haul, this situation could escalate quickly around the NFL Combine.
2. A.J. Brown – WR, Philadelphia Eagles
A. J. Brown
Philadelphia Eagles
Why He’s in Trade Rumors
Despite winning recently, Brown’s name continues to surface in speculation. Contract structure, locker room dynamics, and offensive philosophy changes could all factor into a surprise move.
Philadelphia GM Howie Roseman has never hesitated to make bold roster decisions, even involving star players.
Key Factor:
Dead cap implications are significant — but the Eagles are creative with restructures.
Likelihood: Dark horse but real possibility.
3. Kyler Murray – QB, Arizona Cardinals
Why He Could Move
Arizona faces a difficult financial decision. Murray’s contract includes fully guaranteed money in 2026, and the Cardinals may want a reset.
However, his contract makes a traditional trade complicated.
More Likely Scenario:
Post-June 1 release or creative cap maneuver.
Teams to Watch:
- QB-needy AFC teams
- Rebuilding NFC squads
Likelihood: High chance he’s on a new team in 2026.
4. Tua Tagovailoa – QB, Miami Dolphins
Tua Tagovailoa
Miami Dolphins
Miami may be entering a transition phase. With cap concerns and roster retooling possible, Tagovailoa’s contract becomes a focal point.
As with Murray, the financial structure complicates a trade.
Best Case Scenario:
A QB-needy team willing to absorb salary in exchange for draft compensation.
Likelihood: Trade unlikely — release more realistic.
5. Anthony Richardson – QB, Indianapolis Colts
Richardson’s future is uncertain after injuries and roster shifts. If Indianapolis commits long-term to another quarterback, a fresh start could benefit both sides.
Former top-five quarterbacks almost always attract interest.
Potential Fit:
- Teams willing to develop high-upside QBs
- Organizations with strong offensive infrastructure
Likelihood: Possible draft-weekend trade candidate.
6. Derek Carr – QB, New Orleans Saints
Carr’s situation depends heavily on the Saints’ long-term direction.
If New Orleans pivots toward youth, Carr becomes a logical trade option for teams seeking veteran stability.
Key Factor:
Carr holds significant leverage in approving destinations.
Likelihood: Depends on quarterback market demand.
Why the 2026 NFL Trade Market Could Explode
1. Quarterback Supply vs Demand
There are more teams needing quarterbacks than elite options available in free agency. That always drives trade conversations.
2. Cap Space Disparity
Some teams enter the offseason with massive cap space, while others must shed salary. This creates natural trade partners.
3. Contenders Pushing All-In
Teams close to a Super Bowl will consider bold moves, especially at:
- Pass rusher
- Wide receiver
- Offensive tackle
Teams Most Likely to Be Aggressive
While speculation remains fluid, several franchises are positioned to make big moves:
- Teams with $70M+ cap space
- Playoff teams that narrowly missed the Super Bowl
- Organizations with new head coaches reshaping rosters
Dark Horse Trade Candidates to Monitor
While not currently headlining rumors, keep an eye on:
- Star pass rushers on non-contending teams
- Veteran receivers on high salaries
- First-round quarterbacks entering Year 3
Trade speculation intensifies dramatically at the NFL Combine and again before the draft.
When Will NFL Trades Heat Up?
The key dates:
- NFL Combine (Late February) – Front offices gather and begin serious discussions.
- Start of Free Agency (March) – Market dynamics shift quickly.
- NFL Draft (April) – Surprise blockbuster deals often occur.
Expect rumors to escalate rapidly once general managers and agents are in the same building.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 NFL offseason could bring unexpected trades involving franchise quarterbacks, elite pass rushers, and high-profile receivers.
While not every rumor results in a deal, history shows that at least one major star changes teams every year.
As the combine approaches, the trade market will become clearer — and potentially chaotic.