The NFL’s wide receiver market has become increasingly active as the Nov. 5 trade deadline approaches. The New York Jets made headlines early this week by trading for Davante Adams, while the Buffalo Bills followed suit by acquiring Amari Cooper. As the deadline looms, teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to be aggressive in their pursuit of additional receiving talent to bolster their rosters.
Pittsburgh had its sights set on Brandon Aiyuk earlier in the offseason, but their hopes were dashed when he signed an extension with the San Francisco 49ers. The Steelers also expressed interest in Adams, but he ultimately chose the Jets and a reunion with quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Pittsburgh remains optimistic about Russell Wilson’s resurgence and believes he can lead Arthur Smith’s offense effectively, enhancing their vertical passing attack while complementing their already strong defense.
Meanwhile, the Kansas City Chiefs are relying on the continued production of Travis Kelce and JuJu Smith-Schuster, especially after injuries sidelined Hollywood Brown and Rashee Rice for the season. Despite the potential availability of Marquez Valdes-Scantling, there is little interest in bringing him back to Kansas City.
The Chiefs are evaluating their receiving options on a week-to-week basis, knowing that integrating a new receiver into Andy Reid’s intricate offensive system would take time and trust, especially for quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
The Jets’ acquisition of Adams made Mike Williams expendable, especially after a game where he ran a costly wrong route that led to an interception. Williams, who signed a one-year deal while recovering from ACL surgery, could be traded for a modest return, as most of his contract has already been paid by the Jets.
In Carolina, communication with receiver Diontae Johnson has improved, and although the Panthers are not actively shopping him, his productive performance could attract interest from other teams looking to strengthen their receiving corps.
As the trade deadline approaches, several other teams may explore potential trades. The Cleveland Browns, despite their last-place standing in the AFC North, might consider trading Elijah Moore, while the Tennessee Titans are hesitant to part with DeAndre Hopkins, valuing his experience as they assess quarterback Will Levis’s growth.
The struggling Jacksonville Jaguars could trade assets like tight end Evan Engram or receiver Christian Kirk, while the New Orleans Saints are more likely to sell than buy. Additionally, players like Tyquan Thornton and Darius Slayton could be on the move as teams like the Washington Commanders quietly explore potential additions to their rosters.
