We’ve seen some action throughout Monday, and with the deadline getting closer, expect teams to get more aggressive. This list isn’t a prediction, nor is it what will happen; it’s just a list of names who I think “should” be traded before the deadline.

The fun part about this deadline is it feels like anyone can win the big game this season. There isn’t a clear “favorite” as we travel through November, but that doesn’t mean it’s set. A contender can arise from the ashes of the trade deadline. So, here are some players who should have a new team within the next 24 hours.

Jonathan Taylor – Indianapolis Colts

This is the one everyone expects, and it should happen. With the Colts heading into a clear rebuild, there is no reason to keep a running back who’s 27 years old. Taylor signed a contract extension before the season: a two-year, $44 million contract.

The money shouldn’t steer any team away from calling the Colts to make a deal for Taylor. He’s still got juice as a runner and is realistically the only reason this Colts offense has looked competent at times. The Colts reportedly want a first-round pick for Taylor. They probably won’t get that,but they shouldn’t turn down a second-round pick at all. This team needs draft capital; they aren’t close to having a Super Bowl-winning roster, and are entering quarterback purgatory.

Grover Stewart – Indianapolis Colts

So far in 2026, he’s up to half a sack and 28 total tackles for the year.

Jackson Powers-Johnson – Las Vegas Raiders

Powers-Johnson hasn’t given up a sack in the four games of action he’s seen this season and has the ability to play center or guard. He’s had his ups and downs in the league, but there are flashes of his dominance in the run game. While his pass protection has improved throughout his career, it’s clear he needs a change of scenery.

Las Vegas should explore the trade market for him if there are no plans for him to take snaps the rest of the season. It’s rare for a starting-caliber offensive lineman to be available at the trade deadline, making Powers-Johnson a clear candidate to target.

Budda Baker – Arizona Cardinals

Baker has a career-high 3.5 sacks this season and has three pass breakups this season. That just speaks to the versatility Baker can offer a secondary. He’ll fit into a team that needs defensive back help, especially one who can rotate down as a buzz defender. Arizona is a rebuilding team, and like the Colts, they need as many picks as possible. With Baker being 30 years old, he should be on the move to a contending team.

Riq Woolen – Philadelphia Eagles

There aren’t many good cornerback options on the market right now, but Woolen is the best one. The Eagles signed Woolen to a one-year contract this offseason on a “prove-it” type deal. He’s had his ups and downs as a corner this season, giving up four touchdowns but having four pass breakups.

At 6-foot-4 and 205 pounds, he offers contenders a clear starting corner who is comfortable manning up or playing zone coverage. While he’s more comfortable playing man, he still has the experience and understanding to operate in zone. With the Eagles clearly trying to “sell” players, Woolen should be on the move.

Will McDonald IV – New York Jets

Reports say the Jets won’t trade McDonald, but they absolutely should. He’s up to 19 total pressure and three sacks this season in 278 total snaps. His usage has been down this season, and McDonald has voiced his frustration with the team. Entering a fourth year, McDonald has shown power as an edge rusher and a more diverse pass-rushing arsenal this season after starting his career off slow.

We all know pass rush is key to NFL teams winning in January and February, so if a team comes calling, the Jets shouldn’t hesitate.

John Bates – Washington Commanders

Won’t spend too much time on this one, but with the NFL leaning into more 13 personnel, teams should be calling for Bates. He won’t offer much as a receiving threat, only having 27 yards this season, but for teams who lack the tight-end depth to run these heavier sets, it should make a call to Washington.

It shouldn’t cost much to pry Bates from the Commanders, so it’ll be interesting to see if anyone makes the call.

Khalil Mack – Los Angeles Chargers

All reports suggest the Chargers don’t want to make any moves at the deadline. But that isn’t the point of this article. Mack should absolutely be on the move; there is no reason the Chargers should hold onto him. The Chargers are 0-8, and this season is clearly in the rearview mirror. Mack still has juice in his game, especially with his power profile as a rusher.

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