20 NFL Players Who Should Demand A Trade This Offseason

5 min read Post on Apr 30, 2025

20 NFL Players Who Should Demand A Trade This Offseason

The NFL offseason is a time of intense speculation, player movement, and franchise-altering decisions. This year promises to be no different, with a significant number of players potentially looking for a fresh start. This article identifies 20 NFL players who, based on performance, contract situations, and team dynamics, should strongly consider demanding a trade this offseason. We'll delve into the specific reasons behind each potential move, analyzing their current situations and prospective landing spots.

Quarterbacks Facing Uncertain Futures (Keyword: NFL Quarterback Trades)

The NFL quarterback market is always volatile, but this year feels particularly charged. Several signal-callers find themselves in situations ripe for a trade demand. Here are a few examples:

Player 1: Lamar Jackson – Baltimore Ravens

Lamar Jackson's contract situation has dominated headlines. While supremely talented, his lack of a long-term deal and apparent frustrations with the Ravens' offensive approach could lead him to seek a trade.

Stalled Contract Negotiations: The Ravens and Jackson have yet to agree on a long-term contract, leaving a cloud of uncertainty hanging over his future.
Offensive Line Concerns: Baltimore's offensive line has struggled in recent years, leaving Jackson vulnerable to sacks and injuries.
Lack of Playoff Success: Despite his individual brilliance, the Ravens haven't reached the Super Bowl with Jackson at the helm, fueling speculation about a change of scenery.

Player 2: Derek Carr – New Orleans Saints

After a tumultuous season with the Raiders, Derek Carr found himself released and picked up by the Saints. However, if the team isn't convinced he's their long-term solution, a trade may be on the table.

Transitional Season: The Saints might view Carr as a bridge quarterback, meaning a trade for a younger prospect could be on the horizon.
Offensive Scheme Fit: Whether Carr thrives in the Saints' offensive scheme remains to be seen. A poor fit could lead to trade discussions.
Competition for the Starting Role: The emergence of a young quarterback could push Carr to seek more playing time elsewhere.

Player 3: Aaron Rodgers – Green Bay Packers

Although having just signed a contract extension, Rodgers' future remains unclear. While he stated his intentions to stay in Green Bay, he could request a trade if he feels the team's direction is not aligned with his goals for a Super Bowl run.

Team Rebuild: The Packers are in a transitional phase, potentially affecting Rodgers' desire to contend for a championship.
Offensive Changes: Significant changes to the offensive scheme or personnel could influence Rodgers' desire to remain in Green Bay.
Personal Preference: Rodgers is known for his desire to be in a winning situation. If he believes that's unlikely in Green Bay, a trade could happen.

Wide Receivers Seeking Increased Opportunities (Keyword: NFL Wide Receiver Trades)

Several talented wide receivers could seek trades to enhance their fantasy football value and career prospects.

Player 5: [Insert Player Name] – [Team Name]

[Reasons for seeking a trade: Detail specific reasons using bullet points. Examples include limited targets due to a crowded receiving corps, desire to be the number one receiver, dissatisfaction with the offensive system, contract negotiations.]

Low Target Share
Lack of deep ball opportunities
Poor quarterback play

[Repeat this structure for 3-4 wide receivers, incorporating relevant keywords like passing game, receiving yards, fantasy football.]

Running Backs Facing Contract Disputes or Diminished Roles (Keyword: NFL Running Back Trades)

The running back position is always fluid in the NFL. Contract disputes and reduced playing time can force talented players to explore new opportunities.

Player 9: [Insert Player Name] – [Team Name]

[Reasons for demanding a trade: Detail specific reasons using bullet points. Examples include contract expiring, decreased playing time, better opportunity elsewhere, lack of usage in the passing game, scheme changes impacting role.]

Contract expiring soon
Decreased carries and snaps
Lack of involvement in the passing game

[Repeat this structure for 3-4 running backs, incorporating relevant keywords like rushing yards, fantasy football rankings, offensive production.]

Defensive Players Seeking Championship Contenders (Keyword: NFL Defensive Trade)

Top defensive players often seek teams with a strong chance of winning the Super Bowl.

Player 13: [Insert Player Name] – [Team Name]

[Reasons for seeking a trade: Detail specific reasons using bullet points. Examples include team rebuilding, desire for a Super Bowl contender, lack of team success, dissatisfaction with coaching staff, personal preference.]

Team is rebuilding
Lack of playoff appearances
Desire to play for a contender

[Repeat this structure for 4-5 defensive players, incorporating relevant keywords like tackles, sacks, interceptions, defensive line, linebacker.]

Other Notable Players Considering Trades (Keyword: NFL Player Trades)

This section covers players from various positions not already covered above.

Player 18: [Insert Player Name] – [Team Name]

[Reasons for seeking a trade: Detail specific reasons using bullet points. Incorporate relevant keywords based on the player's position and situation. ]

[Repeat this structure for 2-3 players.]

Conclusion

This offseason is shaping up to be a pivotal one for many NFL players, with several stars potentially seeking new homes via trade. We've explored 20 players who, for various reasons, could initiate trade demands, creating a wave of roster reshuffling across the league. Their decisions will significantly impact the upcoming season's dynamics and power balance.

Call to Action: Keep an eye on these players and the developing situation. Who else do you think should demand a trade this offseason? Join the conversation in the comments below! Stay tuned for more updates on all the latest NFL player trades this season.