How the Past 5 Super Bowl Champions Handled the NFL Trade Deadline

Seattle found value in a small deal

Seattle acquired receiver and return specialist Rashid Shaheed from New Orleans for two Day 3 picks in the 2026 NFL Draft. The move addressed a need without becoming a major headline.

Shaheed returned the opening kickoff of the NFC Divisional Round against San Francisco 95 yards for a touchdown. He also had a 51-yard catch in the NFC Championship Game against the Rams, giving Sam Darnold a deep threat and helping on special teams.

Philadelphia won without trading

The Eagles made no trades at the 2024 deadline. They did acquire Jahan Dotson near the start of the regular season, but that came outside the deadline activity described here.

After starting 2-2, Philadelphia went 12-1 and then won four playoff games. The Eagles outscored opponents 95-45 across the NFC Championship Game and Super Bowl, demonstrating that a contender can succeed without adding players at the deadline.

Hardman’s late touchdown mattered

Kansas City acquired Mecole Hardman and a 2025 seventh-round pick from the Jets for a 2025 sixth-round pick. Hardman had spent his first four seasons with the Chiefs and returned as a depth option.

He had three catches for 57 yards in the Super Bowl, including a three-yard touchdown in overtime that secured the win. The trade looked modest, but Hardman made a decisive contribution.

Toney also aided Kansas City

Kadarius Toney helped Kansas City win Super Bowl LVII, catching a touchdown pass and returning a punt 65 yards. The return positioned the Chiefs to score another touchdown in a game they won by three points.