NFL trade deadline winners and losers: Which teams improved their playoff chances?
Jacksonville makes major moves
Jacksonville was the deadline’s biggest buyer, adding safety Jessie Bates from Atlanta for a second-round pick and bringing in Davon Godchaux to strengthen the defensive line. The Jaguars also acquired defensive tackle Jordan Davis from Philadelphia in the deadline’s biggest trade.
The plan is to help the defense stop more drives and let Jacksonville’s strong offense decide games. The article describes the team as confident that a few additional stops could make a difference.
Cousins moves on from Raiders
Kirk Cousins had wanted to return to Minnesota, and his time in Las Vegas gave him a veteran role mentoring Fernando Mendoza. The Raiders can now give Mendoza live playing experience, while Cousins gets an opportunity to compete for a Super Bowl ring.
Minnesota gave up a third-round pick for Cousins, a price the article says may have been high. But the Vikings avoided sacrificing more of their future, despite other teams knowing they were eager to make the deal.
The article also says Murray struggled during a one-year tryout in Minnesota and is unlikely to get another NFL starting job next season. It suggests a backup role or a possible move to baseball as options.
San Francisco adds veteran help
San Francisco acquired receiver Keenan Allen for a sixth-round pick. Though no longer an elite receiver, Allen is described as a dependable target who can gain tough yards and help his quarterback.
The move followed a trade a week earlier that brought DeForest Buckner back from Indianapolis. Together, the two veteran additions could steady the 49ers as they approach the playoffs, without requiring a major investment.
Taylor remains in Indianapolis
The Colts rejected several offers for running back Jonathan Taylor, reportedly hoping for a larger return. He therefore remains in Indianapolis despite expectations that he would be traded.
The article says Taylor had appeared to prepare for a departure, including saying goodbye to Colts fans and thanking the city. His return leaves him with a team the article characterizes as hopeless, after Indianapolis dealt away several players.
Key points
- Jacksonville made the deadline’s biggest splash, adding Jessie Bates, Davon Godchaux and Jordan Davis.
- The Raiders traded Kirk Cousins to Minnesota for a third-round pick and can turn to Fernando Mendoza.
- San Francisco acquired Keenan Allen for a sixth-round pick after bringing back DeForest Buckner.
- The Colts kept Jonathan Taylor after rejecting multiple trade offers.