The 2026 NFL trade deadline is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 4 p.m. ET, but the market has already experienced a significant surge in activity. In the last 48 hours, two major trades have reshaped the rosters of NFC contenders as teams move aggressively to address injuries and defensive gaps ahead of the mid-season mark.
The New York Giants acquired quarterback J.J. McCarthy from the Minnesota Vikings on Sept. 30, following a season-ending injury to Giants starter Jaxson Dart. The deal, which sent a 2027 fifth-round pick to Minnesota, was followed quickly on Oct. 1 by the Dallas Cowboys securing cornerback Joey Porter Jr. from the Pittsburgh Steelers. Dallas surrendered a 2027 sixth-round pick and a 2028 second-round pick to finalize the Porter Jr. acquisition.
Arizona’s Roster Pivot and Trade Candidates
The Arizona Cardinals have emerged as the primary focal point of trade discussions as the organization appears to be shifting toward a significant rebuild. The most notable development is the availability of wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. Only three years into his career, Harrison Jr. has seen limited involvement in the offense, recording four receptions for 73 yards through the first three games of the 2026 season.
Analysis of Arizona’s recent financial commitments suggests Harrison Jr. has become expendable due to the team’s investment in other pass-catchers. The Cardinals signed wide receiver Michael Wilson to a three-year, $75 million extension in September 2025 and reached a $76 million extension with tight end Trey McBride. With Jacoby Brissett now established as the Cardinals’ starting quarterback, Kyler Murray is also considered a high-profile trade candidate for teams seeking veteran help at the position.
The Cardinals’ defensive unit is also under scrutiny. Safety Budda Baker, now in his 10th season, is frequently cited by league sources as a prime trade candidate. Additionally, pass rusher Josh Sweat has drawn interest despite being listed as questionable for Week 4 with a groin injury. Sweat is currently in the second year of a four-year, $76.4 million contract. Analysts have pointed to a potential reunion with former Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon—who now serves as the defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers—as a possible motivator for a move to the NFC North.
Market Outlook and Potential Sellers
While some organizations are finalizing NFL trade grades for the moves already completed, several other high-value players remain under watch as the Nov. 10 deadline approaches. Among the most discussed names is Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby. Though the Raiders’ trajectory remains a point of internal debate, Crosby is viewed as a premier “sell high” target if the team decides to prioritize future draft capital over current production.
The following players and teams are expected to drive the narrative over the next five weeks:
- Kyler Murray (QB, Cardinals): Displaced by Brissett, Murray represents the most experienced quarterback likely to be moved this cycle.
- Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR, Cardinals): Following his slow start and the team’s long-term commitment to Michael Wilson, the former high draft pick is a top target for WR-needy contenders.
- Josh Sweat (DE, Cardinals): His contract and connection to Jonathan Gannon make him a logical fit for the Green Bay Packers.
- Budda Baker (S, Cardinals): A veteran presence who could stabilize a playoff-bound secondary.
- Maxx Crosby (DE, Raiders): League sources continue to monitor his status as a potential blockbuster acquisition.
The Giants and Cowboys have already signaled their intent to compete by parting with future picks. As the deadline nears, the focus shifts to whether the Packers or other AFC contenders will match that aggression to keep pace in an increasingly active 2026 trade market.
