The NFL trade deadline has wrapped up, and this year was less eventful compared to previous years. A notable number of trades occurred toward the end of the deadline, with some teams making strategic improvements while others believed their current roster was enough to remain competitive for the rest of the season. Here are the key winners and losers from the 2026 NFL trade deadline.
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Chicago Bears
The Bears acquired Jeffery Simmons a few days before the deadline, and he has already made his presence known. The Bears are going to win football games because of this defense, and Caleb Williams has plenty of options to throw to. They gave up a haul to get him, but he will be worth the price for sure.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars were the busiest team heading into the deadline and made a big splash on former DT Jordan Davis of the Philadelphia Eagles. Jacksonville already has an awesome defense, but adding another piece like Davis adds to this ferocious defense. A strong add for them, as they also traded for Jessie Bates III and veteran DT Davon Godchauk.
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Eagles
The Eagles are out of contention and are preparing for the 2027 draft. They are acquiring a surplus of picks in the Jordan Davis deal and other trades that they have made. Howie Roseman has proved in the past that he can build winning teams following a bad season. They have pieces, and if they hit on their draft picks,, then they will be in good shape for the 2027 season. A very good job by Howie Roseman.
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Rams
The Rams are without Puka Nacua and Davante Adams long-term. Where was the aggression to pursue a receiver? The 49ers acquired Keenan Allen, and the Rams felt that their receiving core is good enough to win? Weird that this team didn’t try to improve their weapons for an aging Matthew Stafford. Their offense now relies heavily on Kyren Williams and Blake Corum.
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Colts
The Colts decided to trade everyone but their 28-year-old running back Jonathan Taylor. At what point do you question their process for what they are doing? The Colts had solid offers from teams for Jonathan Taylor, and they decided to keep him. Running backs don’t typically age well in their late 30s unless your name is Christian McCaffrey. If they were going to blow it up, which they did, they might as well trade Jonathan Taylor too. Multiple teams inquired about Daniel Jones, and they refused to move on from him. Are they about to keep Jones long-term?
Chargers
The Chargers have yet to win a game and are not interested in giving up any of their players. The goal should be to acquire some draft capital for some of their players on expiring deals, but they stayed put. A poor strategy, and there is no guarantee they get the No. 1 overall pick in this upcoming draft. They poorly managed their deadline.
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