The NFL trade deadline is right around the corner, and we have actually already seen a flurry of moves take place. The San Francisco 49ers grabbed Randy Gregory from the Denver Broncos, the Miami Dolphins took a flier on Chase Claypool, and Van Jefferson got a fresh start with the Atlanta Falcons.
Usually, the NFL trade deadline has a lot more bark than bite, but there will be moves that are made. Last year’s trade deadline was actually fairly entertaining, as the Dolphins traded for Bradley Chubb, the Jacksonville Jaguars surprised everyone by acquiring the suspended Calvin Ridley, and the Pittsburgh Steelers sent Claypool to the Chicago Bears. Could we see some big moves later this month?
Below, we will break down five NFL teams that should be buyers at the trade deadline, as well as specific players they should target.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys’ Sunday night loss to the 49ers was devastating in more ways than one. Despite losing to an NFC rival by 32 points, Dallas also lost linebacker Leighton Vander Esch to a neck injury, KaVontae Turpin to a high-ankle sprain, C.J. Goodwin to a torn pectoral. Defensive backs Jourdan Lewis and DaRon Bland were banged-up, too. The Cowboys could stand to boost their defense before the trade deadline.
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It’s possible Dallas could add a veteran on the defensive interior. With LVE down, the Cowboys could peruse the linebacker market. I think the secondary could be in play, too. When Trevon Diggs went down with his torn ACL, the Cowboys weren’t quick to hit the market for a new cornerback. After the 49ers loss and with more injuries, maybe the front office reconsiders.
The Week 5 loss was a wake-up call for Dallas, but the Cowboys are still one of the best teams in the NFC. Jerry Jones is going to explore every opportunity when it comes to finalizing and fortifying his roster before the trade deadline, which is why Dallas should be buyers this month.
Players to target: CB Patrick Surtain II, DT Calais Campbell, LB Josey Jewell, LB Denzel Perryman, CB Kristian Fulton, EDGE Frank Clark
