Week 9 of the 2025 NFL season brings the usual drama, but this year’s trade chatter feels different. With November 4th’s deadline fast approaching, front offices are making their final calculations. ESPN insiders Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano have been tracking the pulse of the market, and what they’re hearing paints a picture of cautious optimism mixed with genuine desperation from struggling franchises.
Trey Hendrickson Stays Put (For Now)
The Cincinnati Bengals have turned down multiple inquiries for edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, sending a clear message that they’re not ready to wave the white flag just yet. Teams like the 49ers and Cowboys have kicked the tires, but Cincinnati isn’t budging—at least not while they still have mathematical hope.
San Francisco’s recent pass rush acquisition might have cooled their pursuit anyway. The real test comes this weekend: if the Bengals drop to 3-6 against Chicago, that calculus could shift dramatically. Hendrickson’s been nursing a minor hip issue, but he’s expected back to full strength soon. The Colts remain particularly intrigued, given their connection to former defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo.
Breece Hall’s Uncertain Future
Earlier this season, most league observers assumed Jets running back Breece Hall was as good as gone. Contract year, rebuilding team, younger talent waiting—it seemed like a foregone conclusion. But football has a way of complicating neat narratives.
Injuries to Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis have suddenly made Hall indispensable, while his recent explosion (133 rushing yards and multiple scores) reminded everyone why he was once considered elite. The Jets are taking their bye week to reassess everything. A blockbuster offer might still pry him loose, but don’t be shocked if Hall’s still in green and white come 2026.
Jakobi Meyers Drawing Real Interest
If you’re looking for a receiver who might actually get moved, Las Vegas Raiders wideout Jakobi Meyers checks all the boxes. The Steelers, Broncos, and Bills have all sniffed around, drawn by his steady production (29 catches, 329 yards this year).
Las Vegas wants legitimate compensation—don’t bother calling with late-round picks. The Raiders’ recent addition of veteran Tyler Lockett gives them more flexibility to part with Meyers. Pittsburgh appears to be leading the chase, though they’re playing it cool and not showing desperation. Smart approach in a seller’s market.
Miami’s Pass Rush Dilemma
The Miami Dolphins find themselves in an awkward spot with edge rushers Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb. Word around the league suggests one of them could be available, but Miami’s front office isn’t exactly advertising a fire sale.
Despite Tyreek Hill’s season-ending injury, the Dolphins remember how quickly last year turned around after a brutal start. General manager Chris Grier is being selective, not desperate. But if they fall to 2-7 after facing Baltimore, pragmatism might win out over optimism. This isn’t about tearing everything down—it’s about being realistic with assets that don’t fit the timeline.
Sleeper Trade Candidates Worth Watching
New York Giants offensive lineman Evan Neal represents the kind of buy-low opportunity that savvy teams love. The seventh overall pick from 2022 hasn’t lived up to expectations in New York, and he’s set to hit free agency. With offensive line help at a premium across the league, the Giants might cut bait for the right Day 2 pick.
Don’t sleep on Falcons edge rusher Arnold Ebiketie either. The former second-rounder has been generating quiet buzz since training camp. Atlanta would prefer to keep him, but they’re not hanging up on interested parties either.
Teams Making Moves
The New York Jets present the most fascinating case study. That 1-7 record looks awful on paper, but there’s genuine talent scattered throughout this roster. They’re fielding calls on slot corner Michael Carter II while resisting any temptation to blow things up completely.
Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers aren’t satisfied with their recent defensive additions. Despite their strong record, they’re still hunting for impact players. The Pittsburgh Steelers made waves by adding safety Kyle Dugger and remain active in the receiver market.
Other teams generating chatter: the Denver Broncos are evaluating multiple position groups, the New England Patriots have cap space and a recent history of moving defensive pieces, and perennial contenders like the Chiefs, Bills, and Ravens continue making subtle adjustments for playoff runs.
Injury Updates and Final Notes
Lamar Jackson should be back against Miami after missing time with a hamstring tweak. His practice sessions this week have looked encouraging, which is great news for Baltimore’s playoff hopes.
Browns star Myles Garrett didn’t hide his frustration after last week’s loss, and despite that massive contract extension, his name keeps surfacing in trade conversations. Cleveland’s new stadium situation changes their financial calculations, making a truly spectacular offer theoretically possible.
The New Orleans Saints might finally be ready to face reality. At 1-7, players like receivers Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed could be available as the organization evaluates its future direction.
Other bits worth noting: The Patriots remain busy after dealing safety Kyle Dugger and defensive end Keion White. The Dolphins are weighing options with veteran rusher Matthew Judon, while Phillips seems increasingly likely to stay put. The Lions keep popping up in cornerback discussions. And Panthers quarterback Bryce Young is healing well from his ankle injury, potentially returning soon to give Carolina’s offense a boost.
With 72 hours until the 4 p.m. ET deadline on November 4th, expect the phone lines to stay busy. Some teams are already satisfied with their moves, while others are still hunting for that perfect fit. The next few days should separate the contenders from the pretenders—and reveal which front offices are willing to bet big on their championship dreams.
