Five bold trade predictions before the 2024 NFL deadline: Steelers and Vikings make eye-catching additions

All 32 NFL teams have until 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday to make last-minute trades, otherwise they will have to wait until the 2025 offseason to make veteran trades. Which clubs could change their lineups mid-season? Here we have five bold predictions for deadline deals:

1. Steelers land new offensive weapon

The Steelers are undefeated in near misses on the wide receiver trade market this year. However, at 32 years old, Lockett wouldn’t necessarily need a premium return, especially since the Seattle Seahawks already have two young players at the position in DK Metcalf and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. His history with new Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson would make him a smart complement to No. 1 George Pickens.

2. The Lions are increasing the pass rush

For weeks, the Cleveland Browns’ Za’Darius Smith has been linked to Motown as a logical, if not likely, acquisition to fill the void left by the injured Aidan Hutchinson. What if another contender emerged to secure the Pro Bowler spot? Jordan would make for a viable consolation prize. Despite his strong ties to the New Orleans Saints, the longtime pass rusher could be available as part of the team’s coaching change.

3. Vikings strengthen defensive line

Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has already made two deals, reteaming with Cam Akers and signing Cam Robinson to replace the injured Christian Darrisaw. However, neither move cost a ton of money, and Minnesota remains right in the thick of the NFC North race. Simmons would be a blockbuster improvement to Brian Flores’ already feisty defensive front, and he wouldn’t hurt their long-term plans either.

4. Falcons add second proven edge rusher

• Browns trade Za’Darius Smith to Atlanta

The Falcons already brought in an experienced edge rusher in Matthew Judon earlier this year, but who’s to say they’re happy with that, especially with Kirk Cousins ​​and Co. on their way to an NFC South crown? Smith is an equally enticing rental rusher, and new coach Raheem Morris has experience quickly integrating a proven outside linebacker, particularly in converting Von Miller’s move to the Los Angeles Rams in 2021.

5. The Eagles are sending a talented pass rusher to the Patriots

The Philadelphia Eagles just signed Huff to a three-year, $51 million contract this spring, but the former New York Jets prospect has played an extremely minimal role in Vic Fangio’s pass-rushing rotation. With others like Josh Sweat and Nolan Smith doing better recently, general manager Howie Roseman might prefer to move Huff’s bloated deal to New England, where Josh Uche was currently at the same position.