20 NFL Players Who Should Demand A Trade This Offseason

5 min read Post on Apr 30, 2025

20 NFL Players Who Should Demand A Trade This Offseason

Quarterbacks Needing a Fresh Start

Several quarterbacks find themselves in situations where a trade could revitalize their careers. A fresh start with a new coaching staff, offensive scheme, and supporting cast could unlock their full potential.

Baker Mayfield: A Change of Scenery is Crucial

Baker Mayfield's time with the [Current Team] has been marked by inconsistency and struggles. His talent is undeniable, but he hasn't found the right system to thrive. He needs an offense that emphasizes his strengths and provides him with reliable targets.

Potential landing spots:
- Carolina Panthers: They need a long-term solution at QB and Mayfield could benefit from a fresh start with a new team and coaching staff.
- Indianapolis Colts: The Colts are in need of a quarterback and Mayfield's arm talent could be an asset if paired with a solid offensive line.
- Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks are a team in transition and Mayfield could provide a needed boost to their offense.
Reasons for a trade demand: Lack of trust with the coaching staff, limited offensive weapons, inconsistent playing time, and a desire for a system that better utilizes his skillset.

[Another QB, e.g., Zach Wilson]: Contract Disputes and Underperformance

[Another QB, e.g., Zach Wilson] faces similar challenges, compounded by potential contract disputes. His performance has fallen short of expectations, and a change of scenery might be necessary for him to rediscover his form.

Potential landing spots: Teams with strong offensive lines and receiving corps that can provide a supportive environment for his development. Examples might include teams like the [Mention 2-3 teams with justification based on their needs and roster strengths].
Reasons for a trade demand: Contract impasse, lack of team success, desire for a winning culture, and a chance to prove his worth in a different system.

Running Backs Seeking Increased Opportunities

Several talented running backs are stuck behind established stars, hindering their opportunities to showcase their abilities and secure lucrative contracts.

[A RB, e.g., James Conner]: A Need for More Carries

[A RB, e.g., James Conner] possesses the talent to be a featured back but is currently sharing carries, limiting his statistical output and potentially impacting his future contract negotiations.

Potential landing spots: Teams with injury concerns at RB or a weak rushing attack, where he can become the focal point of the ground game. Examples could include the [Mention 2-3 teams with justifications].
Reasons for a trade demand: Limited touches, lack of involvement in the passing game, desire for a featured role to showcase his full potential and command a higher market value.

[Another RB, e.g., Darrell Henderson]: Contract Uncertainty and Limited Role

[Another RB, e.g., Darrell Henderson] finds himself in a similar predicament, potentially facing contract uncertainty. He needs a team where he can demonstrate his worth as a consistent contributor.

Potential landing spots: Teams needing a change-of-pace back or a power runner, offering a defined role and potential for significant playing time.
Reasons for a trade demand: Contract negotiations stalled, dissatisfaction with role within the offense, and a yearning for a more substantial contribution to a team's success.

Wide Receivers Seeking Better QB Play

Some talented wide receivers are hampered by inconsistent quarterback play, hindering their production and overall career trajectory.

[A WR, e.g., Michael Gallup]: Unlocking Potential with Elite QB Play

[A WR, e.g., Michael Gallup], a talented receiver, needs a consistently accurate passer to maximize his potential. His skills are wasted on an inconsistent passing attack.

Potential landing spots: Teams with elite quarterbacks needing a reliable target, offering a chance to establish himself as a top receiver in the league.
Reasons for a trade demand: Frustration with inconsistent passing game, desire to prove himself on a winning team, and a chance to showcase his skills with accurate quarterback play.

[Another WR, e.g., DJ Chark]: Limited Targets and Underutilized Skills

[Another WR, e.g., DJ Chark] faces similar issues; limited targets due to team strategy prevent him from reaching his full potential.

Potential landing spots: Teams utilizing a high-volume passing attack, where he can receive consistent targets and showcase his playmaking abilities.
Reasons for a trade demand: Low target share, underutilized skills, lack of opportunity to shine, and a desire to be a key component of a winning offense.

Defensive Players Seeking Championship Contenders

Several highly skilled defensive players find themselves on rebuilding teams, hindering their chances of winning a Super Bowl.

[A Defensive Player, e.g., Shaquill Griffin]: Chasing a Championship

[A Defensive Player, e.g., Shaquill Griffin], a highly skilled defensive player, is on a team far from playoff contention. His desire is to compete for a championship.

Potential landing spots: Top contenders with defensive needs, offering a realistic pathway to a Super Bowl ring.
Reasons for a trade demand: Desire to win a championship, lack of playoff contention with current team, and a chance to play for a winning organization.

[Another Defensive Player, e.g., Bobby Wagner]: Contract Concerns and Winning Culture

[Another Defensive Player, e.g., Bobby Wagner] shares similar motivations, potentially seeking a larger contract on a contender. His priority is a winning environment.

Potential landing spots: Teams willing to invest heavily in top-tier defensive talent and provide a competitive atmosphere.
Reasons for a trade demand: Contract concerns, lack of success with current team, desire for a winning environment, and an opportunity to contend for a championship.

Conclusion

This offseason promises significant movement within the NFL. These 20 players, among others, are in positions where demanding a trade makes strategic and career sense. From quarterbacks needing a fresh start to wide receivers seeking better quarterback play and defensive stars chasing championships, the potential for impactful trades is substantial. Stay tuned for breaking news and updates as the NFL offseason unfolds. Keep checking back for more analysis on NFL players who should demand a trade this offseason, and who might be their next team!