NFL Offseason Trade Market: Ranking the Top 15 Targets for 2026
By Oddixa —
As the NFL landscape shifts toward the 2026 offseason, we rank the top 15 trade candidates and analyze how these potential moves could shake up the betting markets.
Shifting the Odds: The 2026 NFL Trade Landscape
In the NFL, the roster-building cycle never truly sleeps. Even as we look toward the 2026 offseason, savvy front offices—and even savvier bettors—are already identifying the stars who might be wearing new colors next year. A high-profile trade doesn’t just change a depth chart; it can swing Super Bowl futures by several hundred points and completely recalibrate a team's win-total floor.
From disgruntled pass rushers to young receivers caught in rebuilding projects, the 2026 trade market is shaping up to be a volatile environment. Here is our breakdown of the top 15 trade candidates and what their movement could mean for the betting board.
The Defensive Anchors: Maxx Crosby and the Edge Market
Topping the list of potential landscape-shifters is Raiders superstar Maxx Crosby. Crosby remains one of the premier sack artists in the league, but as Las Vegas enters another potential transition period, his value as a trade chip is at an all-time high.
Betting Insight: If Crosby is moved to a legitimate contender—think Detroit or Philadelphia—expect that team’s odds to win their division to shorten immediately. For player props, Crosby’s sack totals often stay consistent regardless of scheme, but his presence elevates the "Under" potential for opposing quarterbacks' passing yards.
Offensive Fireworks: Brian Thomas Jr. and the Wide Receiver Carousel
One of the more intriguing names surfacing in trade discussions is Jaguars standout Brian Thomas Jr. While young and immensely talented, the direction of the Jacksonville franchise could dictate his availability. If the Jaguars opt for a total teardown, Thomas Jr. becomes the ultimate prize for a quarterback-rich team lacking a vertical threat.
Betting Insight: Landing a receiver of Thomas’s caliber can turn a "Project Quarterback" into a Pro Bowler. Bettors should watch the "Most Improved Player" markets for any QB who inherits a weapon like Thomas via trade.
Ranking the Top 15 Trade Candidates
1. Maxx Crosby (DE, LV): The ultimate blue-chip asset for a contender.
2. Brian Thomas Jr. (WR, JAX): A high-ceiling weapon currently in a muddy situation.
3. Kyler Murray (QB, ARI): Depending on the Cardinals' draft position, a reset could be in play.
4. Sauce Gardner (CB, NYJ): If the Jets' window closes, Gardner commands a king's ransom.
5. Deebo Samuel (WR/RB, SF): The 49ers' cap constraints make him a perennial trade candidate.
6. Myles Garrett (DE, CLE): A veteran superstar who might want out of a rebuilding Browns squad.
7. DK Metcalf (WR, SEA): High salary and high production make him a prime trade-and-extend target.
8. Jalen Ramsey (CB, MIA): Still elite, but the Dolphins may look to get younger.
9. Tee Higgins (WR, CIN): The long-term contract saga in Cincy often points toward a departure.
10. Dexter Lawrence (DT, NYG): A dominant force who could net the Giants multiple first-rounders.
11. Alvin Kamara (RB, NO): The Saints’ salary cap woes eventually come for everyone.
12. Cooper Kupp (WR, LAR): A veteran piece that could help a contender over the hump.
13. Budda Baker (S, ARI): A perennial trade-block resident who provides instant secondary stability.
14. Courtland Sutton (WR, DEN): An affordable veteran target for teams needing a WR2.
15. Khalil Mack (DE, LAC): A short-term rental for a team in a "Super Bowl or Bust" window.
How Big Moves Impact the Betting Board
When a star is traded, the most immediate impact is seen in NFL Futures. For example, a team like the Atlanta Falcons moving from a +2500 Super Bowl longshot to +1800 often happens within minutes of a trade announcement for a player like Maxx Crosby.
However, the real value for bettors is often found in the Season Win Totals. If a rebuilding team like the Giants trades away a defensive pillar like Dexter Lawrence, their projected win total (e.g., 6.5) may plummet. If you can catch the market before the bookmakers adjust the juice, there is significant ROI to be found on the "Under."
The Quarterback Factor
While the 2026 market features heavy defensive talent, keep a close eye on Kyler Murray. If a team with a strong offensive line but no signal-caller trades for Murray, their offensive "Over" potential for the season skyrockets. Quarterback movement is the single greatest catalyst for line movement in sports betting, and Murray remains the biggest wildcard in the deck.
Stay tuned to Oddixa for real-time updates as these trade rumors develop into confirmed transactions.