Everything you need to know about the NFL trade deadline

The GIST: While quarterback (QB) Tom Brady and his Tampa Bay Buccaneers were making the wrong kind of history in last night’s 27–22 Thursday Night Football loss to the Baltimore Ravens, the rest of the league was already thinking ahead to next Tuesday’s trade deadline, with some game-changers potentially on the move.

How it works: Like most other major pro leagues, the NFL’s trade deadline presents a midseason opportunity for teams to either add talent and address their weaknesses before making a playoff push or, if they’re already likely out of postseason contention, to trade away strong players in exchange for future draft picks. It’s all about balance.

Who has already been dealt: The trade deadline is Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, but a couple of overachievers started early. The San Francisco 49ers kicked things off with a splash last week, acquiring superstar running back (RB) Christian McCaffrey from the struggling Carolina Panthers.

• Then the undefeated Philadelphia Eagles flew into the fun on Wednesday, bolstering their defense with veteran defensive end and former Chicago Bear Robert Quinn.

Top trade candidates: The party’s just getting started because there are rumors of even more movement to come in the days ahead. The names of a handful of elite wide receivers (WR) have been floated, including Denver Broncos 2020 first round pick Jerry Jeudy and TikTok star Chase Claypool, who currently suits up for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

• And as the season nears its halfway point with this week’s Week 8 slate, each team’s future plans (along with their trade prospects) will come into even clearer focus. Watch this space.