It’s that time of year again—the 2023 NFL Trade Deadline is just around the corner. While Halloween festivities are in full swing, teams are also looking to make moves that could revive struggling players’ careers or provide a fresh start for those stuck in unfavorable situations. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 10 NFL players who should seriously consider trading in their current jersey for a new one.
1. Davante Adams: A Hall of Fame Receiver in the Making
Davante Adams, widely regarded as one of the best wide receivers in football, has been a force to be reckoned with. With his impressive record of 769 receptions, 9,637 receiving yards, and 87 receiving touchdowns in his first nine seasons, Adams is on a trajectory toward the Pro Football Hall of Fame. However, his recent performance with the Las Vegas Raiders raises concerns about his Hall of Fame aspirations. Adams has gone three straight games without a touchdown or 100 yards receiving, and he hasn’t been satisfied with the team’s performance. If Adams wants to keep his dream alive and secure a chance to win, it may be time for him to explore other options.
2. Brian Burns: Unleashing His Potential
Brian Burns, the two-time Pro Bowl outside linebacker for the Carolina Panthers, has been a consistent disruptor on the field. Since 2020, he has amassed an impressive 191 quarterback pressures and 34.5 sacks, ranking him among the top players in the league. Unfortunately, the Panthers have yet to make it to the postseason during Burns’ tenure. With Burns in a contract year, it could be an opportune time for the Panthers to consider trading him for draft capital while giving Burns a chance to join a winning team.
3. Hunter Renfrow: A Bad Fit in Las Vegas
Hunter Renfrow, known for his ability to ad-lib routes and find open spaces, has struggled to fit into head coach Josh McDaniels’ structured offense. Despite his success in previous seasons, Renfrow has seen a significant decline in targets and playing time. With only six catches for 59 yards in six games this season, it’s clear that Renfrow needs a fresh start in a system that better suits his skills.
4. Chase Young: Rising Above a Struggling Team
Chase Young, the former NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, has experienced a rollercoaster of a career since his impressive debut. After tearing his ACL in 2021, Young has made a strong comeback in 2023, consistently pressuring quarterbacks and making an impact on the field. However, the Washington Commanders’ struggling defense and leaky secondary have hindered Young’s progress. A trade could provide Young with an opportunity to showcase his talents on a team with a stronger defense.
5. Carl Lawson: Seeking Opportunities for Pass Rush
Defensive end Carl Lawson was once a key piece of the New York Jets’ rebuilding process. After a promising season in 2022, Lawson has found himself on the sidelines in 2023, with limited playing time and a lack of opportunity to showcase his pass-rushing skills. With the Jets already boasting a formidable defensive line, a trade could give Lawson the chance to contribute to a team in need of his talents.
6. Antonio Gibson: A Buried Talent in Washington
Antonio Gibson, Washington’s talented running back, has seen his rushing opportunities diminish since the Commanders drafted Brian Robinson Jr. Gibson’s versatility as a pass-catcher and his impressive stats in his first two seasons make him an attractive option for teams in need of a dynamic playmaker. A change of scenery could reignite Gibson’s career and give him the chance to shine in a more prominent role.
7. Zack Ertz: A Red Zone Threat in Search of a Contender
Zack Ertz, once considered one of the best receiving tight ends in the NFL, has seen his role diminish since joining the struggling Arizona Cardinals. While Ertz has slowed down slightly, he still possesses the skills to be a valuable red-zone target for a team with playoff aspirations. A reunion with the Philadelphia Eagles or a move to another contender could provide Ertz with the opportunity he seeks.
8. Derek Barnett: A Super Bowl Hero in Need of a Role
Derek Barnett’s strip sack of Tom Brady in Super Bowl LII will forever be etched in the hearts of Philadelphia Eagles fans. However, since that defining moment, Barnett has struggled to find consistent playing time. With the Eagles’ loaded defensive line rotation, Barnett has been limited to a fraction of the snaps. A trade could give Barnett the opportunity to contribute more significantly to a team in need of his skills.
9. Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy: Talented Receivers in a Dysfunctional Environment
Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy have been the primary targets in the Denver Broncos’ offense, but the team’s dysfunction and poor performance have hindered their progress. With the Broncos off to a 1-5 start and struggling defensively, it may be wise for Sutton and Jeudy to explore opportunities with teams that can provide a more stable and productive environment.
10. Conclusion: A Chance for Change
As the 2023 NFL Trade Deadline approaches, these 10 players should seriously consider a change of scenery to revive their careers or escape unfavorable situations. Whether it’s finding a better fit for their skills, joining a winning team, or escaping dysfunction, a trade could provide the fresh start these players need. Only time will tell if any of these potential trades come to fruition, but one thing is certain—the trade deadline presents an opportunity for players and teams to make significant changes.
