NFL Trade Deadline Sees Surge of Activity
As the clock struck 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, the 2024 NFL trade deadline came to a close, marking a day full of significant moves. A total of eight trades took place before the cutoff, bringing the grand total to 18 trades since the start of the season. Teams vying for playoff spots were particularly busy, making adjustments in hopes of strengthening their rosters for the second half of the season.
This year, all but seven teams participated in at least one trade, signaling a dynamic shift in strategy across the league. Some teams made bold moves aimed at immediate success, while others opted to rebuild for future seasons. Here’s a recap of the most notable trades that occurred just before the deadline.
The Houston Texans sent defensive tackle Khalil Davis to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a 2026 seventh-round pick. Davis adds much-needed depth to a 49ers defense that recently lost star defensive tackle Javon Hargrave to injury.
In another notable deal, the Los Angeles Rams traded cornerback Tre’Davious White to the Baltimore Ravens for a 2026 seventh-round pick. White, a two-time Pro Bowler, has been sidelined for several weeks but aims to rebound in Baltimore.
Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers bolstered their defense by acquiring edge rusher Preston Smith from the Green Bay Packers. Smith, reaching 32 soon, brings experience and adds depth behind the stellar duo of T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith.
Additionally, the Steelers traded for wide receiver Mike Williams from the New York Jets. Williams, who has struggled this season, now joins a receiving corps needing support as they continue to chase playoff contention.
The Washington Commanders finally made a move by trading for Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore, hoping to shore up a struggling secondary that has given up the most passing yards in the league.
The Dallas Cowboys acquired wide receiver Jonathan Mingo from the Carolina Panthers as they deal with injuries in their receiving core. Mingo, a second-round pick last year, will look to make an impact amid the Cowboys’ offensive challenges.
Finally, the Cincinnati Bengals strengthened their backfield by acquiring running back Khalil Herbert from the Chicago Bears. Herbert’s previous performance shows promise, and his arrival could be pivotal for the Bengals as they aim for a late-season push.
With the trade deadline behind us, anticipation builds for how these changes will shape the upcoming weeks in the NFL.