NFL Trade Deadline: The Biggest Needs in the AFC

As the NFL Trade Deadline approaches, teams have just a few days left to bolster their rosters ahead of the final stretch of the season. The deadline falls on November 5, at 22:00 CET, when teams will decide who stays and who may be headed elsewhere. With the ability to trade players still on the table, franchises will be looking to strengthen their squads or potentially begin the rebuilding process as they assess their playoff chances.

Franchises are preparing for crucial trading decisions.

Here, we take a closer look at each AFC team, pinpointing their most pressing needs as the clock ticks down towards the trade deadline.

AFC East

Buffalo Bills

Most Pressing Need: Inside Linebacker
The Bills currently enjoy a solid 6-2 record, positioning them well for a playoff run. The team appears to be in good shape overall, particularly as their division rivals struggle. However, the absence of All-Pro linebacker Matt Milano, who has been sidelined since suffering a biceps injury before the season, has left a notable gap. Additionally, with starting middle linebacker Terrel Bernard also injured, the Bills may look to shore up this critical position before the postseason.

Miami Dolphins

Most Pressing Need: Pass Rusher
At 2-5, the Dolphins are still in the race thanks to the return of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. In his first game back from a concussion, the Dolphins managed to score 27 points against the Cardinals, showcasing the offensive potential. However, they desperately need improvement in their pass rush to support a shaky defense that has struggled to put pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

New York Jets

Most Pressing Need: Safety
With Chuck Clark placed on injured reserve and others like Ashtyn Davis and Tony Adams currently sidelined, the Jets must find depth at the safety position. There’s speculation that a notable name, Budda Baker, could be a target in a potential trade as they seek to bolster their secondary.

New England Patriots

Most Pressing Need: Offensive Lineman
The Patriots’ offensive line has shown vulnerability this season. They currently lead the NFL in sacks allowed, and protecting their quarterback must be a priority if they want to stabilize their performance as they pursue a playoff spot.

The AFC East teams are all vying for playoff positioning.

AFC North

Pittsburgh Steelers

Most Pressing Need: Wide Receiver
Under Mike Tomlin’s leadership, the Steelers have consistently had winning seasons. However, to maintain that legacy, they may need to consider acquiring a top talent at the wide receiver position to enhance their offensive capability as they push for the postseason.

Cleveland Browns

Most Pressing Need: Draft Picks for Rebuild
The season has been a disappointment for the Browns with a dismal 1-6 record. As they look to regroup, acquiring draft picks for future seasons might be the approach they take.

Cincinnati Bengals

Most Pressing Need: Secondary
While the Bengals boast a competent secondary, they lack standout performers. Bolstering this unit would enhance their pass defense and overall effectiveness of the team.

Baltimore Ravens

Most Pressing Need: Pass Rush
The Ravens’ offensive unit is not the issue; however, they could benefit from strengthening their pass rush to apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks and improve their defensive play.

Teams in the AFC North have unique challenges as they approach the trade deadline.

AFC South

Houston Texans

Most Pressing Need: Offensive Lineman
Having started the season strong, the Texans still have areas where improvement is necessary, particularly on their offensive line, which requires reinforcement to support their signal-caller.

Indianapolis Colts

Most Pressing Need: Cornerback
The Colts are relatively well-rounded but could deepen their roster by adding talent at the cornerback position, enhancing their defensive capabilities.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Most Pressing Need: Wide Receiver
The Jaguars are in need of help at receiver, which has surfaced as a crucial area they must address before the trade deadline to assist their offensive efforts.

Tennessee Titans

Most Pressing Need: Right Tackle
With a lackluster 1-6 record, the Titans are not close to the playoffs and need to consider bolstering their offensive line, specifically at right tackle, to protect their quarterback and establish a more effective offense.

The AFC South teams are actively assessing trade opportunities.

AFC West

Kansas City Chiefs

Most Pressing Need: Cornerback
The Chiefs have been quite active in the trade market this season. Addressing the cornerback position could fortify their defense further and provide the necessary support against high-powered offenses.

Conclusion

As we approach the NFL Trade Deadline, decisions made in the coming days may have profound implications for franchises across the AFC. Each team is grappling with unique challenges and opportunities, with many looking to rectify their rosters for a final push towards the playoffs or to set themselves up for future success.

The outcome of trades may redefine teams’ prospects this season.