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3 NFL players to watch for NFL Draft Day trades
TL;DR
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, teams are evaluating rosters and considering trades. Three players are highlighted as potential trade candidates during the draft weekend.
Key points
- 2026 NFL Draft is approaching
- Teams are evaluating rosters after free agency
- Several players are on the trade block
- Notable past trades include A.J. Brown and Marshall Faulk
- Multiple players could change teams during draft weekend
The NFL is moving full steam ahead toward the 2026 NFL Draft. Teams are finalizing their draft boards after evaluating their rosters in the wake of free agency.
As the draft approaches, several players have surfaced on the trade block. In past years, teams have completed notable deals involving star players after or during the draft — most notably A.J. Brown’s move to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2022 and Marshall Faulk’s trade to the St. Louis Rams in 1999.
MORE: 2026 NFL mock draft following Giants-Bengals blockbuster Dexter Lawrence trade
This year should be no different. Teams will almost certainly explore deals that send draft picks in exchange for proven veterans. By the end of draft weekend, multiple players could find new homes within a matter of days. Here are three players to watch as potential trade candidates during the 2026 NFL Draft.
Kyle Pitts
The Atlanta Falcons placed the franchise tag on Pitts early in the offseason, and he quickly signed the tender — a somewhat surprising move that raised questions about a possible trade scenario.
For now, Pitts remains in Atlanta, but that could change on draft night. If a team targeting Oregon standout Kenyon Sadiq in the first round misses out, Pitts could become an appealing alternative.
MORE: Top undrafted players in NFL history
Despite inconsistent quarterback play throughout his career, Pitts is coming off the best season of his career. A change of scenery could help him take another step forward.
Alex Highsmith
Recent reports suggest the Pittsburgh Steelers are open to moving either Alex Highsmith or Nick Herbig, though their asking price remains unclear.
Highsmith’s contract is team-friendly and easy to move, and he has already established himself as a productive edge rusher. He could immediately elevate any defensive front he joins.
MORE: Uncertainty around Aaron Rodgers forces Steelers into early QB move
That said, the Steelers are not under pressure to make a deal. With T.J. Watt getting older, maintaining depth in the pass rush remains a priority. It would likely take a strong offer to convince Pittsburgh to part ways with Highsmith.
Jacoby Brissett
Jacoby Brissett has emerged as a potential holdout candidate. As the Arizona Cardinals’ incumbent starter, he appears to be seeking a long-term extension — but that strategy may carry some risk.
The Cardinals have reportedly shown strong interest in drafting quarterback Ty Simpson. If they follow through, it could complicate Brissett’s future in Arizona.
On the other hand, Brissett may recognize the situation and prefer a fresh start elsewhere. If so, draft weekend could provide the perfect opportunity for a team in need of a veteran quarterback to make a move.
Q&A
Which NFL players are likely to be traded during the 2026 Draft?
Three players have been identified as potential trade candidates during the 2026 NFL Draft.
What notable trades have occurred during past NFL Drafts?
Notable trades include A.J. Brown's move to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2022 and Marshall Faulk's trade to the St. Louis Rams in 1999.
How do NFL teams prepare for trades during the Draft?
NFL teams finalize their draft boards and evaluate their rosters, often exploring deals that involve sending draft picks for proven veterans.
