The Most Notable Moves of the NFL Trade Deadline
The 2026 NFL trade deadline featured several major moves, including Kirk Cousins' return to the Minnesota Vikings, Jeffery Simmons' arrival at the Chicago Bears, and multiple defensive additions by teams looking to reach the Super Bowl.
The 2026 NFL trade deadline officially closed on Tuesday, November 10, at 4:00 p.m. ET, following a busy trading period that reshaped several teams' rosters.
One of the most notable moves was Kirk Cousins' return to the Minnesota Vikings, who sent a third-round pick in the 2027 NFL Draft to the Las Vegas Raiders.
The quarterback will reunite with Kevin O'Connell, while the Raiders will begin a new chapter with Fernando Mendoza as their starting quarterback.
Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears made one of the biggest investments of the deadline by acquiring defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons from the Tennessee Titans in exchange for two first-round picks and a fourth-round selection.
Jacksonville Jaguars and Buffalo Bills Strengthen Their Defenses
The Jacksonville Jaguars were among the most active teams in the trade market, acquiring Jordan Davis from the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for a 2027 first-round pick and a 2029 second-round selection.
Jacksonville also added safety Jessie Bates III from the Atlanta Falcons, strengthening two important areas of its defense.
The Buffalo Bills also moved to improve their secondary by acquiring Amani Hooker, who had recorded five interceptions through the first nine weeks of the season.
Chiefs, 49ers and Seahawks Add Offensive Talent
The Kansas City Chiefs acquired wide receiver Josh Downs from the Indianapolis Colts, sending fourth- and fifth-round picks in the 2027 NFL Draft in return.
Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers added veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen, also from Indianapolis, in exchange for a sixth-round selection.
Another significant trade involved Quenton Nelson, who left the Colts to join the Seattle Seahawks.
The offensive lineman, an eight-time Pro Bowl selection, represents an important addition to Seattle's quarterback protection.
With these moves, several franchises will look to capitalize on their new additions during the second half of the season, while others accumulate draft picks to strengthen their long-term plans.
Key Takeaways
- Kirk Cousins returned to the Minnesota Vikings, while Fernando Mendoza will take over as the Raiders' starting quarterback.
- The Chicago Bears acquired Jeffery Simmons in exchange for two first-round draft picks.
- The Jacksonville Jaguars strengthened their defense with Jordan Davis and Jessie Bates III.
- The Buffalo Bills acquired safety Amani Hooker.
- Josh Downs, Keenan Allen, and Quenton Nelson were also among the players traded.
