2024 NFL Trade Deadline: Grading Each Deal Like Your High School Report Card – Who Gets an A+ and Who’s Failing?
The NFL’s trade deadline has once again delivered excitement, with last-minute deals reshaping teams in their playoff pursuits. Here’s a breakdown of the most notable trades and how each team scored on these moves.
Bills Score Big with Amari Cooper Addition
Buffalo Bills: Grade: A
The Bills made a splash by bringing in wide receiver Amari Cooper from the Browns. Known for consistently high performance, Cooper averaged over 2.00 yards per route run during his time in Cleveland. This acquisition arms Josh Allen with a proven target, strengthening Buffalo’s offensive firepower as they push deeper into the season.
Cleveland Browns: Grade: B
For Cleveland, trading Cooper signals a possible shift toward rebuilding. With Deshaun Watson’s future uncertain, the Browns gain valuable draft capital that can support their long-term roster strategies.
Jets Reunite Rodgers and Adams for a Dynamic Offense
New York Jets: Grade: A+
Despite a rocky season, the Jets made a bold move by reuniting quarterback Aaron Rodgers with his former Green Bay teammate, Davante Adams. For the cost of a third-round pick that could become a second, the Jets gain a reliable target for Rodgers—an essential move that could help turn their season around.
Las Vegas Raiders: Grade: B
The Raiders receive a solid return for Adams, with a third-round pick that might upgrade to a second based on performance. With Adams’ departure, the Raiders look to realign their offense for the future.
Chiefs Add Depth with Josh Uche and DeAndre Hopkins
Kansas City Chiefs: Grades: B+ for both Uche and Hopkins trades
Kansas City bolstered its roster by acquiring pass-rusher Josh Uche from the Patriots and wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins from the Titans. Uche provides valuable pass-rush depth, while Hopkins—though past his prime—could offer playoff experience and reliability. These moves are strategic adds as the Chiefs seek another Super Bowl run.
New England Patriots and Tennessee Titans: Grades: C and B-, respectively
The Patriots and Titans see modest returns, with the Titans gaining conditional picks that could increase in value if the Chiefs reach the Super Bowl. For both teams, these trades are a step in transitioning into the next phase of their development.
Vikings Address Critical Offensive Need with Cam Robinson
Minnesota Vikings: Grade: A
Faced with the loss of offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw, the Vikings needed a strong replacement. Cam Robinson steps in with solid pass-blocking grades, filling a critical gap and boosting the Vikings’ offensive line. This move keeps their playoff hopes alive.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Grade: B-
The Jaguars part with Robinson in return for a conditional draft pick, which may improve based on Robinson’s playing time. It’s a reasonable deal for Jacksonville, which has broader roster adjustments in mind.
Ravens and Cardinals Add Depth for Playoff Pushes
Baltimore Ravens: Grade: B+
Baltimore picked up wide receiver Diontae Johnson from the Panthers in a low-cost move to deepen their receiving corps. Johnson’s addition provides insurance and support behind their primary targets, Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman.
Arizona Cardinals: Grade: B+
The Cardinals acquired edge rusher Baron Browning from Denver for a future draft pick, adding defensive depth at a reasonable cost. Browning’s previous pass-rushing success could pay off, making this a promising addition for Arizona.
As the dust settles, teams will look to leverage these new assets to strengthen their playoff bids or prepare for future success. Whether these deals become game-changers remains to be seen, but the NFL trade deadline has once again proven to be a critical point in the season.