As the NFL embarks on a fresh league year, a flurry of significant transactions has already reshaped team rosters. Yet, as the 2024 NFL Draft inches closer, the rumor mill is far from quiet. Several high-profile players remain the subjects of intense speculation, hinting at the possibility of blockbuster trades that could send shockwaves through the league. Here, we spotlight five standout talents whose futures are in the spotlight, generating buzz as speculation mounts and the draft day drama unfolds. These individuals are not just names in the trade winds; they are proven game-changers, poised to redefine team strategies and fan expectations as the draft approaches.
Chris Godwin, WR: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are poised to defend their NFC South crown as they head into the 2024 season. They clarified those intentions when re-signed players such as Baker Mayfield, Mike Evans, and Lavonte David. Tampa Bay could not agree on a new deal with safety Antoine Winfield Jr.; instead, both sides opted for the franchise tag that will pay Winfield $17.123 million for 2024. Their fellow teammate Chris Godwin could be a player that could be moved in the foreseeable future. Godwin is in the final year of an expensive contract that pays him $27.4 million. With much talent at the receiver position in the draft, the Bucs may prefer a younger, cheaper, and healthier talent to assume his role.
Zach Wilson, QB: New York Jets
Zach Wilson could not make a strong impression on potential suitors when he took over for an injured Aaron Rodgers last season. Team owner Woody Johnson has clarified that the team will keep Wilson on the roster if a trade partner cannot be found. However, Wilson’s stay in New York should come to an end. It doesn’t matter if it’s by trade or release, which the Jets are dreading as an option.
Matthew Judon, DE: New England Patriots
It’s a new era in New England and will begin without Bill Belichick or Tom Brady. Under the guidance of new head coach Jarrod Mayo, the Patriots usher in a new phase that will call for a significant rebuild. Edge rusher Matthew Judon is a player that the Patriots may be willing to part ways with as the season slowly approaches. Judon is 32 and is coming off a season-ending injury. The veteran talent is also entering a contract year, which can make things even more interesting if he stays on the roster and reverts to his Pro Bowl status. If teams call to pique interest, New England will listen.
Budda Baker, S: Arizona Cardinals
As a team flushed with cap space, the Arizona Cardinals can afford to keep safety Budda Baker on the roster. However, we all know that franchises prefer stellar production at the cheapest rate unless it’s at the quarterback position. The Cardinals have Jalen Thompson, who is younger and does not cost as much compared to the All-Pro safety Baker. With the draft looming, Arizona may be willing to find another younger option to go along with Thompson in the Cardinals secondary. At this stage in his career, Baker may be willing to join a contender who is ready to win now over a team that is still in a rebuilding phase.
Marshon Lattimore, CB: New Orleans Saints
Are things so heated between Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore and head coach Dennis Allen that a trade could occur? Reports have stated that Lattimore’s lack of availability over the past two seasons has not sat well with the Saints front office. The former first-round pick out of Ohio State has only appeared in 17 games over the past two seasons due to battling numerous injuries. If a move were to occur right now instead of after June 1st, it would have significant implications on the Saints’ salary cap. According to Over the Cap, New Orleans must account for $31.27 million in cap charges.
However, if a trade happened after June 1st, the transaction would drastically lower the dead money charges that would be due. However, here’s something to consider: with the way the L’Jarius Snead trade occurred, would the Saints receive anything of value between now and the post-June 1st deadline? The Chiefs only received a 2025 third-round pick and a swap of 2024 seventh-round picks.
