With the NFL trade deadline two weeks away, speculation is intensifying around several contenders looking to address roster weaknesses. The Minnesota Vikings, the league's only undefeated team at 6-0, are being linked to Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor to bolster an offense that has scored just 10 touchdowns, the fewest by a 6-0 team since the 1934 Detroit Lions. Quarterback Kyler Murray has struggled with consistency, ranking 27th in sack rate, 29th in passing success rate, and 31st in touchdown rate. Taylor, who totaled 110 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown against the Vikings in Week 7, would provide explosiveness while Aaron Jones manages a knee injury.
The Cincinnati Bengals (4-2) are reportedly eyeing New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley to improve a ground game averaging only 3.6 yards per carry. Chase Brown has posted -0.6 yards per attempt over expected, while Barkley is producing 1.15 yards per rush over expected despite a struggling supporting cast. The Buffalo Bills, 24th in defensive rushing success rate, could pursue Tennessee Titans defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons to pair with Deone Walker and alleviate pressure on a secondary that ranks 30th in defensive EPA per play and last in defensive success rate when quarterbacks aren't pressured.
After a 20-3 loss to the Seattle Seahawks exposed a nonexistent downfield passing attack, the Kansas City Chiefs are mentioned as a destination for Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Adonai Mitchell. Patrick Mahomes attempted three passes of 20+ yards without a completion, and the Chiefs have lacked a deep threat since Tyquan Thornton's injury. The Green Bay Packers (4-3) may target Colts defensive lineman DeForest Buckner, who has expressed a desire to play for a contender, to shore up an interior defensive line hit by injuries. The Detroit Lions are linked to Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Tariq Woolen, who has allowed a completion rate under 50% and 6.2 yards per attempt when targeted, as a low-cost secondary upgrade.
Other proposed matches include the Chicago Bears reuniting with Los Angeles Chargers edge rusher Khalil Mack, who has three sacks and seven quick pressures this season, to boost a pass rush that ranks 18th in pressure rate without blitzing. The San Francisco 49ers, 29th in percentage of opponent plays gaining zero or negative yards, could acquire Washington Commanders defensive lineman Daron Payne, who ranks 21st in PFF run defense grade among interior linemen. Finally, the New England Patriots, decimated by offensive line injuries, are suggested as a landing spot for Green Bay Packers guard Kevin Zeitler, a healthy scratch in Week 7 after signing last month.
