The NFL trade deadline has come and gone, and it was one for the books. In fact, I can’t remember a deadline that was more thrilling than this one. With blockbuster deals and unexpected moves, it was a wild ride for every team and fan in the league.
One of the biggest moves of the deadline was the trade of Saquon “Sauce” Gardner from the New York Giants to the Los Angeles Rams. Gardner, who was selected second overall in the 2018 draft, has been a key player for the Giants since his rookie season. So, it was a shock for many when he was shipped off to the Rams.
On the other hand, the Rams gave up a lot to acquire Gardner, sending a first-round pick, a second-round pick, and a player to the Giants. This move shows just how much the Rams believe in Gardner’s talent and his ability to make an impact on their team. And with the Rams currently sitting at the top of the NFC West, Gardner’s addition only strengthens their chances of making a deep playoff run.
But Gardner wasn’t the only big name to be traded out of the Big Apple. Quinnen Williams, the former third overall pick by the New York Jets, was also dealt to the Green Bay Packers. This move was another shocker, as Williams was considered a cornerstone piece for the Jets’ defense. However, the Packers saw an opportunity to add a dominant defensive lineman to their already strong unit, and they jumped on it.
It’s clear that the Giants and Jets were not afraid to make bold moves at the deadline. And while both teams may have given up key players, they also made some significant additions to their rosters.
The Giants acquired linebacker Jaylon Smith from the Dallas Cowboys, adding a playmaker to their defense. Smith has been a standout for the Cowboys for the past five seasons, and his leadership and experience will be valuable for the young Giants team.
The Jets, on the other hand, received a boost to their offense with the addition of wide receiver Allen Robinson from the Chicago Bears. Robinson is a dynamic playmaker who will provide quarterback Zach Wilson with a reliable target in the passing game.
But it wasn’t just the New York teams making moves at the deadline. The Kansas City Chiefs, who have been struggling this season, made a big splash by trading for running back Dalvin Cook from the Minnesota Vikings. Cook has been one of the best running backs in the league in recent years and will bring a much-needed spark to the Chiefs’ struggling offense.
Another significant move was the trade of Von Miller from the Denver Broncos to the Los Angeles Chargers. Miller has been a dominant force for the Broncos for over a decade, but with the team in a rebuilding phase, they decided to part ways with the veteran linebacker. The Chargers, who are looking to make a playoff push, will benefit greatly from Miller’s experience and pass-rushing abilities.
Overall, this year’s trade deadline was one of the most eventful and exciting in recent memory. Teams were not afraid to make bold moves to improve their rosters, and it’s clear that the landscape of the league has shifted.
But now that the dust has settled and all the trades have been made, it’s time to grade and analyze the moves that were made.
First, the Giants’ trade of Saquon Gardner to the Rams. While it may be tough to see a talent like Gardner leave, the Giants received a significant haul in return. The first and second-round picks will be crucial for the team’s future, and Jaylon Smith adds much-needed depth to their defense. Grade: B+
The Jets’ decision to trade Quinnen Williams may have been a surprise, but they made the most of it by acquiring Allen Robinson. Robinson will be a valuable weapon for Zach Wilson and could help turn the Jets’ offense around. Grade: A-
The Rams’ trade for Gardner was a bold move, but it shows just how much they believe in his talent. The addition of Gardner makes their already potent offense even more dangerous, and the Rams are now the team to beat in the NFC West. Grade: A
The Broncos’ decision to trade Von Miller may have been a tough one, but it was the right move for a team in a rebuilding phase. The Chargers, on the other hand, made a smart move by acquiring Miller, who will make an immediate impact on their defense. Grade: B+
Finally, the Chiefs’
