The 2024 NFL trade deadline did not disappoint, delivering a whirlwind of blockbuster moves that reshaped the league’s landscape. Contenders armed up for the stretch run while rebuilding teams stockpiled future assets. We’re here to make sense of it all, analyzing and grading each major deal.
Chiefs Acquire DeAndre Hopkins in Stunner
In a move that sent shockwaves through the league, the Kansas City Chiefs landed superstar wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins from the Titans for a conditional 2025 fourth-round pick. Though the 32-year-old Hopkins may no longer be at his absolute peak, he remains an elite pass catcher who should provide an immediate boost to KC’s title defense.
“DeAndre is a true difference maker. He’ll open things up for our entire offense and be a great weapon for Pat [Mahomes] down the stretch.”
– Chiefs GM Brett Veach
The cost was minimal, and Hopkins’ contract is set to expire after the season, making this a classic rental move. We give the Chiefs an A- for addressing their biggest need, while the rebuilding Titans earn a B for extracting some value.
Amari Cooper Shipped to Buffalo
Not to be outdone, the Buffalo Bills added Amari Cooper in a trade with the Browns, surrendering a 2025 third-round pick. The 30-year-old Cooper is coming off a career year and should provide Josh Allen with another dangerous weapon alongside Stefon Diggs.
“Adding a premiere talent like Amari is a big boost for our offense. His route running and ability to get open are elite.”
– Bills coach Sean McDermott
Though Cooper comes with some risk given his age and slight decline in 2024, the price was right for the Super Bowl-hungry Bills. We grade it an A- for Buffalo and a B for a rebuilding Cleveland squad recouping value.
Vikings Reunite with Cam Akers
In a less splashy but intriguing move, the Minnesota Vikings brought back running back Cam Akers, whom they had acquired at the 2023 deadline. With injury concerns surrounding starter Aaron Jones, Akers provides valuable backfield depth.
The cost was minimal – a conditional sixth for a seventh – so the risk is low. We give it a B- for the Vikings and a B for the Texans, who had no real need for Akers behind a healthy Joe Mixon.
Seahawks, Titans Swap Linebackers
The Seattle Seahawks and Tennessee Titans exchanged linebackers, with Ernest Jones IV heading to Seattle and Jerome Baker going to Tennessee along with a fourth-round pick. Jones, a better run stopper and pass rusher, seems an upgrade and better fit for Seattle’s defense.
“Ernest is an impact player who can make plays in the backfield and get after the passer. He’ll fit well in our system.”
– Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald
The Titans, meanwhile, are looking to the future as they rebuild. We grade the deal a B- for the contending Seahawks and an A for Tennessee, which maximized the value of an expiring contract.
The Davante Adams Saga
Finally, we would be remiss not to mention the Davante Adams saga, which saw the star receiver reunite with old pal Aaron Rodgers on the Jets. Though a 2-4 Jets team sending a conditional third for the 31-year-old Adams raised eyebrows, we actually like the move for Gang Green.
Yes, Adams has shown signs of decline. But his chemistry with Rodgers could prove invaluable for a Jets team pot committed to chasing a title. We give them an A-, while the Raiders earn a B- for waiting too long to move an obvious trade chip and failing to maximize the return.
“Obviously, Tae [Adams] and I have a special connection. Adding a talent like that is huge for this offense and gives us another gear.”
– Jets QB Aaron Rodgers
As the dust settles from the 2024 NFL trade deadline, one thing is clear: The arms race is on. Contenders are all-in, even as key players change addresses at a dizzying pace. Buckle up for what’s sure to be a wild ride to the finish.
