2025 NFL Trade Deadline Grades: Jets, Cowboys and Other Top Moves on Deadline Day
The 2025 NFL Trade Deadline has come and gone, leaving a flurry of activity in its wake. Several teams made bold moves to bolster their rosters for a playoff push, while others opted to sell off assets and focus on the future. Let’s break down some of the most notable trades and hand out grades for the teams involved, focusing on the Jets, Cowboys, and a few other key players in this year’s deadline drama. Were the 2025 NFL Trade Deadline Grades justified?
New York Jets: Bold Moves or Desperate Measures?
The New York Jets were arguably the most active team at the deadline. They acquired veteran wide receiver Davante Adams from the Raiders, hoping to provide their young quarterback with a reliable target. They also added defensive end Chase Young to bolster their pass rush. While these moves certainly address areas of need, they came at a steep price. The Jets surrendered multiple high draft picks in both deals, potentially mortgaging their future. Were the 2025 NFL Trade Deadline Grades fair to the Jets’ aggressiveness?
The Jets’ moves are reminiscent of other high-profile, in-season deals, as discussed in this article about where do the Jets trades rank among priciest in-season deals. It remains to be seen if the immediate boost justifies the long-term cost. It’s a high-risk, high-reward strategy that could propel them into contention or set them back for years to come.
Dallas Cowboys: Playing it Safe
In contrast to the Jets, the Dallas Cowboys took a more conservative approach. They made a minor move, acquiring a depth cornerback to improve their secondary. While this addition could prove valuable down the stretch, it’s unlikely to significantly alter their Super Bowl aspirations. Some fans may be disappointed that the Cowboys didn’t make a bigger splash, but their calculated approach could prevent them from making any short-sighted decisions. What do the 2025 NFL Trade Deadline Grades say about the Cowboys’ strategy?
Perhaps the Cowboys are focusing on internal improvements, hoping to see their young players develop and contribute more in the second half of the season. It’s a different philosophy than the Jets, but one that could ultimately prove more sustainable. It also avoids the kind of fan frustration seen when Jaxson Dart was in trouble with Giants fans. Sometimes, the best moves are the ones you don’t make.
Other Notable Trades and Grades
- San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers added another pass rusher to an already formidable defense. Grade: A
- Kansas City Chiefs: The Chiefs acquired a speedy receiver to help Patrick Mahomes. Grade: B+
- Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles stood pat, believing in their current roster. Grade: C+
The impact of these trades will unfold over the remainder of the season. It’s always fascinating to see how these mid-season acquisitions integrate into their new teams and affect the playoff picture. The first CFP rankings release of 2025 shows how quickly things can change, and the NFL is no different.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The New York Jets’ aggressive pursuit of Davante Adams and Chase Young certainly raised eyebrows, given the high draft capital they surrendered. Many expected them to be more conservative.
It’s debatable. While adding a significant piece could have boosted their Super Bowl chances, it’s also possible they avoided overpaying for a player who wouldn’t have made a substantial difference. Their approach could prove to be a smart long-term strategy.
Adams should immediately become the Jets’ top receiving target, providing a much-needed boost to their passing game. His chemistry with the quarterback will be crucial to their success. Hopefully, it won’t be another situation where fans are taunting other teams because of bad performance.
The Jets’ biggest risk is that the acquired players don’t perform up to expectations, leaving them without the draft picks they traded away. This could significantly hinder their ability to rebuild in the future if these moves don’t pay off.
The 2025 NFL Trade Deadline Grades are generally based on a combination of both potential and immediate impact. Factors considered include the value of assets acquired versus those given up, the player’s fit within the team’s system, and the likelihood of the trade improving the team’s chances of success in the short and long term.
