NFL trade deadline 2026 is set for Nov. 10, and teams have already made several moves that could shape the season. From a corner swap to a quarterback gamble, early deals are changing rosters across the league. Here is how the biggest trades rank so far, based on NFL.com’s grades.
1. Eagles and Ravens Swap Cam Jurgens for Picks
This Oct. 7 deal is the best of the NFL trade deadline 2026 so far. Philadelphia sent center Cam Jurgens and a 2027 seventh-round pick to Baltimore for a 2027 fifth-rounder and a 2028 second-rounder. The Eagles earned an A-, since Jurgens struggled badly after moving to left guard and was close to being benched. The Ravens earned a B+ because their center spot has been hit hard by injuries and Jurgens is under cheap team control through 2029. He is in the concussion protocol, so his health is the main risk.
2. Joey Porter Jr. Heads to Dallas
On Oct. 1, the Steelers traded cornerback Joey Porter Jr. to the Cowboys for a 2027 sixth-round pick and a 2028 second-rounder, ending a contract standoff. Dallas earned an A- for adding a physical cover corner without giving up a premium pick until 2028. Pittsburgh earned a C+, with NFL.com arguing that the late timing of the impasse cost the Steelers value. This NFL trade deadline 2026 move also leaves them thin and young at cornerback.
3. Marvin Harrison Jr. Gets a Fresh Start in Houston
The Cardinals sent the former No. 4 overall pick and a 2027 sixth-rounder to the Texans for a 2027 second-rounder and a seventh. Arizona earned a B+ for getting strong value, since Harrison had just five catches for 85 yards in four games. Houston received a C because the price is steep for a receiver who has produced little. The 1-4 Texans are betting that reuniting him with C.J. Stroud helps. It is one of the riskiest NFL trade deadline 2026 gambles.
4. Giants Take a Shot on J.J. McCarthy
After Jaxson Dart went down with a season-ending knee injury, New York acquired the Vikings quarterback on Sept. 28 for a 2027 fifth-round pick. Both teams earned middling grades, a C for the Giants and a C+ for Minnesota. The price is low for a former first-rounder, but it is a modest return on what the Vikings invested. Jameis Winston remains the Giants’ starter for now. In this NFL trade deadline 2026 class, McCarthy is purely a low-cost dart throw.
What the Early Deals Mean for the NFL Trade Deadline 2026
Contenders and rebuilding teams are both willing to move picks, especially for second-rounders in future drafts. With weeks left, more activity is likely. For more weekly breakdowns, follow our latest NFL news and analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the NFL trade deadline 2026?
The deadline is Nov. 10.
Who did the Texans get from Arizona?
Houston acquired receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. and a 2027 sixth-round pick for a 2027 second-rounder and a seventh.
Why did the Steelers trade Joey Porter Jr.?
A contract dispute led to the trade, and Pittsburgh received a 2027 sixth-round pick and a 2028 second-rounder from Dallas.
Which NFL trade deadline 2026 deal got the best grade?
The Eagles’ trade of Cam Jurgens and the Cowboys’ Porter acquisition each earned an A- on one side.