2025 NFL Trade Deadline Recap: Eagles Strengthen, Jets Rebuild, Bills Miss Mark
The 2025 NFL trade deadline delivered a flurry of activity that reshaped several teams’ futures, highlighted by significant moves from the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, and Buffalo Bills. As teams positioned themselves for a playoff push or long-term rebuild, the biggest winners and losers emerged vividly across the league.
Eagles Make Key Additions to Address Needs
Philadelphia Eagles General Manager Howie Roseman made two headline-grabbing acquisitions to bolster an already competitive roster. First, the Eagles secured pass rusher Jaelan Phillips from the Miami Dolphins in exchange for a third-round pick. Phillips, a formidable presence with 26 sacks over his first five seasons, joins an Eagles defense looking to recapture its Super Bowl form after a 6–2 start to the season. Phillips’ trade came shortly after Miami fired GM Chris Grier due to a disappointing 2–6 start, appointing Champ Kelly as interim GM, who quickly moved Phillips.
Additionally, Philadelphia acquired elite cornerback Jaire Alexander from the Baltimore Ravens in a deal that included a late-round pick swap. Alexander, a two-time Pro Bowler at 28, fills a crucial spot in Philly’s secondary, strengthening their defensive backfield depth.
Earlier in the week, the Eagles also traded for cornerback Michael Carter II from the Jets, sending wide receiver John Metchie III and a 2027 sixth-round pick in return. Carter agreed to waive a key contract injury guarantee clause to facilitate the trade.
Jets Opt to Sell and Stockpile Draft Capital
Despite fan backlash over losing star players, the New York Jets took a strategic approach by trading two of their top defensive talents: cornerback Sauce Gardner and defensive lineman Quinnen Williams. Both had recently signed lucrative contract extensions but were shipped off as the Jets continue to struggle with a 1-7 record and offensive woes.
These trades netted New York an unprecedented haul of draft capital—receiving a combined five first-round picks over the next two years. The acquisitions position the Jets to address glaring roster holes, especially at quarterback, and embark on a full-scale rebuild under new head coach Aaron Glenn. The Jets also hold potential future contributors like wide receiver A.D. Mitchell and defensive lineman Mazi Smith as part of their youth movement.
Bills Strike Out at the Deadline
While the Eagles and Jets made significant headlines, the Buffalo Bills were among the teams that failed to deliver impactful moves to enhance their squad before the deadline. After a promising start to the season, the Bills’ inability to strike key deals leaves questions about whether they can maintain momentum through the playoffs.
Other Noteworthy Moves and Team Outcomes
- Jacksonville Jaguars quietly strengthened their receiving corps by acquiring Jakobi Meyers from the Las Vegas Raiders for two draft picks. Meyers is expected to fill a void left by injuries and complement rookie Travis Hunter, enhancing Jacksonville’s offense.
- The Dallas Cowboys made multiple trades to address defensive deficiencies, though there is debate whether they overpaid to shore up their back end.
- Overall, the 2025 trade deadline shattered records with more than two dozen players changing teams and three first-round picks dealing hands, tying the highest number in the past 25 years.
Outlook Ahead
The trade deadline transactions have already begun influencing team dynamics and playoff projections. The Eagles appear more fortified defensively, the Jets are committed to rebuilding with draft resources, and other teams are either doubling down on contention or quietly repositioning for the future. Fans and analysts will watch closely how these moves translate onto the field as the 2025 NFL season progresses.