From CBS Sports · · 3m
Three NFL Trades Teams Regret Not Making
Three NFL teams missed critical trade deals by the 2026 deadline.
In brief
Three NFL teams missed critical trade deals by the 2026 deadline. The New York Giants, Los Angeles Rams, and Tennessee Titans could have improved their playoff chances by trading for Jonathan Taylor, Brian Thomas Jr., and Tony Pollard before the 2026 trade deadline. Originally reported by CBS Sports.
2026 Trade Deadline Day
The 2026 trade deadline day didn't produce fireworks like last year when the New York Jets dealt their best two defensive players.
Minnesota Vikings Reunion
The most consequential deadline day move was the Minnesota Vikings' reunion with Kirk Cousins, who was the team's quarterback from 2018 through 2023.
Jacksonville Jaguars Moves
The Jacksonville Jaguars acquired safety Jessie Bates III and defensive tackle Jordan Davis with aggressive trades to win Super Bowl LXI.
Colts' Trade for Taylor
The Indianapolis Colts could have traded running back Jonathan Taylor to the New York Giants for a 2027 second-round pick and 2028 third-round pick.
Taylor's 2026 Salary
Jonathan Taylor's remaining 2026 salary is $3.97 million with $4.60 million in salary cap savings for the Giants.
Colts' Fire Sale
The Colts went into fire sale mode after firing general manager Chris Ballard six games into the season.
Taylor's Trade Value
The Colts reportedly wanted a first-round pick or something comparable to the 2023 second, third, and fourth-round picks and the 2024 fifth-round pick the Carolina Panthers received from the San Francisco 49ers for All-Pro running…
Rams' Trade for Thomas
The Los Angeles Rams could have acquired wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. from the Jacksonville Jaguars for a 2027 second-round pick.
Thomas' 2026 Salary
Brian Thomas Jr.'s remaining 2026 salary is $537,500 with $537,500 in salary cap savings for the Rams.
Thomas' Struggles
After his stellar 2024 rookie season, Thomas has struggled with only 10 receptions, 117 receiving yards, and two touchdowns in eight games this season.
Rams' Injury Issues
The Rams have injuries to Davante Adams and Puka Nacua, with Adams expected to miss six to ten weeks and Nacua likely out for a month.
Packers' Running Game
The Green Bay Packers need a running back boost after Josh Jacobs' injury and poor performance.
Tony Pollard Trade
The Tennessee Titans could have traded running back Tony Pollard to the Green Bay Packers for a conditional 2027 fourth-round pick.
Pollard's 2026 Salary
Tony Pollard's remaining 2026 salary is $3.61 million with $3.64 million in salary cap savings for the Packers.
Titans' Weak Record
The Tennessee Titans have a 1-7 record and are struggling with key trades.
At a glance
The New York Giants, Los Angeles Rams, and Tennessee Titans could have improved their playoff chances by trading for Jonathan Taylor, Brian Thomas Jr., and Tony Pollard before the 2026 trade deadline.
