2024 NFL trade deadline winners and losers

The 2024 NFL trade deadline passed with a whisper rather than a bang, featuring fewer headline-grabbing deals than foreseen.

While some teams made well-thought-out moves to strengthen their rosters, others wondered if more could have been done.

Winners

One of the day’s big winners was the Carolina Panthers, who traded Jonathan Mingo for a valuable fourth-round pick. Although Mingo had fallen in the Panthers’ receiver depth chart, Carolina’s ability to get meaningful draft compensation for him is a win, particularly during an otherwise tough season.

The Detroit Lions also made an important move by adding pass rusher Za’Darius Smith, addressing a clear roster need. By giving up only a fifth- and sixth-round pick in exchange, the Lions made a savvy addition that enhances their defensive depth without compromising future draft assets. A proven talent, Smith could provide support in the long run instead of injured Aidan Hutchinson, bracing Detroit’s playoff push.

Additionally, the Washington Commanders made one of the boldest moves of the day by acquiring star cornerback Marshon Lattimore from the New Orleans Saints. In return, the Saints received a mix of third- through sixth-round picks. The move gives Lattimore a fresh start on a contending team and brings Washington an elite defensive playmaker while New Orleans gains draft capital to aid their rebuild.

Pre-Deadline Winners

Teams that moved early also reaped benefits. The Kansas City Chiefs acquired DeAndre Hopkins weeks before the deadline, and the veteran wide receiver made an immediate impact.

The Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens added key offensive players, Amari Cooper and Deonte Johnson, respectively, bolstering their rosters before the season’s critical stretch.

Losers

One of the notable losers was the Dallas Cowboys, who gave up a fourth-round pick for Jonathan Mingo—a receiver who has struggled to make a mark. Many felt this trade was unnecessary, given Mingo’s lack of production and the Cowboys’ crowded receiver corps, leading some to question the rationale behind the move.

The Cincinnati Bengals also left analysts puzzled. Despite a clear need for defensive help, they made only a minor move by adding Khalil Herbert, a running back, while opting not to pursue defensive upgrades. With the Bengals' defensive struggles, many felt Cincinnati missed a valuable opportunity to address a pressing need.

Fans hoping for an exciting trade deadline were disappointed. While a few significant trades occurred, overall activity was limited, similar to last year. This has led some to suggest pushing the deadline back to give teams more time to assess their needs.

Conclusion

Despite a relatively quiet day, a handful of teams came out as clear winners, taking advantage of opportunities to enhance their rosters.

However, for many teams—and the NFL fans who expected blockbuster deals—the 2024 NFL trade deadline felt more like a day of missed opportunities.