The NFL’s 2024 trade deadline has passed, and several Super Bowl contenders made impactful moves to improve their chances of making a deep playoff run. With 18 trades involving 19 players since the start of the regular season, let’s look at the teams that made the most significant improvements.
Kansas City Chiefs
Acquired: DeAndre Hopkins, Josh Uche
The Chiefs, aiming for an unprecedented third straight Super Bowl title, strengthened their roster by acquiring veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. His arrival is already paying off, as he quickly became a top target, with eight receptions, 86 yards, and two touchdowns in his first home game at Arrowhead. Hopkins fills a crucial void in the Chiefs’ receiving corps, depleted by injuries. In addition, the Chiefs brought in pass rusher Josh Uche, who could add a much-needed spark to the defense outside of Chris Jones. If Uche can regain his 2022 form, the Chiefs’ already-strong defense will become even more formidable.
Baltimore Ravens
Acquired: Diontae Johnson, Tre’Davious White
The Ravens have the NFL’s top-ranked offense, including the No. 1 rushing attack, and further bolstered their squad with the acquisition of wide receiver Diontae Johnson and cornerback Tre’Davious White. Johnson adds another weapon to an already talented receiving group alongside Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. His crisp route running and ability to separate make him an excellent addition to Lamar Jackson’s offense. On the defensive side, White offers depth and experience in the secondary, even though he is no longer the Pro Bowl player he once was. Together, these additions give the Ravens a well-rounded roster that can challenge for a Super Bowl.
Detroit Lions
Acquired: Za’Darius Smith
In the NFC, the Lions made a key move by acquiring defensive end Za’Darius Smith from the Cleveland Browns. Smith, a 10-year veteran, has had a strong season with 26 pressures and five sacks. He provides an immediate boost to the defensive line, especially after the season-ending injury to Aidan Hutchinson. With Detroit’s offense already among the league’s best, adding Smith makes them a more complete team, and they are more determined than ever to secure a Super Bowl berth.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Acquired: Mike Williams, Preston Smith
The Steelers, sitting at 6-2, are looking to build on their solid start with key additions. They picked up wide receiver Mike Williams, who has the potential to form a dangerous duo with George Pickens. Williams, known for his ability to make big plays, adds a deep threat to Pittsburgh’s offense. In addition, they brought in outside linebacker Preston Smith, providing much-needed depth behind T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. The Steelers are looking to make another playoff run with a strong defense and now a more potent offense.
Washington Commanders
Acquired: Marshon Lattimore
The Commanders made a key defensive upgrade by trading for cornerback Marshon Lattimore. Lattimore is immediately the best cover corner on the roster and will help shore up a secondary that was lacking a true No. 1 cornerback. With a strong defense and an emerging offense led by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, Washington could be poised for a playoff push, which would mark their first postseason appearance since 2020.
These teams made significant moves at the deadline, adding key pieces to their rosters. As we head into the final stretch of the regular season, these trades could make the difference in achieving their Super Bowl goals.
- Step-by-Step Guide to Claiming Social Security Outside the United States - December 26, 2024
- Updated Social Security: New SSI Payment Dates for 2025 - December 26, 2024
- 3 Million Public Employees Set to Benefit from Social Security Pensions Reform - December 26, 2024
