The tight end market could see some big names surface as trade candidates by midseason. Several franchises have invested in younger players, leaving veteran tight ends in uncertain situations. Here are a few notable players who could be moved before the deadline.
Tight Ends Who Could Be Traded by the 2025 NFL Trade Deadline
David Njoku – Cleveland Browns
David Njoku remains one of the most talented tight ends in the league. He has tremendous hands, creates mismatches against linebackers, and thrives in the red zone. However, Njoku is entering the final year of his contract, and the Browns drafted Harold Fannin Jr. in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Cleveland already trusts Fannin, as he drew nine targets in Week One and turned them into seven catches for 63 yards. With Fannin’s quick involvement in the offense, Njoku’s future becomes more uncertain. Trade rumors will heat up as the season progresses, and the Browns could look to flip him for draft capital rather than lose him in free agency if they don’t plan on extending him.
Cole Kmet is only 26 years old, but he already feels like a seasoned veteran. Entering his sixth year in the NFL, Kmet has proven to be a steady option in Chicago’s passing game. Standing at 6’6” with reliable hands, he still has plenty of good football left. However, the Bears spent a first-round pick on Michigan standout Colston Loveland, who offers a dynamic skill set and major upside. Chicago will want to feature Loveland more and more as the year progresses. That could put Kmet on the trade block by midseason, and several contending teams would view him as a valuable piece who can start right away.
Dawson Knox has seen his name in trade rumors for over a year. The Bills clearly view Dalton Kincaid as their long-term starter at tight end. On top of that, Buffalo added more depth by drafting Georgia Tech’s Jackson Hawes in the fifth round. At 28 years old, Knox brings veteran experience and playoff pedigree. He may not have elite production, but he can contribute as a dependable option. The Bills could decide to move him if a team offers mid-round draft compensation. A change of scenery might also help Knox rediscover his role as a trusted red zone target.
Longer Shot: Pat Freiermuth – Pittsburgh Steelers
A longer shot, but not out of the question, is Pat Freiermuth. The Steelers have quietly built depth at tight end, with Jonnu Smith and Darnell Washington also on the roster. New offensive coordinator Arthur Smith has a strong connection with Jonnu Smith, which could lead Pittsburgh to prioritize him in their long-term plans. If Jonnu earns an extension, the Steelers might be more willing to part with Freiermuth. At just 26 years old, he still offers reliable hands and proven production. A tight end-needy team could come calling before the deadline, making him a trade candidate worth monitoring. The Steelers could also use Freiermuth as trade bait to acquire a wide receiver.
TE trade market outlook
The NFL trade deadline always brings surprises, and the tight end position often flies under the radar. This season, players like Njoku, Kmet, Knox, and possibly Freiermuth could headline midseason trade talks. Teams looking for reliable red zone threats or veteran depth may find answers here. As the year unfolds, these names will be worth keeping an eye on.
Main Image: Scott Galvin – Imagn Images
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