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Analysts Map Likely Trade Hotspots for 2026 NFL Draft

Teams’ caution with 2027 assets could keep moves clustered late.

Overview

  • PFF projects at least three first-round trades, with most activity likely near the back of Round 1.
  • From 2016 to 2025, drafts averaged about 5.5 first-round trades, with fewer in the last two years and few inside the top 10.
  • Late first-round swaps are common because the cost to move is lower and the fifth-year contract option adds value.
  • USA TODAY tips the Steelers, Jaguars, and Patriots as trade-up candidates, with the Chargers, Seahawks, and Cowboys more likely to trade down.
  • PFF notes Dallas holds extra first-round picks in the next two drafts, a cushion that could also support a move up if a target falls.