NFL Rumors: Cardinals, Commanders, and Vikings Among ‘Likely’ Draft Trade Candidates
As the 2025 NFL Draft rapidly approaches, the buzz around potential trade scenarios is heating up. While fans and analysts have spent months poring over mock drafts and big boards, it’s important to remember that all it takes is one trade to shake up the entire draft landscape. A quarterback who was once expected to slide into the late teens could suddenly be snatched up in the high teens, or a top-tier tight end could fall out of range for teams hoping to secure him. Likewise, the top running backs may see their draft positions drop if a few key teams opt to trade down for additional assets.
But which teams are most likely to make a move that could disrupt the draft board? ESPN analysts have weighed in, naming three teams as prime candidates for trades that could alter the course of the first round.
First up, the Arizona Cardinals. With the 16th overall pick, the Cardinals are no strangers to trading up or down in the draft to maximize their picks. In recent years, they’ve had substantial draft classes—12 picks in 2024 and 9 in 2023—and they may look to add more assets this year as well. With only six picks in 2025, GM Monti Ossenfort may look to move down from the 16th spot to accumulate additional picks, especially considering Arizona’s recent free-agent additions like Josh Sweat, Dalvin Tomlinson, and Calais Campbell. While the team has bolstered its defensive line, they may still look to add depth in this area.
Another team on the radar is the Washington Commanders, according to ESPN’s Field Yates. Washington has had a busy and aggressive offseason, making several high-profile moves, and it’s likely they’ll continue that trend during the draft. The Commanders could opt to trade up or down in the first round, depending on the players still available, as they continue to build a competitive roster under new leadership.
Finally, the Minnesota Vikings have also been mentioned as a potential trade candidate. As teams look to secure key players for their future, Minnesota could be in a prime position to shake things up with a well-timed move in the first round.
As we approach draft day, these three teams—Arizona, Washington, and Minnesota—are all in a position to make a trade that could send ripples through the entire draft order. Stay tuned to see how these potential moves might affect the first round and beyond.