The 2026 NFL trade deadline is approaching, giving teams one final opportunity to strengthen their rosters, address weaknesses and make significant moves before the second half of the season. With several major trades already completed, attention is turning toward Tuesday’s deadline and the players who could still change teams.
So, when is the NFL trade deadline in 2026? The deadline is Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 4 p.m. ET. After that time, NFL teams will no longer be able to complete standard trades for the remainder of the regular season.
With Week 9 in the books, several contenders are evaluating their championship chances, while rebuilding franchises are considering whether to exchange established players for valuable draft picks.
When Is the NFL Trade Deadline in 2026?
The 2026 NFL trade deadline is scheduled for Tuesday, November 10, at 4 p.m. Eastern Time (ET).
This is the final cutoff for teams looking to complete trades during the 2026 regular season. Front offices are working against the clock to negotiate deals, evaluate player availability and determine whether adding a new contributor could improve their chances of reaching the playoffs.
The deadline is particularly important this season because several high-profile players have already been involved in trade discussions, including Jonathan Taylor, Jessie Bates III and Will McDonald IV.
Teams must finalize their transactions before the 4 p.m. ET cutoff.
What Time Is the NFL Trade Deadline?
The NFL trade deadline arrives at 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, November 10.
For fans following the deadline from different time zones, here are the corresponding times:
- Eastern Time (ET): 4 p.m.
- Central Time (CT): 3 p.m.
- Mountain Time (MT): 2 p.m.
- Pacific Time (PT): 1 p.m.
- India Standard Time (IST): 2:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 11.
Fans can follow NFL trade deadline live updates to track completed transactions, breaking reports and last-minute rumors.
Biggest NFL Trade Deadline Rumors to Watch
Several storylines are attracting attention as teams approach the deadline. Jonathan Taylor’s future in Indianapolis, Will McDonald IV’s trade request and the latest moves involving the Jacksonville Jaguars and Atlanta Falcons are among the biggest talking points.
Jonathan Taylor Trade Rumors: Will the Giants Make a Move?
Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor remains one of the biggest names connected to the 2026 NFL trade deadline.
The New York Giants have reportedly explored the possibility of acquiring Taylor as they look to improve their running game. Injuries to Cam Skattebo and Tyrone Tracy have created concerns in the backfield, while Devin Singletary struggled to produce against the Philadelphia Eagles.
However, the Colts’ reported asking price has complicated negotiations. Indianapolis is believed to value Taylor at a first-round draft pick, making a potential deal difficult for interested teams.
Giants head coach John Harbaugh addressed the speculation following his team’s 19-11 victory over Philadelphia.
Harbaugh indicated that the Giants remain open to different possibilities but emphasized that trade discussions can change quickly.
He also made clear that the organization does not want to sacrifice valuable draft capital for a short-term solution unless the opportunity makes sense.
Taylor, meanwhile, acknowledged that his future with Indianapolis remains uncertain. Following Sunday’s game, he expressed gratitude toward the city and franchise, suggesting that a departure could be possible.
Will McDonald IV Requests a Trade From the Jets
New York Jets pass rusher Will McDonald IV is another player attracting attention before the deadline.
According to NFL Network, McDonald has requested a trade because of frustration with his role and playing time this season.
The former first-round selection has recorded three sacks in 2026 but has started only two games while playing approximately half of the Jets’ defensive snaps.
McDonald enjoyed more prominent roles during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, recording 18.5 sacks across those two campaigns.
However, rookie linebacker David Bailey, the second overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, has emerged as the Jets’ primary pass-rushing option.
One potential obstacle to a trade is McDonald’s fully guaranteed $13.7 million fifth-year option for 2027. Any interested team would need to consider that financial commitment before completing a deal.
Jessie Bates III Traded From Falcons to Jaguars
One of the biggest moves ahead of the NFL trade deadline involves safety Jessie Bates III.
The Atlanta Falcons have agreed to send the three-time second-team All-Pro safety to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
According to the reported terms, Atlanta will receive a 2027 second-round draft pick and a 2028 fifth-round selection.
The move represents an important addition for Jacksonville, which recently lost safety Eric Murray to a season-ending injury.
Bates brings considerable experience, leadership and consistency to the Jaguars’ secondary. His arrival could strengthen a defense that already features important contributors such as Josh Hines-Allen and Foyesade Oluokun.
For Atlanta, the trade signals a willingness to look toward future draft assets rather than maintain its current roster.
NFL Trade Deadline: Major Deals Completed in 2026
Several notable transactions have already taken place before the November 10 deadline.
Here is a recap of the major reported moves:
| Date | Trade |
|---|---|
| September 28 | Giants acquire QB J.J. McCarthy from Vikings |
| October 1 | Cowboys acquire CB Joey Porter Jr. from Steelers |
| October 7 | Ravens acquire OL Cam Jurgens from Eagles |
| October 12 | Texans acquire WR Marvin Harrison Jr. from Cardinals |
| October 27 | Seahawks acquire OL Quenton Nelson |
| October 28 | Colts trade DeForest Buckner |
| October 29 | Bears acquire Jeffery Simmons from Titans |
| November 4 | Ravens acquire QB Jacoby Brissett |
| November 9 | Jaguars acquire S Jessie Bates III from Falcons |
These transactions have already reshaped several rosters, with teams making aggressive decisions to address weaknesses or collect future draft capital.
Are the Giants Still Interested in Jonathan Taylor?
The Giants’ interest in Jonathan Taylor remains an important storyline heading into the final hours before the deadline.
New York is currently 5-2-1 and sits in a strong position in the NFC East. The team has reasons to pursue additional offensive help, particularly after injuries affected its running back depth.
However, Indianapolis has not shown much willingness to lower its asking price.
The Giants reportedly explored a deal involving a second-round and fifth-round pick, but that offer was subsequently reported to have been withdrawn.
Harbaugh has not completely ruled out another attempt, leaving the possibility open if negotiations change before Tuesday afternoon.
The Giants are also considering defensive line help, meaning their front office must decide which position deserves the most attention.
Will Daniel Jones Be Traded Before the NFL Deadline?
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones has also been connected to trade speculation following the franchise’s recent roster changes.
However, reports indicate that the Colts have informed Jones they do not intend to trade him before the November 10 deadline.
Jones has expressed confidence in the team’s direction and his relationship with head coach Shane Steichen.
With the Colts already making significant moves involving Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner, keeping their starting quarterback could provide some stability amid the organization’s changes.
Why Is the NFL Trade Deadline Important?
The NFL trade deadline gives teams a final opportunity to improve their rosters through trades during the regular season.
Contenders can acquire experienced players to strengthen positions of weakness, while rebuilding teams can exchange veterans for future draft selections.
The deadline can also have a significant impact on NFL standings, playoff races and Super Bowl expectations.
For example, Jacksonville’s acquisition of Jessie Bates III could strengthen its postseason ambitions, while Atlanta’s decision to trade a key defensive leader suggests a different approach.
Similarly, the Giants must determine whether adding Jonathan Taylor or another player could improve their chances of competing in the NFC East.
What Happens After the NFL Trade Deadline?
Once the deadline passes at 4 p.m. ET on November 10, teams cannot complete standard player trades until the next applicable trading period.
However, teams can continue making roster adjustments through other permitted transactions, including signing eligible free agents and making waiver-related moves.
The trade deadline does not end roster management. Instead, it shifts the focus toward developing existing players, managing injuries and preparing for the remaining regular-season games.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 NFL trade deadline is Tuesday, November 10, at 4 p.m. ET, and several major storylines remain unresolved.
Jonathan Taylor’s potential departure from Indianapolis, Will McDonald IV’s trade request and the impact of Jessie Bates III joining Jacksonville are among the biggest developments.
With teams racing against the clock, the final hours could bring additional surprises. Fans should keep an eye on the latest NFL trade deadline news and rumors as franchises make their final decisions before the cutoff.
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