Home / Sports / NFL Deadline: Jaguars go all-in, Bengals fumble deal
NFL Deadline: Jaguars go all-in, Bengals fumble deal
11 Nov
Summary
- Kirk Cousins returns to Vikings, boosting their QB position.
- Jaguars aggressively acquire three players for Super Bowl push.
- Bengals botched a trade due to a compensatory pick miscalculation.
The 2026 NFL trade deadline concluded with significant player movement, highlighted by Kirk Cousins returning to the Minnesota Vikings. Cousins was acquired from the Las Vegas Raiders for a third-round pick, addressing the Vikings' immediate quarterback needs following Kyler Murray's struggles and Carson Wentz's poor performance. This move is expected to bolster the Vikings' offense, particularly for star receiver Justin Jefferson.
The Jacksonville Jaguars made a decisive push for a championship, executing multiple trades to strengthen their roster. Key acquisitions included safety Jessie Bates III, defensive tackle Davon Godchaux, and defensive tackle Jordan Davis. These moves underscore the Jaguars' commitment to competing for the top seed in the AFC, despite the substantial draft capital invested.
In a notable blunder, the Cincinnati Bengals attempted to trade for pass rusher Arnold Ebiketie but backed out after realizing the deal would also cost them a third-round compensatory pick. This miscalculation by the front office has drawn criticism and highlighted a need for improved compensatory pick management.
Other significant deadline activities included the Kansas City Chiefs acquiring wide receiver Josh Downs and teams like the Buffalo Bills making moves to enhance their rosters for the postseason push. Conversely, running backs saw no major trades, with Jonathan Taylor, Derrick Henry, and Tony Pollard remaining with their respective teams.
