According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, two wide receivers have emerged as top trade candidates ahead of the upcoming NFL trade deadline: Diontae Johnson and Christian Kirk. This year’s deadline has already seen significant receiver movement, with stars like Davante Adams heading to the Jets, Amari Cooper joining the Bills, and DeAndre Hopkins making his way to the Chiefs.
Rumors initially suggested that Cooper Kupp might be traded as well, but the Rams now seem committed to keeping him.
Diontae Johnson, currently with the Carolina Panthers, has reportedly attracted interest from multiple teams, and Carolina is believed to be seeking a mid-round draft pick in exchange.
Johnson’s affordability — his $3.5 million salary — makes him an attractive option for teams in need of receiver depth. This season, Johnson has posted 30 receptions, 357 yards, and 3 touchdowns, making him a productive yet budget-friendly option for contenders.
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Christian Kirk, in his third season with the Jacksonville Jaguars, is also generating interest. Kirk was signed as a major free-agent acquisition by Jacksonville in 2022, a year in which he recorded an impressive 1,108 receiving yards.
This season, he’s added another 320 yards and a touchdown on 25 receptions. With one year remaining on his contract, Kirk could provide a high-impact addition for teams looking for a longer-term receiver option.
Alongside Johnson and Kirk, Jets receiver Mike Williams has reportedly drawn interest, as both the Pittsburgh Steelers and Los Angeles Chargers are actively seeking wide receiver reinforcements to bolster their offenses.
As the trade deadline approaches, it’s clear that front offices are assessing their rosters, with some teams pushing to add talent for a playoff run.
Johnson and Kirk, given their productivity and favorable contracts, could find themselves in new uniforms soon, making them players to watch in the days leading up to the deadline.
