NFL Draft Trade Candidates: Dynasty Impact, Landing Spots & Pre-Draft Value
Kevin identifies which veterans could be on the move during the NFL Draft, and how will those trades impact dynasty value, team fits, and your next fantasy trade offer?
The NFL Draft always brings chaos, but it's not just the rookies who shift the landscape—veterans can be on the move too. Each year, we see trades shake up depth charts, change team needs, and open (or close) doors for fantasy relevance. With the 2025 NFL Draft just days away, several names are swirling in trade rumors that could significantly alter the dynasty landscape.
In this article, we’ll break down which players could be moved before or during the draft, identify realistic landing spots, and analyze what those moves would mean for their value. We’ll also give you a snapshot of their current dynasty outlook before any trade buzz becomes reality—plus actionable trade ideas you can use to get ahead of your league mates. Whether you're rebuilding, contending, or just looking to capitalize on the chaos, this is your cheat sheet to navigating the pre-draft smoke and fire.
Kirk Cousins, QB – Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons shocked the NFL world when they drafted Michael Penix Jr. with the 8th overall pick—just weeks after handing Kirk Cousins a $180 million contract. That move made it clear Penix is their future, and maybe even their present. It also puts Cousins in a weird spot: is he a high-priced insurance policy or a trade chip?
Cousins is still working his way back from that Achilles injury, and while his arm talent hasn’t completely fallen off, he didn’t look like the same guy last season. The Falcons say they’re fine with keeping him as a backup, but this team has holes—especially on defense—and eating that salary just to keep Cousins on the bench feels like a waste of resources.
If Atlanta is serious about making a playoff push, they may try to flip Cousins to a QB-needy team and use the freed-up money or draft picks to fill more urgent needs. Cleveland makes sense given the Kevin Stefanski connection, and there’s been smoke around the Steelers too. If they’re not sold on Aaron Rodgers—or eyeing a faller like Shedeur Sanders—Cousins could be a bridge option. Wherever he lands, his dynasty value hinges on opportunity. For now, he's a stash in Superflex leagues with upside if he gets a shot to start somewhere else.
Dynasty Trade Market for Kirk Cousins
Here’s how Kirk Cousins is valued in dynasty trades:
Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)
Kirk Cousins FOR Stefon Diggs
Kirk Cousins/Travis Etienne FOR Khalil Shakir
Kirk Cousins/2026 1st FOR Bryce Young
Kirk Cousins FOR 2.12
Kirk Cousins/4.11 FOR Joe Milton
D’Andre Swift, RB – Chicago Bears
The Bears quietly guaranteed D’Andre Swift $8 million this offseason, but that doesn't mean they’re committed to him long term—especially with rumors tying them to Boise State star Ashton Jeanty at 10 overall. Even if they pass on Jeanty, they’ve got two second-rounders, and this is a deep class at the position. Translation: Swift's grip on the RB1 job isn’t safe.
Swift was solid last year, but not spectacular. His 2024 performance felt like more of the same—some flashes, but inconsistent overall. If the Bears invest premium capital in a rookie, don’t be surprised if Swift becomes the odd man out. Whether he’s traded during the draft or sticks around as a short-term starter, dynasty managers should be cautious. He’s a potential sell if buzz starts building and an interesting buy-low if he lands somewhere that believes in him.
Dynasty Trade Market for D’Andre Swift
Here’s how D’Andre Swift is valued in dynasty trades:
Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)
D’Andre Swift FOR Aaron Rodgers/2027 3rd
D’Andre Swift FOR 2.08
D’Andre Swift FOR Jordan Whittington/Noah Fant
D’Andre Swift FOR 2.03
D’Andre Swift FOR Kendre Miller
Tyreek Hill, WR – Miami Dolphins
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