Rebuilding Dynasty Trades

Kevin analyzes recent dynasty trades that have been completed in leagues across the format!

The trade deadline is fast approaching, and for dynasty managers in rebuild mode, this might be your last chance to reshape your roster for the future. Every trade featured in this article comes straight from real leagues across the format—proving these deals aren't just theoretical but achievable in active leagues. Whether you're aiming to offload veterans, acquire draft picks, or secure cornerstone players, now is the time to make those critical moves.

If you're looking for a deeper dive into rebuild strategies, I've recently released a video outlining a complete roadmap to navigating a teardown and retooling your dynasty squad. You can find that video linked below, offering additional insights to guide you through this pivotal phase in your dynasty journey.

Dynasty Rebuild Video!

Dynasty Trade #1

This trade is a fantastic move for a rebuilding team, offering both immediate talent and long-term flexibility. Bobbyriccx99 acquires Brandon Aiyuk, a consistent producer with WR1 upside, alongside a valuable 2025 first-round pick and a 2026 second-rounder. In exchange, they move Aaron Jones, Chase Brown, and Kyle Pitts—assets that carry varying levels of uncertainty.

Chase Brown has shown flashes of becoming a reliable lead back for the Bengals, especially after injuries cleared his path to more touches. Similarly, Kyle Pitts, once hailed as a generational talent, has struggled with inconsistency, injuries, and lackluster quarterback play. Despite glimpses of his potential, his production doesn’t match his draft pedigree, making it a smart time to move him.

This deal not only brings in Aiyuk, who, prior to his injury, had solidified himself as a top-10 dynasty receiver but also sets up the team with critical draft capital to continue rebuilding. Aiyuk is a great buy-low candidate for a rebuilder. Turning uncertain assets into a proven wide receiver and future picks is a savvy play for anyone looking to retool their roster and focus on the long-term game.

Dynasty Trade #2

This trade is another savvy move for a rebuilding team, with Bobbyriccx99 acquiring Chris Godwin, a 2025 second-round pick, and a 2026 first-round pick. Godwin, coming off a season-ending injury, is a strong addition to any roster. Despite the injury, his career numbers—7,266 receiving yards and 39 touchdowns—highlight his consistent production. Before the injury in 2024, he posted 50 receptions for 576 yards and five touchdowns. The injury doesn’t appear career-threatening, and as a pending free agent, Godwin could land in a better situation than Tampa Bay, setting him up for a strong bounce-back in 2025.

On the flip side, George Pickens is a volatile asset, with his feast-or-famine weeks making him difficult to rely on consistently. While Brian Robinson is a solid player, moving a 25-year-old running back for a first-round pick, a second-round pick, and an established wide receiver like Godwin is excellent value. This trade not only strengthens Bobbyriccx99's roster but also provides the draft capital needed for long-term success.

Dynasty Trade #3

This trade heavily favors Chinox, who acquires Justin Herbert without surrendering a first-round pick—a massive win for a rebuilding roster. Herbert, a proven fantasy QB1, has been a consistent performer, with standout weeks of 24+ points against the Saints and Bengals in 2024. Despite facing the 10th hardest QB fantasy schedule so far, Herbert has thrived and now benefits from the sixth-easiest rest-of-season schedule. The Chargers have also leaned into a more pass-heavy offense post-bye, with Herbert showing increased mobility, suggesting his foot injury is improving. Looking ahead, L.A. could bolster its offense in 2025 with a true WR1 or TE1, further solidifying Herbert’s value.

In contrast, Ameer95’s return leans on potential rather than proven production. J.J. McCarthy, while intriguing as a developmental QB, is a clear downgrade from Herbert. Drew Lock offers little more than depth, and the 2025 2nd and 3rd-round picks, while useful, are unlikely to yield an asset comparable to Herbert. For Chinox, landing a top-tier QB like Herbert at this price sets them up for both immediate and long-term success, making this a clear win for their rebuild.

Dynasty Trade #4

This trade represents an ideal move for a rebuilding team, as RaisingZabar offloads Tyreek Hill, whose production has significantly declined in 2024, in exchange for Rashee Rice and a 2026 second-round pick. Hill’s role in Miami’s offense has diminished, as evidenced by a drop in key metrics like target share (from 32.5% in 2023 to 21.2% in 2024) and air yard share (43.3% to 36.7%). Additionally, his explosiveness has waned, with a sharp decline in explosive catches (46.8% to 30.4%). While Hill’s touchdown numbers and occasional big plays have kept his fantasy output respectable, his reliability as a weekly starter has eroded, making now an opportune time to sell high.

On the flip side, Rashee Rice represents a promising asset, already commanding a significant 33.7% target share in Kansas City’s offense when he was healthy this season. Rice has demonstrated elite efficiency and explosiveness, outperforming eveyr reciever on the roster. Given Patrick Mahomes’ trust in Rice and his clear WR1 status in Kansas City, Rice’s long-term outlook is incredibly bright. When coupled with the 2026 second-round pick, RaisingZabar has positioned themselves for sustained success by acquiring a high-upside young player and additional draft capital. This is a clear win for any team in a rebuild, making it one of the most favorable trades of the season.

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Dynasty Trade #5

This trade of Justin Herbert for two 2025 first-round picks is a solid move if you're entering a rebuild. While losing a top-tier quarterback like Herbert in a Superflex league is not ideal, the return provides significant flexibility. Herbert's value is typically around one first-round pick plus a lesser asset, so getting two firsts is a great haul. These picks can serve as key building blocks for your roster, whether you use them to draft young talent or package them in trades for other assets.

The key to making this trade successful is league activity. In a dynamic league with active managers, draft picks can quickly turn into premium players or high-upside prospects. If you're confident in your ability to leverage the picks effectively, this deal positions your team well for long-term success. While Herbert's departure creates a void, the flexibility gained from two first-rounders outweighs the immediate loss, especially if you already have other quarterbacks or plan to target one in the draft.

Overall, this trade aligns perfectly with a rebuilding strategy. It provides the necessary tools to reshape your team and stay competitive in future seasons. Just ensure you're proactive in maximizing the value of those picks within your league's ecosystem.

Dynasty Trade #6

This trade is an excellent move for the rebuilding team acquiring CeeDee Lamb. Rebuilding managers often fall into the trap of acquiring "hope" assets like DK Metcalf, Ricky Pearsall, or draft picks, but this manager secured a top-5 dynasty wide receiver in Lamb. When paired with a healthy Dak Prescott, Lamb is a consistent WR1, delivering elite production week in and week out. In contrast, Metcalf, while still valuable, is aging and could soon lose target share to Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Pearsall is a long-shot prospect, and a 2025 second-round pick doesn’t come close to matching Lamb’s immense value.

Lamb’s 2023 numbers highlight his elite status. With Prescott under center, Lamb scored 336 PPR points, second only to Christian McCaffrey. In addition to leading the league in catches and targets, he showcased versatility by adding 14 carries for 114 yards and two touchdowns, finishing the season with 14 total touchdowns. Lamb’s all-around dominance solidifies his place as a cornerstone asset for any rebuilding team. This deal reflects a smart, proactive strategy, prioritizing proven elite talent over uncertain future potential and an aging asset.

Dynasty Trade #7

This trade of Marvin Harrison Jr. and a 2025 second-round pick for Dallas Goedert and A.J. Brown is a fantastic deal for a rebuilding team acquiring Harrison. While Harrison’s rookie season has been inconsistent, his long-term value as the potential WR1 of the 2024 class and a cornerstone dynasty asset makes him worth the investment. Despite averaging 11.5 fantasy points per game and ranking 30th among fantasy wide receivers, his production has been limited more by the Cardinals’ offensive struggles than his talent. Issues with protection and play design have stifled his opportunities, relegating him to a "decoy" role in many situations. However, Harrison’s elite talent, combined with the likelihood of increased targets in the future, makes him a foundational piece for rebuilding teams. I think he could even have some top 12 weeks coming as the Arizona schedule plays out.

On the other side, A.J. Brown and Dallas Goedert are excellent players but are more suited for contending rosters than rebuilders. Brown is a top-tier wide receiver in his late prime, and Goedert is a reliable tight end who has dealt with injuries this season, but their win-now value diminishes for a team looking to rebuild. Harrison offers significantly more long-term upside, while the 2025 second adds future flexibility. Moving off aging assets like Brown and Goedert for Harrison is a smash trade for a rebuilder, as it prioritizes acquiring a young, high-upside talent who can lead a roster for years to come.

Dynasty Trade #8

This trade of A.J. Brown for Jaguars WR Brian Thomas Jr. straight up is a bold move, but one that makes a lot of sense if you're prioritizing youth and upside in dynasty. Thomas has quickly established himself as Jacksonville's most reliable offensive weapon and one of the standout rookies of the year. With 46 receptions, 765 yards, and six touchdowns on the season, including multiple splash plays and a 100-yard game, he’s proving he has the talent to be a top-12 dynasty wide receiver. His connection with Trevor Lawrence adds to his long-term appeal, and depending on quarterback situations, BTJ could even outscore Brown for the rest of the season.

While A.J. Brown remains one of the league's premier wide receivers, trading him for Thomas represents a slight tier down with the added benefit of getting younger at the position. For managers looking to transition their roster to a younger core, this is a savvy move. Thomas offers significant potential to grow into a cornerstone dynasty asset while providing immediate production. This deal is a win for anyone embracing the future without sacrificing too much in the present.

Christian McCaffrey Dynasty Buy