Three surprising NFL teams that could be trade-deadline sellers

At the beginning of the NFL season, nobody expected several projected contenders to already be staring at a potential lost year after only four games. 

Teams that entered 2026 with playoff expectations are suddenly facing pressure to turn things around before the trade deadline gets closer. The Houston Texans and Los Angeles Chargers are especially surprising. 

Both were viewed as legitimate playoff contenders, with some even putting them in the Super Bowl conversation. Tampa Bay also entered the year expecting to compete for the division crown in the NFC South.

Instead, all three teams have started 0-4. If those struggles continue, the Chargers, Texans and Buccaneers could unexpectedly become NFL trade-deadline sellers.

Los Angeles Chargers

The Chargers entered the season with even higher expectations after bringing in Mike McDaniel as offensive coordinator. The hope was that McDaniel could unlock another level from Justin Herbert and help turn Los Angeles into a legitimate AFC contender.

Instead, Herbert has struggled, and the offense has failed to meet expectations. The situation becomes even more concerning when looking at what comes next. The Chargers' next five games come against the Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Rams, Houston Texans and Baltimore Ravens. If the Chargers continue struggling through that stretch, things could get ugly quickly.

Khalil Mack would immediately become one of the biggest names available. The veteran pass-rusher could help a contender looking to strengthen its defensive front. At 35 years old, Mack also makes sense as a player Los Angeles could move for future assets.

Donte Jackson would be another logical trade candidate. The veteran cornerback is playing on an expiring contract, which makes him a natural rental for a contender looking for secondary help. 

There will likely be a strong market for veteran corners by the trade deadline as injuries pile up and playoff teams look to strengthen their secondaries. At 30 years old, Jackson also should not cost a premium draft pick, making him an appealing option for teams looking for short-term help.

Houston Texans

Few teams entered the year with higher expectations than the Texans. Houston built an elite defense and a solid offense around C.J. Stroud, but a continuous ugly start could completely change its deadline approach.

Danielle Hunter would draw immediate interest from contenders. Proven pass-rushers always carry value around the deadline. Hunter could become one of the best defensive players available if Houston listens to offers.

Jadeveon Clowney could be another realistic option. He would not command the same return as Hunter, but teams looking for veteran defensive line depth could show interest.

Kamari Lassiter would represent a much more aggressive decision. The young cornerback carries plenty of value and could bring Houston a strong package. Moving him would signal that the Texans are looking beyond 2026 rather than making minor changes.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa Bay also entered the season expecting to compete for a playoff spot. Baker Mayfield hasn't been good, and he's now dealing with a thumb injury that will likely keep him out a few more weeks. A 0-4 start changes the team outlook significantly. If the losses continue piling up, the Buccaneers could become another unexpected seller.

YaYa Diaby could attract plenty of attention. Young pass-rushers rarely become available, which could make Diaby especially valuable if Tampa Bay listens to offers.

Zyon McCollum would also be an intriguing option. Teams constantly search for cornerback help, as not many teams are deep at the position. McCollum, only 27 years old, could generate a solid return from a contender looking to strengthen its secondary.

Running back Kenneth Gainwell could be easier to move. With Bucky Irving established in Tampa Bay's backfield, Gainwell could have value elsewhere as he really excels as a pass-catcher.

Nobody expected these three teams to become NFL trade-deadline sellers before the season. Their 0-4 starts have changed the conversation, and another few losses could force each front office to reconsider its plans.