The 2026 NFL season might be a little more than a month away, but rosters aren't locked in quite yet. Training camp brings hope, optimism and trade talks, which is what we're focusing on here. And there are still a few roster holes to be patched -- and some trade candidates who could be dealt to fill them. So, let's play matchmaker.
I'm proposing five deals which would make sense for both sides considering each team's depth chart, contention horizon and salary cap, along with each player's ability and contract. Is this finally the moment when the Giants move on from edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux? Could Kayshon Boutte find a new home after the Patriots' wide receiver acquisitions? And is there a star defender who would fit well with the 49ers?
Let's dive in. Here are five trades that should happen before Week 1.
Jump to a proposed trade involving: Bates | Thibodeaux Coleman | Little | Boutte
49ers get a defensive boost with Bates
49ers receive: S Jessie Bates III, 2028 sixth-round pick Falcons receive: 2027 third-round pick
The Falcons' 2023 signing of Bates was an example of free agency gone right. The Falcons paid sticker price -- four years and $64 million -- to sign Bates, who was very effective in Cincinnati and continued that quality play in Atlanta. That was particularly true in 2023, when Bates delivered six interceptions and three forced fumbles while earning second-team All-Pro honors.
He was good again in 2024, but he wasn't quite on the same level last season. Still, the 29-year-old Bates remains one of the best safeties in the league. (He ranked fifth in this year's survey of coaches and executives conducted by ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.)