The Deadline Deals NFL Coaches Would Make, Detroit Lions Racing Towards History | 4 Downs

Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry are redefining the MVP chase, New York Giants' at a crossroads, and more

The NFL trade deadline is Tuesday, meaning that general managers at the helm of the most competitive teams across the league have less than two business days to plug the holes and fill the remaining needs on their roster ahead of a crucial stretch run.

Injuries have wreaked havoc on teams such as the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, while teams such as the Washington Commanders and to a slightly lesser extent, the Pittsburgh Steelers, have exceeded expectations and might be one move or one star acquisition away from solidifying their status as potential Super Bowl threats.

Inside this column, we’ll recap another revelatory day across the NFL where the Lions further separated themselves as the best team in the league, Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry continue redefining the running back position and perhaps the MVP race, as well as a bold path the Giants must consider, and much more!

But, before we look back on Sunday, let’s look ahead to what might happen leading up to 4 p.m. Tuesday.

Before the November 5 trade deadline, though, I asked an NFL coach, and a scout I trust most to hypothetically step into a rival general manager's shoes and identify the one trade they would prioritize the most. Here’s what they said.

Pittsburgh Steelers (AFC South Scout): “The thing with the Steelers is gonna be quarterback playing with directly related to offensive line. If they can bolster their offensive line some kind of way that would help them a lot. The defense is going to carry them in most games, but that offensive line can be suspect.”

Russell Wilson’s performance against the New York Giants (I know, I know, not exactly a daunting test), proved that he’s capable of unlocking the vertical passing game in Arthur Smith’s offense, especially if he’s able to keep wide receiver George Pickens motivated and involved by frequently stretching the field.

While the Steelers have been kicking the tires on some of the top wide receivers mentioned in the trade market dating all the way back to this spring, including nearly acquiring Brandon Aiyuk in a deal with the San Francisco 49ers, replacing Justin Fields’ youthful mobility with Wilson behind center does add an emphasis to improving the offensive line.

Pro Football Focus lists the Steelers’ offensive line at No. 26 in the league, with the unit charged with allowing 14 pressures in addition to two sacks against the Giants in Monday night’s win. If Pittsburgh is going to make a meaningful run in the AFC gauntlet against the likes of the Kansas City Chiefs’, Buffalo Bills’, and Baltimore Ravens’ front-sevens, among others, fortifying the offensive line in front of Wilson and to continue to power the running game may be paramount.

Potential Trade Targets to Watch: Jack Conklin (OT), Daniel Brunskill (OG), Danny Pinter (G/C)

Baltimore Ravens (NFL Offensive Coordinator): “I’d spend my waking hours burning the phone lines shopping for any cornerback available.”

The Ravens have already bagged one of the top prizes ahead of this year’s trade deadline, prying veteran wide receiver Diontae Johnson away from the Carolina Panthers, adding to MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson’s plethora of explosive weapons.

Bolstering a burgeoning defense would be the next logical move in the days leading up to the trade deadline.

While Baltimore boasts one of the most balanced and explosive offensive attacks in the NFL, Zachary Orr’s defense has been wildly inconsistent and faced its share of struggles late in close games.

The Ravens are currently allowing a league-high 291.4 passing yards per game, which doesn’t feel sustainable with potential playoff matchups looming against the likes of Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes or even a reinvigorated Pittsburgh Steelers passing attack with Russell Wilson airing it out.

With T.J. Tampa and Christian Matthew both on injured reserve, and Marlon Humphrey banged up, quality depth is also a major concern in Baltimore’s secondary.