How teams fared in each deal
Key Points:
- The Ravens traded for Ryan Neuzil to bolster their interior offensive line depth, reuniting him with coach Dwayne Ledford, but the move was puzzling given the team's struggling season and Neuzil's expiring contract, earning a C grade for both teams.
- The Chiefs acquired wide receiver Josh Downs to improve their lacking perimeter play, adding a reliable target to support Patrick Mahomes' offense, resulting in a B+ grade; the Colts received draft capital in return after accommodating Downs' trade request, earning a B grade.
- The Broncos added linebacker Daiyan Henley to enhance their defense's second level, complementing existing players with his coverage skills, receiving a B grade, while the Chargers gained draft picks for Henley but failed to make broader roster improvements, earning a B- grade.
- The Vikings made a significant late-season move by acquiring quarterback Kirk Cousins to stabilize their offense and boost playoff hopes, earning an A grade; the Raiders received a modest draft pick return, graded B-.
- The Bills traded for safety Amani Hooker to address defensive vulnerabilities despite a high price of second- and fifth-round picks, earning a B- grade; the Titans capitalized on Hooker's value to gain strong draft compensation, earning a B+ grade.
- The 49ers added receiver Keenan Allen on a budget-friendly deal to provide depth amid injuries, receiving a B- grade, while the Colts moved Allen to gain some long-term value in their rebuilding process, earning a B+ grade.