The Seattle Seahawks released Tyler Lockett, then minutes later reports of DK Metcalf’s trade request became public. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Seahawks intend to honor Metcalf’s request to be traded and his preference is to land with a playoff contender.
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Metcalf, 27, is a two-time Pro Bowl receiver headed into the final year of his contract. He’s expecting to sign an expensive contract extension this offseason. With three 1,000-yard seasons across six years and never finishing with below 900 yards, Metcalf is expected to have a strong market. Yet, which contenders should pursue a trade for Metcalf?
Las Vegas Raiders
Yes, Metcalf reportedly wants to join a contender, but his familiarity with Pete Carroll could mean he views the Raiders as an ideal landing spot too. Yet, Metcalf may only want to land in Vegas if they can land a proven player like Sam Darnold first.
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Los Angeles Chargers
Another possibility for a Metcalf trade could be the Chargers. Jim Harbaugh loves a receiver who isn’t afraid to do the dirty work and throw some tough blocks, and Metcalf fits the bill. Plus, adding a large-framed field-stretcher should be on every team’s offseason wish-list, especially one looking to surround their franchise quarterback with more weapons.
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Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys are looking for more playmakers to pair with CeeDee Lamb this offseason, and Metcalf would be a good fit. Yet, since he’s projected to sign a contract worth an annual average value of $26 million per season, trading for Metcalf may be too rich for the Cowboys’ blood.
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Kansas City Chiefs
Even with DeAndre Hopkins, the Chiefs didn’t have enough playmakers who could take the game over in their Super Bowl loss. Now Hopkins is set for free agency, which means the Chiefs will need a replacement and Metcalf is the best upgrade they’ll find.
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Denver Broncos
Bo Nix had a great rookie season and that was without a large cache of weapons. While Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims are a good start, this offense could really reach new heights with another big 6-foot-4 speedy playmaker like Metcalf.
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Houston Texans
After making the playoffs in each of CJ Stroud’s first two seasons with the team, the Texans are firm contenders who aren’t going anywhere any time soon. Yet, Stefon Diggs is set for free agency and Tank Dell is working to recover from a season-ending surgery. Metcalf would give the Texans an excellent receiver trio.
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Baltimore Ravens
Lamar Jackson never has enough weapons. While the Ravens will always win on the ground with the two-time NFL MVP, Metcalf gives them another big red zone target to pair with Mark Andrews in what’s already one of the league’s most dangerous offenses.
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Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers don’t even know who their starting quarterback will be in 2025, but with Mike Tomlin, they’ve never had a losing season in the past 18 years. George Pickens gives them a primary playmaker, but his future in Pittsburgh remains uncertain. Whether it’s pairing him with Pickens or eventually replacing him, Metcalf would upgrade the Steelers’ offense.
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Buffalo Bills
The reigning MVP is enough to want any top playmaker to play for the Bills. Josh Allen can’t do it all but getting someone like Metcalf who can take the top off the defense could help the Bills finally achieve their goal of winning a Super Bowl if the right conditions present themselves.
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Green Bay Packers
The Packers love their franchise quarterback, but they haven’t been able to find a certified No. 1 receiver. Christian Watson will be recovering from ACL surgery when the season kicks off, which means Jordan Love will have to rely on other playmakers. That’s where Metcalf could arrive as the top target in town.
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