There are only so many ways left for a team to improve its roster now that the NFL draft and initial waves of free agency are in the books. A club could try its luck with one of the few notable veterans lingering on the open market or come to terms with an undrafted free agent, but the best path would to be execute a trade.
Several potential contributors could be available for the right price. Whether they are playing on expiring deals or simply appear to have fallen out of favor, viable veterans appear to be ripe to be traded before the 2023 season begins this fall.
With that in mind, here are five trades that would benefit both sides if they were to occur this offseason.
Budda Baker to New York Giants
New York Giants receive: S Budda Baker
Arizona Cardinals receive: 2024 second-round pick
It's hard to fault Budda Baker for wanting to part ways with the Arizona Cardinals, who appear to be headed toward a rough season. They not only executed a major regime change but are also projected to be without starting quarterback Kyler Murray (ACL) for an extended stretch in 2023.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the 27-year-old safety requested a trade in February but would be willing to remain in Arizona if the team made him the highest-paid player at his position.
Given the team's lack of contending status and Baker's potentially expiring deal—he's due $13.1 million in base salary for the upcoming campaign, with a team option for 2024 valued at $14.2 million—the Cardinals would be better off finding a taker for the 2017 second-rounder.
Baker is well-regarded in league circles not only for his contributions on the field but also for his leadership in the locker room, although the two-time first-team All-Pro has amassed an impressive 650 tackles, 7.5 sacks and seven interceptions over his six NFL seasons. He'd be an ideal acquisition for an up-and-coming organization with championship aspirations.
The New York Giants fit the bill as they seek to build on their NFC Divisional Round appearance last year. They made some nice moves this offseason—including retaining quarterback Daniel Jones and grabbing an elite corner in Deonte Banks with their first-round pick—but still need to bolster the safety position after losing Julian Love in free agency.
Big Blue only have one starter truly set in incumbent Xavier McKinney, who is back following an injury-plagued 2022 campaign. The club inked Bobby McCain after his release from the rival Washington Commanders but still needs more veteran help in the secondary.
If the G-Men can add a premier talent like Baker for a Day 2 pick—a selection the rebuilding Cardinals should be keen to accept—it would give their defense the edge it needs to make a leap.
Dalvin Cook to New York Jets
New York Jets receive: RB Dalvin Cook
Minnesota Vikings receive: 2024 fourth-round pick
The Minnesota Vikings have a tough decision regarding Dalvin Cook. While he's emerged as an elite running back over the last four years, he has a $14.1 million cap hit this season, and that number rises to $15.6 million in 2024.
There have been rumors that Cook may not be a Viking for much longer despite a four-year run in which he tallied over 6,400 yards from scrimmage and scored 46 touchdowns. ESPN's Adam Schefter recently reported that Cook's "future is in question" and noted that he may not be on Minnesota's roster during the upcoming campaign.
The four-time Pro Bowler is one of the most expensive players at his position, with only Alvin Kamara and Christian McCaffrey earning more annually. While Cook's contributions are undoubtedly strong, it may be tough for Minnesota to find a taker. Teams haven't been willing to spend big on running backs in the modern NFL, although a club desperate to win during a small championship window may be willing to pony up.
The New York Jets are an ideal match after acquiring Aaron Rodgers from the Green Bay Packers. The future Hall of Fame quarterback is entering his age-40 season and may not have much tread left on his tires, but Gang Green will be hoping to win at least one Lombardi Trophy before his retirement.
Cook could team with up-and-comer Breece Hall to form one of the best backfield tandems in the league, giving New York the additional firepower it needs to take the heat off Rodgers and wear down defenses.
While Cook would be a costly addition and they'd need to clear some cap space, the Jets can't afford to squander the opportunity they have to win it all and should be more than willing to incur the expense.