NFL GMs say they expect trades in 2026 draft first round

In a year where the NFL draft lacks the star power of previous drafts, general managers are anticipating a flurry of trades in the first round to shake things up and add excitement to the event. With the absence of big-name quarterbacks and compelling storylines, teams are looking to make moves to improve their rosters.

⚡ Key Facts

• The Core: The 2026 NFL draft is lacking in top-tier quarterbacks and standout players.
• The Breakdown: General managers are expecting multiple trades in the first round to inject excitement into the event.
• The Impact: The potential trades could lead to teams improving their rosters and shaking up the draft order.

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  🔍 The Deep Dive
  

  Why it’s happening: The lack of star power in this year’s draft has GMs looking to make trades to secure the players they need. Teams with multiple first-round picks are in a prime position to leverage their assets and make moves to improve their rosters.

  From one perspective: Advocates for change suggest that the potential trades could lead to a more competitive and unpredictable draft, keeping fans engaged throughout the event.

  On the other hand: Conversely, critics maintain that the focus on trades could detract from the talent on the board and overshadow the players who are selected based on their skills and abilities.

  🏁 The Bottom Line
  

  As the 2026 NFL draft approaches, all eyes will be on the GMs and teams as they navigate the potential trades and maneuver to secure the players they believe will make an impact on their rosters. Stay tuned for a draft night full of excitement and surprises. NFL general managers are predicting that there will be trades in the first round of the 2026 draft. With a lack of franchise quarterbacks and polarizing players, GMs believe that teams will be more willing to make moves to secure the players they want.

  One GM stated, "I think you’re going to see a lot of movement in the first round. Teams are going to be aggressive in trying to get the players they believe can make a difference for their team."

  The 2026 draft class is seen as lacking in top-tier talent at the quarterback position, which could lead to teams looking to trade up to secure one of the few promising prospects available. Additionally, there are several polarizing players in this year’s draft, with some teams valuing them highly while others are more hesitant.

  Overall, the consensus among GMs is that the 2026 draft has the potential to be more exciting and unpredictable than in years past, with trades playing a significant role in shaping the first round. Fans can expect to see plenty of action on draft day as teams jockey for position to land the players they covet.