5 NFL Teams That Boosted Their Super Bowl Odds Most at the Trade Deadline

The NFL trade deadline saw significant moves from teams eyeing the Super Bowl, with 18 total trades involving 19 players since Week 1. These five teams made major moves to improve their championship prospects.

Also read - "Will Chiefs’ Perfect Season Last? Injury Update on Key Players Raises Questions"


1. Detroit Lions: All-In for Their First Super BowlAcquired: Za'Darius Smith

The Detroit Lions, off to their best eight-game start since 1956, made a bold play for veteran defensive end Za'Darius Smith, aiming to offset the season-ending injury of star Aidan Hutchinson. Known for his NFC North experience with the Packers and Vikings, Smith has been effective this season with 26 pressures and five sacks—numbers that outpace Detroit’s next best edge rusher, Josh Paschal, by a wide margin.

For Detroit, this trade signals a win-now mentality. With the top-scoring offense in the league and the addition of Smith to fortify their defense, they’re positioned for a historic playoff run in hopes of finally capturing their first Super Bowl.

2. Pittsburgh Steelers: Bolstering Offense and Defense Acquired: Mike Williams, Preston Smith

The Steelers addressed offensive and defensive gaps by acquiring wide receiver Mike Williams and linebacker Preston Smith. After George Pickens, Pittsburgh lacked a dependable wideout, making Williams—a dynamic, deep-ball threat—the perfect complement. Known for his big-play ability, Williams has struggled with injuries, but a fresh start in Pittsburgh could reinvigorate his career.

Preston Smith adds depth to an already top-tier defense. With T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith leading the Steelers’ linebacker corps, Smith's arrival enhances their pass rush options. Currently sitting at 6-2, head coach Mike Tomlin seems on track for his 18th consecutive winning season.

3. Kansas City Chiefs: Seeking a Three-Peat with Hopkins and Uche Acquired: DeAndre Hopkins, Josh Uche

The Chiefs are on a quest for their third consecutive Super Bowl win—a feat never accomplished in NFL history. Injuries had left Kansas City thin at wide receiver, prompting the acquisition of DeAndre Hopkins. In his first game at Arrowhead, Hopkins quickly showed his impact, with eight catches, 86 yards, and two touchdowns, filling a much-needed role as the Chiefs’ go-to receiver.

To further enhance their defense, the Chiefs picked up pass rusher Josh Uche. Known for his 11.5 sacks in 2022, Uche could provide essential support outside of Chris Jones, adding situational pass-rushing power that solidifies Kansas City’s already top-five ranked defense.

4. Washington Commanders: Strengthening Defense with Lattimore Acquired: Marshon Lattimore

The Washington Commanders made a key defensive move, trading for cornerback Marshon Lattimore. Known for his elite coverage skills, Lattimore’s presence fills Washington’s long-standing void at the position. With a track record of allowing completion rates below 65% over seven seasons, he brings consistency and skill to their secondary.

Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels emphasized his commitment to reshaping Washington’s culture, saying he wanted to “shift the culture.” The Commanders are hopeful that Lattimore’s experience will propel them toward their first playoff berth since 2020.

5. Baltimore Ravens: Reinforcing an Already Explosive Offense Acquired: Diontae Johnson, Tre'Davious White

With the NFL’s top-ranked offense, the Ravens enhanced their arsenal by adding wide receiver Diontae Johnson. Known for his route-running precision, Johnson complements Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman, giving quarterback Lamar Jackson an expanded playbook as he pursues another MVP-caliber season.

On the defensive side, Baltimore acquired veteran cornerback Tre'Davious White. Although past his prime Pro Bowl years, White’s playoff experience is valuable for a Ravens secondary dealing with injuries. The Ravens are hopeful that his presence will solidify their defensive backfield in high-stakes situations.

Also read - "Will Chiefs’ Perfect Season Last? Injury Update on Key Players Raises Questions"