NFL Trade Rumors: Maurice Jones-Drew, Tony Gonzalez, Hakeem Nicks, And Other Notable Players Involved In Possible Deadline Deals?

The 2013 NFL trade deadline is just a week away. While there isn’t traditionally that much player movement during the season, this year could be different.

Last year, the deadline was pushed back two weeks. Now, teams that might have been hesitant to make deals in years’ past could be more willing to part with their top players, since they have a clearer picture of their playoff chances. Several former Pro Bowl players have been involved in trade rumors, especially on the offensive side of the ball.

Hakeem Nicks

Nicks is potentially the best wide receiver available. He’s set to be a free agent at the end of the season, and the new York Giants have already gave Victor Cruz a five-year contract this past offseason. If they are weary of giving big money to another wide out, the Giants could send Cruz to a contender. Last year, New York didn’t trade Osi Umenyiora, who they lost for nothing when he became a free agent in the offseason. The 2012 Giants were making a playoff run, but this year’s team is likely out of contention.

Maurice Jones-Drew

A year ago, the running back was considered one of the best players in football. Now, he could be dealt in the middle of the season. Publicly, the Jacksonville Jaguars have stated that they will keep the 28-year-old, but a source tells Pro Football Talk that Jones-Drew could be had at the right price. The Jaguars may not win a game this season and they might be wise to turn their star rusher into a few pieces that could help them in the future. Jones-Drew’s is averaging only 3.1 yards per carry this year, so his value is not as high as it once was.

Tony Gonzalez

Despite the Falcons’ struggles, the tight end says he won’t ask Atlanta for a trade. At 2-4, the Falcons have underperformed and could be on their way to missing the playoffs. There has been speculation that the Kansas City Chiefs might have some interest in acquiring Gonzalez for a second tour of duty. However, the Falcons most recent win and their outspoken claims that they’ll keep the veteran make it seem likely that the future Hall of Famer will finish with Atlanta.

Emmanuel Sanders

Even though Rob Gronkowski returned to the New England Patriots’ lineup on Sunday, they’re still in need of better options for Tom Brady. Sanders could top the organization’s list of potential targets. They signed the wide out to an offer sheet in the offseason, and CBS Sports’ Jason La Canfora has suggested that New England might give Pittsburgh a call about the 26-year-old. The Steelers remain in last place after beating the Baltimore Ravens in Week Seven.