**NFL Trade Deadline Nears: Potential Moves and Star Players on the Brink**

As the NFL trade deadline approaches, teams are preparing for a flurry of possible trades to optimize their rosters for the playoff push. With notable names like Amari Cooper, Davante Adams, and DeAndre Hopkins already having changed teams, several other stars could soon join the list of those on the move.

Among the most likely candidates for a trade is Diontae Johnson from the Panthers. Despite being in the final year of his contract and showcasing elite possession receiver skills, Johnson's place on a rebuilding team with tight cap space in 2025 has left him available for offers. His impressive performance when paired with competent quarterback play, such as averaging five catches for 65 yards with Andy Dalton, has made him an attractive target. Both the 49ers and Texans, dealing with injuries among their top receivers, are expected to express interest.

In an update, the Ravens have secured a trade for Diontae Johnson, boosting their receiving corps as they eye the postseason. The Panthers, plagued by injuries, could also consider trading quarterback Andy Dalton and running back Chuba Hubbard, though Dalton's current thumb injury complicates this. The status of Jonathan Brooks, who remains out due to an ACL injury, also impacts potential moves.

The Rams' recent victory against the Vikings seemingly removes Cooper Kupp and Matthew Stafford from trade speculations. Head coach Sean McVay reaffirmed Kupp's position on the team, dismissing the idea of moving the star receiver. Despite this, the Rams' standings in the NFC West will likely keep other teams interested, especially if the Rams falter against the Seahawks.

On the Bengals' front, Tee Higgins' quad injury makes trading him tricky. Without a contract extension and with the likelihood of him leaving Cincinnati in the offseason, Higgins becomes a potential trade option for teams in need of a reliable receiver, like the Chargers. Pass-rusher Trey Hendrickson, who requested a trade earlier, also remains a valuable trade piece considering his impressive track record, including 17.5 sacks in 2023 and his current seven sacks this year.

Meanwhile, the Raiders could contemplate a trade for Maxx Crosby, and with Cleveland already making significant moves, Za'Darius Smith stands out as a sought-after defensive end. The Browns, facing substantial financial commitments, might look to cash in on Myles Garrett, though such a move remains speculative.

Emerging trade targets also include Darius Slayton of the Giants, particularly for teams like the Broncos, and former Ram Nathaniel Williams, who might find a resurgence back in Los Angeles or with the Steelers. The Browns, with their eyes set on the future, might offload Za'Darius Smith, a move endorsed by recent rumors and his solid defensive performance this season.

As the deadline looms, the market is also open for players like Chicago's Khalil Herbert, whose minimal usage this season doesn't reflect his earlier career success. Teams in need of bolstering their running game, such as the Cowboys, could find value in Herbert.

In a league where the tide can turn quickly, the next week promises a wave of strategic decisions and potentially franchise-altering trades.