We are just two weeks into the season, and there have already been plenty of injuries, especially at key positions like on the defensive line. Several teams could be looking for defensive line help early on. Strong defensive fronts are vital for any contender, and a handful of teams are already feeling the impact. Big names such as Khalil Mack, Calijah Kancey, Dietrich Wise, and Alex Highsmith have all been hit with injuries.
As a result, some franchises may be forced to explore free agency or the trade market sooner than expected. Three teams stand out: the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Dallas Cowboys, and the Chicago Bears.
Teams That Could Be Looking for Defensive Line Help
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneers suffered a major loss when young star Calijah Kancey tore his pec in the Monday Night Football game against the Houston Texans. Kancey is a cornerstone of Tampa’s defensive line, and his absence will be difficult to replace. The free-agent pool is thin, with options like Carl Lawson and Shaquil Barrett. Barrett is 32, and his production has dipped, but he knows the system well after spending most of his career in Tampa. He could be a low-cost signing if the team wants an immediate answer. Another option is to wait until the trade deadline.
Tampa Bay is a legit contender and could look to be aggressive to replace Kancey. A name to watch is Jaelan Phillips of the Miami Dolphins. Phillips has dealt with injuries but remains a highly effective edge rusher when healthy. At 26 and on the final year of his contract, he could become available if Miami continues to struggle. If the Dolphins fall to 0-3 on Thursday and continue to go down the losing path, they may be inclined to sell pieces for future draft capital, making Phillips a realistic target.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys have struggled to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks since trading Micah Parsons. Their defense just let Russell Wilson torch them last week for 450 yards and three touchdowns. Dallas did sign Jadeveon Clowney, but that move will not thread the needle much. Clowney provides experience but is no longer the game-changing force he once was. The Cowboys, like the Buccaneers, could be a team that looks at Jaelan Phillips. The 26-year-old is young and, when healthy, very effective. If Miami makes him available, Dallas would make sense as a potential landing spot given their pass rush struggles.
Chicago Bears: A Team That Can Really Use Defensive Line Help Now
The Bears’ pass rush has not been effective right now, despite a new scheme and new coaching staff. Aggressive general manager Ryan Poles could look at the trade market and add some help, as the Bears are really struggling. They are giving up 39.5 points per game to start the season, which ranks last in the NFL. If this trend continues, Chicago could be forced to make a move before their season gets out of hand.
Trade Deadline Wild Card: Kayvon Thibodeaux
Beyond the Buccaneers, Cowboys, and Bears, any team seeking defensive help could have interest at the deadline. A very intriguing name to watch is Kayvon Thibodeaux of the New York Giants. Drafted fifth overall in 2022, Thibodeaux has not yet reached his full potential. He is only 24, but New York has already built a star-studded defensive front. The Giants drafted Abdul Carter with the third overall pick in 2025 and also have Brian Burns, one of the league’s best pass rushers. If the team continues to slide, they may shop Thibodeaux for draft picks. His age and pedigree would make him attractive to several contenders. For a team desperate for pass-rush help, he could be one of the top trade targets.
Contending Teams Will Be Looking For Defensive Line Help
Defensive line depth is one of the most valuable assets in football. The Buccaneers, Cowboys, and Bears are already facing challenges after early-season struggles and injuries. With limited free agents available, trades could become the more realistic path. Big names such as Jalen Phillips and Kayvon Thibodeaux may hit the market. As the season unfolds, expect contenders to monitor the defensive line market closely in search of reinforcements or depth.
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