NFL clubs rebuff trade speculation for Coleman, Kmet, Richardson and Thibodeaux
Despite four analysts proposing realistic trade scenarios for Buffalo Bills wide receiver Keon Coleman, Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet, Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson and New York Giants edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux, all four franchises have indicated they are unlikely to move their assets.
Four ESPN NFL analysts recently proposed simulated trade scenarios for Buffalo Bills wide receiver Keon Coleman, Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet, Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson and New York Giants edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux. While speculation exists regarding all four players, their respective teams have largely rebuffed trade interest. The Bills intend to keep Coleman despite owner comments; the Bears view Kmet as a locked-in leader; the Colts have not yet moved Richardson despite his request; and the Giants are seeking a return exceeding a third-round pick for Thibodeaux. Analysts identified potential suitors such as the Baltimore Ravens, Kansas City Chiefs, Minnesota Vikings and New Orleans Saints, but concluded that none of the simulated deals currently meet the selling teams' requirements.
General manager Brandon Beane has firmly dismissed trade interest in Coleman, clarifying that he made the draft selection rather than the previous coaching staff. Beane stated the team has rebuffed all trade interest and intends to keep Coleman, noting that any trade would only create approximately $1.7 million in cap space. Coleman, who recorded 38 catches for 404 yards in 2025, remains a focal point of the Bills' offensive plans despite earlier comments from owner Terry Pegula regarding the former coaching staff's influence on his 2024 draft selection.
The Chicago Bears have restructured Cole Kmet’s contract to reduce his 2026 cap hit to $7.775 million, escalating it to $15.425 million in 2027. General manager Ryan Poles described Kmet as "locked in" regarding his role and leadership, emphasising that his value extends beyond his position on the depth chart. Although analysts suggested potential moves to teams like the Miami Dolphins or Kansas City Chiefs, the Bears remain committed to Kmet, viewing him as a critical component of their scheme.
Anthony Richardson requested a trade in February and attended voluntary offseason workouts, but no deal has materialised. The Colts face challenges finding a buyer due to most quarterback roles being filled league-wide, with Richardson’s 2026 salary dropping significantly only if dealt after his August roster bonus is paid. While analysts identified the Green Bay Packers, Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings as potential suitors, the Colts have yet to move Richardson despite his desire for a change of scenery.
The Giants view Thibodeaux as their third edge rusher behind Brian Burns and Abdul Carter. A source indicated Thibodeaux has impressed the new staff and is valued higher than previous market offers, with the Giants seeking better than a third-round pick. Analysts proposed deals involving the New Orleans Saints, New England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs, but concluded that none of the simulated offers met the Giants' strategic requirements or valuation for their draft capital.
