The List of Untradeable NFL Players Is Smaller Than You Might Think

Is anyone really available for the right price?

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:08am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist-style painting depicting a fragmented, multi-angled view of a football game, with players and the field broken down into sharp, geometric shapes and planes of color.The complex web of NFL player trades and contract negotiations reveals the delicate balance between team loyalty and the league's constant flux.Stafford Today

The 2026 NFL offseason has seen a flurry of player movement through free agency and trades. While some star players like Lamar Jackson and Ja'Marr Chase could theoretically be traded for the right price, the list of truly untradeable NFL players is smaller than one might expect.

Why it matters

In today's NFL, where teams are in 'win now' mode, top talent is highly coveted and teams are willing to pay a premium to acquire it. However, there are still some elite players that should be considered untouchable by their respective teams.

The details

The article examines several top NFL players who could potentially be traded, including quarterbacks Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson, wide receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson, and pass rusher Myles Garrett. However, the author then identifies a group of truly untradeable players, including Travis Kelce, Cam Hayward, Matthew Stafford, and the young quarterbacks Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, Bo Nix, and Caleb Williams. The article also highlights that Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen should be considered untouchable by the Chiefs and Bills, respectively.

  • The 2026 NFL offseason is off and running as we approach this month's draft.
  • Lamar Jackson showed up to the Ravens's offseason program, something his attendance at has been sporadic in recent years.
  • Ja'Marr Chase signed a monster extension with the Bengals last offseason.

The players

Joe Burrow

Burrow is widely considered to be among the top quarterbacks in football and was rewarded as such when he signed a five-year, $275 million contract extension with the Bengals in 2023.

Lamar Jackson

The Ravens and Lamar Jackson are in a fascinating spot, with the quarterback not being on the same page with former head coach John Harbaugh, leading to his firing.

Ja'Marr Chase

Chase is the best wide receiver in football, heading into his sixth NFL season as a five-time Pro Bowler and two-time first-team All-Pro.

Myles Garrett

Garrett, 30, proved that he's the best defensive player in the sport last season by sacking quarterbacks an NFL-record 23.0 times.

Justin Jefferson

Jefferson, like his former LSU running mate Ja'Marr Chase, is among the top wide receivers in football, but his team, the Vikings, has struggled to find success in recent years.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Everybody's tradeable. Everybody.”

— John Harbaugh, Giants coach

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.