Not the most trade-deadline activity we've seen in recent years, but enough to shake things up. Let's run down what it all means fantasy-wise.
First, Khalil Herbert to Cincy. This is a rare win-win for two backup RBs. With Zack Moss likely out for the year, Herbert has a shot at some meaningful spot starts if Chase Brown is ever sidelined. And actually, after Brown's 32-touch outburst on Sunday, it'll be interesting to see if Herbert's active tomorrow night. Rare for a trade acquisition to suit up two days after joining his new team. But it's was clear on Sunday that the Bengals -- and these are my words, not theirs obviously -- didn't trust Trayveon Williams or Kendall Milton.
Because that game was over with five minutes left and the Bengals up 21 with the ball. Yet they still handed it to Brown four more times. That speaks volumes, and it also reinforces why they rushed out to snag Herbert, who's now rosterable in many leagues.
The move also solidifies Roschon Johnson's value in Chicago, though it's all relative. Herbert is the more valuable of the two -- a much more established NFL workhorse who's still only 26 years old. Johnson still has to prove he belongs, and he's regressed in Year 2.
In less surprising news, Mike Williams is headed to Pittsburgh. Williams was as good as gone from New York when Aaron Rodgers publicly called him out. The fading Jets were lucky to get a fifth-round pick for an injury-prone 30-year-old that they clearly no longer wanted. But it's a fascinating landing spot, because Williams should have every opportunity to win the #2 WR job. He's worth a flier in most leagues if it doesn't overload your bench with wideouts.
And Jonathan Mingo to the Cowboys? Thought it was a typo when I read it. The deal suggests Dallas will move on from Brandin Cooks after this season, giving Mingo an outside shot at becoming the #3 WR in 2025. But with Dak Prescott headed for injured reserve, the timing is odd. It's like getting a cheap Nintendo Switch video game for your birthday the day after your Nintendo Switch broke.
Were there any surprising non-moves -- any guys staying put who you thought would head elsewhere?
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