The NFL trade deadline always brings surprises, but this year’s blockbuster move sent shockwaves through the league: Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Jakobi Meyers has been traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars just days after facing them on the field. The deal, finalized hours before the deadline, sees Meyers heading east in exchange for Jacksonville’s fourth- and sixth-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Meyers’ Sudden Exit: From Trade Request to New Jersey
Meyers, a reliable veteran with 33 catches for 352 yards in seven games this season, had reportedly requested a trade before the 2025 campaign began. The Raiders initially resisted, but mounting pressure and interest from teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers finally led to his departure. Meyers himself was candid about his desire for a fresh start, telling reporters last week,
“I just want to be in a good place.”Why Jacksonville Made the Move
The Jaguars’ receiving corps has been battered by injuries. Rookie Travis Hunter was placed on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least four games, while promising wideout Brian Thomas Jr. is nursing an ankle injury with his status uncertain for next week. Jacksonville, sitting at 5-3 and fighting for playoff position, needed immediate help to keep pace in the AFC South.
Meyers is expected to slot in as a strong No. 2 option alongside Thomas Jr., giving quarterback Trevor Lawrence a much-needed boost. Lawrence ranks just 30th in completion percentage and passer rating when targeting wide receivers this season—a stat the Jaguars hope Meyers can help improve.
Trade Grades: Who Won?
Analysts are split, but most agree the deal is a win-win:
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Jaguars: Grade B-. They get a proven, versatile receiver to stabilize their offense, but Meyers’ looming free agency means they risk losing him after just a few months.
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Raiders: Grade B. Las Vegas gains valuable draft capital to rebuild, especially with Meyers set to hit free agency and unlikely to re-sign.
What’s Next for Meyers and the Jaguars?
Meyers’ arrival gives Jacksonville flexibility and depth as they chase a playoff berth. If Hunter returns, the team could experiment with new formations and roles, possibly shifting Hunter to cornerback to maximize their talent. For Meyers, it’s a chance to prove his worth in a new system and potentially earn a long-term contract.
Expert Takeaways
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Meyers’ trade request was granted, making him one of the deadline’s biggest winners.
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Jacksonville’s aggressive move signals their intent to contend now, not just build for the future.
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Las Vegas gets draft picks to fuel their rebuild, while Meyers gets the fresh start he wanted.
Future Implications
If Meyers clicks with Lawrence, the Jaguars could become one of the AFC’s most dangerous offenses down the stretch. For the Raiders, the focus shifts to the draft and developing young talent. Meyers’ performance in Jacksonville—and whether he re-signs—will be a storyline to watch as the season unfolds.
Sources
1. Raiders trade WR Jakobi Meyers to Jaguars for two draft ...
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7. Jakobi Meyers trade grades: Jaguars bolster WR room as ...
8. CBS Sports - News, Live Scores, Schedules, Fantasy Games ...
9. NFL Trade Deadline heute: Jaguars holen Jakobi Meyers
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11. Jaguars Make Moves: Trade for WR Jakobi Meyers
12. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
13. Raiders acquire draft picks in exchange for WR Jakobi ...
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