DK Metcalf on the Move? Potential Trade Destinations for the Seahawks Star

The Seattle Seahawks are facing a potential receiver room overhaul in 2025. After parting ways with long-time veteran Tyler Lockett, the possibility of trading away their star receiver, DK Metcalf, looms large. Metcalf has reportedly requested a trade from the Seahawks. The team is seemingly prepared to explore trade options as he enters the final year of his three-year, $72 million contract.

Metcalf, a dominant force on the field, has consistently showcased his exceptional talent and athleticism. Last season, he recorded 992 receiving yards and five touchdowns on 66 receptions in 15 games. His departure would undoubtedly leave a void in the Seahawks’ offense. However, his availability presents an enticing opportunity for teams seeking a game-changing receiver.

As one of the premier receivers potentially available league-wide, Metcalf is expected to generate significant interest from various teams looking to bolster their offensive firepower. Here’s an examination of potential landing spots for the dynamic wideout:

Las Vegas Raiders: A Reunion with Pete Carroll?

Metcalf spent his first five seasons under the guidance of Pete Carroll in Seattle. Carroll has since transitioned to the Raiders’ head coaching position during the 2025 offseason and is currently searching for a true No. 1 receiver to lead his offense. The Raiders possess the second-most cap space in the NFL, which positions them favorably to pursue a trade for Metcalf.

The existing relationship between Metcalf and Carroll could be a significant advantage for the Raiders. Their familiarity and mutual respect could facilitate a smooth transition and allow Metcalf to immediately contribute to the Raiders’ offensive scheme. The Raiders’ need for a top-tier receiver combined with their financial flexibility makes them a strong contender in the Metcalf sweepstakes.

New England Patriots: A Weapon for Drake Maye

The New England Patriots are in dire need of offensive playmakers, particularly at the wide receiver position. Last season, no Patriots receiver surpassed DeMario Douglas’s 621 receiving yards. The team’s primary focus is on acquiring a high-caliber wide receiver to support Drake Maye. Maye was drafted as the No. 3 pick in the 2024 NFL draft, and he is expected to develop into the franchise quarterback.

Metcalf, at only 27 years old, aligns well with the Patriots’ timeline for contention. His exceptional physical attributes and proven performance should appeal to the Patriots. The team has a league-leading $127 million in cap space available for the 2025 NFL offseason. This substantial financial capacity enables them to not only acquire Metcalf but also offer him a lucrative contract extension, solidifying his long-term future in New England.

Los Angeles Chargers: A Downfield Threat for Herbert

The Los Angeles Chargers underwent a significant receiver overhaul last offseason. The team moved on from veteran receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. While they discovered a reliable middle-of-the-field option in Ladd McConkey, they still lack a physical, downfield receiver for Justin Herbert to target.

Metcalf’s size (6-4, 235 pounds) and his career average of 14.4 yards per catch make him an ideal complement to McConkey’s skill set. His ability to stretch the field and make contested catches would provide Herbert with a valuable weapon. Metcalf’s presence would open up the Chargers’ offense and create opportunities for other receivers, ultimately making them a more formidable unit.

Pittsburgh Steelers: A Dynamic Duo with Pickens

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ receiving corps is currently lacking depth beyond George Pickens. Pairing Pickens with Metcalf, who are both over 6-3, would present opposing cornerbacks with daunting matchup challenges. Their skills complement each other effectively. Metcalf possesses blazing speed and physicality, while Pickens excels at making contested catches.

The potential combination of Pickens and Metcalf could be particularly effective if Russell Wilson returns to Pittsburgh in 2025. Wilson, known for his downfield passing ability, would greatly benefit from having two such talented receivers at his disposal. The Steelers possess the seventh-most cap space available league-wide this offseason. This allows them the financial flexibility to pursue Metcalf and potentially bring back Wilson, creating a potentially explosive offensive combination.

Washington Commanders: An Addition Alongside Samuel and McLaurin?

The Washington Commanders recently traded for Deebo Samuel. The question is whether they would also pursue Metcalf. Washington has the fifth-most cap space in the NFL after the Samuel trade, so it remains a possibility.

Commanders general manager Adam Peters closely observed Metcalf during his time with the San Francisco 49ers front office. If Peters is a fan of Metcalf’s game, he could envision the Seahawks star as a valuable, large-bodied counterpart to Terry McLaurin. However, the financial implications of paying McLaurin, Metcalf, and Samuel might prove challenging, even with Jayden Daniels on a rookie contract, making this scenario a less likely outcome.

Dallas Cowboys: A Complement to CeeDee Lamb

The Dallas Cowboys are actively seeking a No. 2 receiver to play alongside CeeDee Lamb. Metcalf would undoubtedly fill that role effectively, and he previously worked with Brian Schottenheimer for two of Schottenheimer’s three years in Seattle.

Initially, there were doubts about the Cowboys’ ability to afford Metcalf. However, after Dak Prescott and Lamb restructured their contracts, creating $56.6 million in new salary cap space for Dallas, the Cowboys have the financial capacity to pursue Metcalf if they believe he is a good fit for their offensive system. The existing familiarity between Metcalf and Schottenheimer could expedite his integration into the Cowboys’ offense and allow him to make an immediate impact.

The future of DK Metcalf in Seattle remains uncertain. However, his talent, age, and potential make him a highly sought-after commodity in the NFL. The teams mentioned above represent just a few of the potential destinations for the star receiver. The coming months will undoubtedly be filled with speculation and negotiations as teams vie for the opportunity to acquire Metcalf and add his explosive playmaking ability to their rosters. The Seahawks hold the key to Metcalf’s future. Their decision to trade or retain him will have significant implications for both the team and the receiver.