What happened: An evaluation of in-season NFL trades completed since 2020 ranked the San Francisco 49ers' acquisition of running back Christian McCaffrey as the decade's top move. San Francisco surrendered second-, third-, fourth-, and fifth-round draft selections to the Carolina Panthers during the 2022 campaign to secure the tailback. Carolina converted those assets to facilitate drafting quarterback Bryce Young first overall in 2023 and edge rusher D.J. Johnson in the third round.

Why it matters: In-season acquisitions have served as the decisive catalyst for multiple recent championship runs, including title-winning campaigns by the Seattle Seahawks and Los Angeles Rams following veteran defensive additions. The upcoming Nov. 10 trade deadline places renewed focus on roster construction as contenders weigh whether steep future draft capital justifies immediate playoff contention.

What to watch: NFL teams have until the Nov. 10 trade deadline at 4 p.m. ET to finalize roster moves ahead of the season's second half.