Garrett Wilson would make sense as a wide receiver target for both the Kansas City Chiefs and Las Vegas Raiders. But despite recent speculation about his future with the New York Jets, a trade before the Nov. 10 deadline reportedly is not expected.
The Chiefs and Raiders enter Week 8 of the 2026 NFL season in very different situations. Kansas City is 5-1 and leads the AFC West, with a chance to extend its advantage against the Denver Broncos on Sunday. Las Vegas, meanwhile, has lost four straight after opening the season 3-0.
The Chiefs appear well-positioned to reach the postseason. The Raiders face a more uncertain stretch, and their results over the next two weeks could help determine whether they pursue additions or consider moving players before the deadline. Despite their contrasting records, both teams could benefit from strengthening their receiving groups.
## Why the Chiefs could use Wilson
Kansas City has dealt with injuries among its wide receivers this season. Even when healthy, the group could use another dependable, high-impact option alongside tight end Travis Kelce. Patrick Mahomes would benefit from having another receiver who can contribute consistently, particularly as the team looks to remain a contender.
Kelce’s future is also part of the discussion. If this is his final season, the Chiefs will need to think about establishing a long-term target for Mahomes. At 26, Wilson could potentially fill that role.
Wilson has not made a Pro Bowl, and his numbers may not put him among the league’s most celebrated receivers. Still, he has produced more than 1,000 receiving yards in three of his first four seasons. That record is notable given the instability he has faced at quarterback, including playing with Zach Wilson and Justin Fields.
He has also played with three different starting quarterbacks during his career. A move to Kansas City would put him in a more stable setting and give him the opportunity to catch passes from Mahomes. Wilson’s production and age make him an appealing potential fit, even if a trade is not currently expected.
## Why Wilson could suit the Raiders
Las Vegas also has reason to consider adding a proven receiver. Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins has leaned heavily on the team’s tight ends, in part because the wide receiver group lacks depth and impact. Wilson could give the offense a stronger option on the outside.
His age could be especially relevant to the Raiders’ longer-term plans. Wilson is 26 and remains under team control for four more seasons, although his contract would not come at a low cost. That control could make him more than a short-term rental if Las Vegas decides to build around a young quarterback.
The Raiders could eventually hand the starting role to rookie Fernando Mendoza. Adding a productive receiver such as Wilson could give Mendoza a reliable target and make the transition to being the team’s quarterback easier. That possibility may be more relevant if Las Vegas shifts its focus toward developing the roster rather than making a push for the postseason this year.
## The Jets’ reported position
Wilson’s comments this week that he values winning over staying with one team helped fuel speculation about a possible move. The Chiefs and Raiders are natural teams to discuss because both could use more help at wide receiver.
However, a report on Saturday indicated that the Jets have no intention of trading Wilson before the deadline, regardless of interest from other clubs. For now, that makes a midseason deal appear unlikely.
If New York’s position changes, Wilson’s age, production, and remaining team control could make him an attractive target for teams seeking help beyond this season. Kansas City could view him as a potential long-term partner for Mahomes, while Las Vegas could see him as a valuable receiver for its eventual plans at quarterback. Until then, both clubs may need to explore other ways to address their receiving needs.
