4 WR trade options for Cardinals after Michael Wilson’s season-ending injury

The Arizona Cardinals have a major problem to address after losing Michael Wilson for the remainder of the season. The wide receiver suffered a neck injury against the Seattle Seahawks, leaving a significant gap in an offense that had already traded Marvin Harrison Jr. to the Houston Texans.With the NFL trade deadline set for Tuesady, Arizona could explore the market for another receiver. The Cardinals are not expected to make a major investment with their 2026 season going nowhere, but adding a younger player with upside could help their offense and provide another weapon for the future.Here are four wide receivers the Cardinals could consider pursuing.MORE: Ravens finalizing trade with Cardinals for Jacoby BrissettJosh Downs, Indianapolis ColtsIndianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs (2) makes a catch against the Houston Texans in the first half at Lucas Oil Stadium. Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images.Josh Downs is one of the most realistic names to monitor. The 25-year-old reportedly requested a trade on October 28, and Indianapolis could consider moving him with his contract approaching its final year.He would give Arizona a reliable underneath target who can create separation and contribute after the catch. A trade would also give the Cardinals an opportunity to negotiate a longer-term deal.Quentin Johnston, Los Angeles ChargersLos Angeles Chargers wide receiver Quentin Johnston (1) catches the ball in the second quarter against the Buffalo Bills at New Highmark Stadium. Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn ImagesQuentin Johnston offers the size and speed Arizona could use to improve its downfield passing attack. The 6-foot-3 receiver has shown the ability to make explosive plays, although his production has been inconsistent.The Chargers exercised his fifth-year option, keeping him under contract through 2027. That control could make him an appealing option beyond the current season.Brian Thomas Jr., Jacksonville JaguarsJacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. (7) reacts to his reception during the first quarter of an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium. Credit: USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect (Reuters)Brian Thomas Jr. is another former first-round pick whose name has surfaced in trade discussions. He recorded 1,282 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns as a rookie in 2024, but his production has declined since then.At 24, he still has considerable upside. Arizona could view a change of scenery as an opportunity to help him rediscover his rookie form.MORE: Jaguars make deal with Saints ahead of NFL trade deadlineJerry Jeudy, Cleveland BrownsCleveland Browns wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) makes a catch. Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)Jerry Jeudy is another established receiver mentioned among potential trade candidates. The 27-year-old would bring experience and route-running ability to a young Arizona receiving group. He is older than the other three options, but could provide an immediate target for the Cardinals while helping take pressure off their remaining offensive weapons.Arizona must decide whether adding a receiver is worth spending draft capital with the team sitting outside the playoff picture. Downs, Johnston, Thomas and Jeudy have all been identified in recent trade-market coverage, giving the Cardinals several names to investigate before the deadline.— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —