Offseason Player Movement: A Preview of Potential Trades
Introduction
The NFL’s offseason is a time of intense speculation and player movement, and this year is no different. With the 2023 league year approaching, several high-profile players have been linked to potential trades, setting the stage for a blockbuster offseason. Here are some of the most notable players who could be on the move:
Quarterbacks
Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams
Despite leading the Rams to a Super Bowl victory in 2022, Stafford’s future in Los Angeles is uncertain. With a limited amount of guaranteed money remaining on his contract and the team facing salary cap constraints, Stafford could be a prime candidate to be traded.
Derek Carr, Las Vegas Raiders
Carr has been a steady presence for the Raiders, but the team’s struggles in recent years have led to speculation about his future. Carr has a no-trade clause, but could explore a deal if the Raiders are willing to part ways with him.
Kirk Cousins, Minnesota Vikings
Like Carr, Cousins has a no-trade clause, which makes a deal less likely. However, the Vikings have indicated an interest in upgrading at quarterback, and Cousins’ hefty salary could make him expendable.
Wide Receivers
Cooper Kupp, Los Angeles Rams
Kupp has already expressed his displeasure with the Rams’ decision to trade him, but a deal could be difficult to facilitate due to his injury history and cap hit. Despite these challenges, Kupp’s talent could still make him an attractive target for contending teams.
DK Metcalf, Seattle Seahawks
Metcalf has only one year remaining on his contract, and the Seahawks may be hesitant to pay him a long-term extension. The receiver has been linked to several teams, including the Carolina Panthers and New York Jets.
Deebo Samuel, San Francisco 49ers
Samuel has requested a trade from the 49ers, and the team has granted him permission to seek a new deal. Samuel’s versatility and playmaking ability could make him a valuable asset to any team.
Tight Ends
Kyle Pitts, Atlanta Falcons
Pitts has failed to live up to expectations after being selected 4th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft. The Falcons could trade him to acquire draft capital or reshape their offense.
Defensive Players
Myles Garrett, Cleveland Browns
Garrett has publicly requested a trade from the Browns, citing a lack of competitiveness and a desire to win a Super Bowl. Cleveland has yet to respond to his request, but a deal could be in the works.
Micah Parsons, Dallas Cowboys
Parsons is one of the most dynamic defenders in the NFL, but rumors have emerged that the Cowboys could trade him for a "king’s ransom." While a deal seems unlikely, it’s worth monitoring the situation.
Denzel Ward, Cleveland Browns
Garrett’s trade request could have a domino effect on other Browns defenders. Ward has expressed that Garrett’s future with the team will impact his own decision.
Other Notable Players
Evan Engram, Jacksonville Jaguars
Engram’s injury history and the emergence of Brenton Strange could make him a trade candidate. His cap hit could be reduced if he is traded.
Tee Higgins, Cincinnati Bengals
Higgins is a talented receiver, but the Bengals may struggle to afford him a long-term contract. If he is not signed to a new deal, he could be traded before the March 4 deadline.
Marvin Jones Jr., Jacksonville Jaguars
Jones has been a consistent performer for the Jaguars, but his contract and the team’s desire to get younger could make him available for a trade.
Conclusion
The 2023 NFL offseason promises to be filled with rumors, speculation, and potential blockbuster trades. The players listed above are just a few of the names to watch as teams jockey for position and reshape their rosters. As the league year approaches, the NFL landscape is poised for a major shakeup.
