As the NFL enters its offseason dead period, the rosters of all 32 teams are largely set. However, there are still possibilities for significant movement, with star veterans potentially switching teams before the upcoming season.
This article explores 10 big names who could be on the move, including notable players such as Aaron Donald and Mike Evans.
Potential Trade and Cut Candidates
Patrick Queen, Ravens, LB
The Ravens’ recent acquisition of All-Pro linebacker Roquan Smith and their decision to decline Queen’s fifth-year option suggests that the team may be open to trade offers for Queen. Despite potential concerns within the organization, Queen’s talent, and impressive performance in 2022 make him an appealing target for interested teams.
Gabriel Davis, Bills, WR
While it’s unlikely that the Bills will part ways with Davis during a potential Super Bowl season, there is a case to be made for his departure. With Davis entering the final year of his rookie contract and the Bills facing financial constraints due to several high-cap players, trading Davis for a quality draft pick could provide salary relief and future flexibility.
Additionally, considering the NFL betting odds, teams in need of a talented wide receiver might be willing to offer valuable assets in exchange for Davis’s services.
Joe Mixon, Bengals, RB
After spending six years in Cincinnati, it might be time for Mixon to explore new opportunities. Although the Bengals considered releasing Mixon this offseason to save money, they could instead opt to trade him, creating cap space for potential contract extensions and relying on promising rookie back Chase Brown.
Jerry Jeudy, Broncos, WR
The Broncos have been the subject of trade rumors involving their veteran receivers, and Jeudy stands out as a potential trade asset due to his market value. Denver’s lack of draft capital and the need to rebuild could prompt General Manager George Paton to consider trading Jeudy, securing a valuable pick while also achieving salary savings.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Chiefs, RB
Selected in the first round of the 2020 draft, Edwards-Helaire hasn’t lived up to expectations as a core piece of the Chiefs’ offense. With the Chiefs declining his fifth-year option, there is a possibility that General Manager Brett Veach would entertain trade offers for Edwards-Helaire, even if they involve late-round picks.
Alternatively, the Chiefs could showcase him during the preseason to gauge interest.
Potential Trades with Cap Savings
Chandler Jones, Raiders, DE
Following a disappointing performance in his first season with the Raiders, Jones could be traded to save cap space for the team’s rebuilding efforts. By trading Jones, the Raiders could free up $10.57 million in cap space, provide opportunities for rookie Tyree Wilson, and potentially receive draft assets in return.
Aaron Donald, Rams, DT
While it would be a difficult decision for Rams General Manager Les Snead, trading Aaron Donald could bring significant benefits. As Donald enters the twilight of his career, the Rams could save $35.1 million over the next two seasons by trading him post-June 1. This move would provide much-needed draft capital for Los Angeles and allow them to address other roster needs.
Jamal Adams, Seahawks, S
Adams’s contract and recent performance might make him a challenging trade candidate. However, due to his high base salary over the next three years, the Seahawks could consider releasing him to save $8.4 million in the current year and $34 million throughout the remainder of his deal. This move would enable the team to allocate resources more efficiently.
Mike Evans, Buccaneers, WR
With the Buccaneers embarking on a rebuild, General Manager Jason Licht could look to trade Evans for cap space and draft picks. Despite Evans’ consistent performance over his nine-year career, his age and contract situation makes him an attractive trade target for contending teams. Tampa Bay could save $14.5 million by moving on from Evans.
Kevin Byard, Titans, S
Reports suggest that Byard expressed a desire to be traded without a new contract. While the Titans have yet to make a decision, trading Byard could yield valuable draft capital for the team while reducing future salary commitments. Interested teams should be prepared for the significant base salaries of $13.6 million in 2023 and 2024.
Conclusion
As the NFL enters the quieter period of the offseason, there remains a possibility for significant player movement. The potential trades and cuts discussed in this article highlight star veterans who could find new teams before the upcoming season.
Whether motivated by financial considerations, roster restructuring, or the pursuit of draft capital, these teams have opportunities to reshape their rosters and set themselves up for future success.
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