2014 NFL Draft: Player-For-Pick Trade Possibilities
By Erik Lambert
November 17, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Brandon Flowers (24) defends during the third quarter against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Chiefs 27-17. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Aside from pick exchanging, which is the norm for drafts, players can also covet some possible currency. Who could do just that in the 2014 NFL draft?
Andre Johnson – Houston Texans
It might sound impossible but Andre Johnson certainly did his best to make an exception for the Houston Texans. In the midst of their freefall during the 2013 season, Johnson both talked and acted less like a leader and more like a diva than most thought was possible. First he publicly chided his team for their struggles and then during another loss, he left the field before the game was over. He has every bit of that air of a player who’s not willing to reverse direction back into rebuilding mode, especially at age 32. So perhaps the time is right for Houston to deal the All-Pro. There would be a number of suitors for sure and the Texans could probably get pretty good compensation despite his age. The key of course will be have a plan in place to replace him.
Jason Witten – Dallas Cowboys
There hasn’t been a more consistently productive tight end in pro football over the past eight to ten years than Jason Witten for the Dallas Cowboys. He remains a top target for Tony Romo, but extenuating circumstances have begun to make his presence in Dallas less and less attractive. First, he is pushing north of 30 years old and has taken a lot of hit. Second, the Cowboys seem to have a high quality youngster in the system now with Gavin Escobar. Lastly, is simple economics. Witten is very expensive and the Cowboys are hurting for salary cap space. By dealing him elsewhere they not only get relief, but also something back in return. Obviously there’s no guarantee Escobar can reach a similar level, but Dallas has been good about keeping the offense loaded with weapons.
Kirk Cousins – Washington Redskins
By far the most believable trade option to this point heading into the 2014 NFL draft. With the quarterback class somewhat unpredictable, several teams may wish to seek out trade options for players with proven experience. Kirk Cousins falls into that category with the Washington Redskins. While he doesn’t have the elite arm, the backup has shown a knack for standing tall in the pocket and throwing the ball around with precision and decisive timing. He can also move around well, keeping plays alive with his legs. It’s hard to believe he’s worth a first rounder, but a second or third is not out of the question as he has winning experience under a proven coach.
Brandon Flowers – Kansas City Chiefs
Things really began to go wrong for Brandon Flowers when the Kansas City Chiefs shifted to a 3-4 defense. Corners in that scheme are asked to play a lot of press-man coverage and typically need good size to handle it. Flowers was not drafted for that system and at 5’9″ has understandably struggled. He is however quite adept in a zone defense and might serve better moving to another team who utilizes one. There is obviously talent there because he made a Pro Bowl so it’s merely a question of finding the right fit. In return Kansas City can get some draft currency to pocket while Flower gets a chance to regain his place as a full-time starter.