2014 NFL Trade Rumors: Brock Osweiler and Other Targets
By Erik Lambert
Jan 12, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) and Peyton Manning (18) against the San Diego Chargers during the 2013 AFC divisional playoff football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Lost in the free agency frenzy sweeping the NFL is the lingering possibility of big and unexpected trades that could join the fray. Who could be on the move?
Denver Broncos face tough decision as Osweiler interest rises
The good news is that Peyton Manning will return for the Denver Broncos in 2014. What many fans and front office people for the team might start to struggle with is whether or not they will have a succession plan in place much longer. John Elway selected Brock Osweiler in the draft the same year Manning was signed. The 6’7″ quarterback has learned behind one of the greatest ever, and would seem at prime readiness for an opportunity of his own, which is why interest has sparked from more than one team.
Mike Glennon still in limbo with Tampa Bay Buccaneers
It may have been just a smokescreen intended to garner trade interest but Lovie Smith also could easily have been telling the truth about the intentions of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers regarding the quarterback position. After all, Mike Glennon was drafted by Greg Schiano and the previous regime. Smith has no reason to view the former third round pick as his future franchise guy. Glennon did play well at times last season, enough to make many think he deserves another year of growth. Still, if TampaBay decides to go get a new quarterback in the 2014 NFL draft, then dealing Glennon elsewhere might be their best course of action.
New Orleans Saints are not safe with tag on Jimmy Graham
The franchise tag for Jimmy Graham is in place but the New Orleans Saints have to know they aren’t out of the woods yet. The All-Pro tight end is still a viable target for teams aggressive enough to go after him. Granted, it would require two first round picks and a sizeable amount of salary cap space but Graham is just that good. The matchup nightmares he causes for defenses are nearly impossible to duplicate. It’s not completely ludicrous to think a championship-ready team might crown their roster building with arguably the best tight end in pro football.
Dion Jordan may interest Philadelphia Eagles
The Miami Dolphins insist they aren’t trying to trade several of their key players but as any NFL followers know rumors typically don’t just fall out of thin air. Dion Jordan was among those offered in a deal. The former 2013 first round pick had a somewhat quiet rookie season with only two sacks but at age 23 he still has plenty of upside for any coach who feels he can harness it. One team that might take a strong interest in Jordan is the Philadelphia Eagles. They have a strong need for pass rush help at outside linebacker but beyond that their head coach Chip Kelly was the one who recruited and developed Jordan at Oregon. A reunion between the two makes a ton of sense.
Cleveland Browns may sub Sammy Watkins for Josh Gordon
After the season Josh Gordon had in 2013, it’s so easy to forget the wide receiver is still walking on thin ice with the NFL. One more slipup off the field and he could wind up suspended for a year or longer. That creates a dangerous tight rope walk for the Cleveland Browns. At the same time it wasn’t a mistake when rumors flew that the team was considering dealing Gordon before the trade deadline last year. Now in command of the 4th overall pick in the 2014 draft, they are much better situated to make such a move. They could deal Gordon now, with his value peaking and then replace him with Clemson standout Sammy Watkins. The resulting extra pick (or picks) for Gordon could then be used to fortify the entire offense.