NFL Trade Possibilities: Ryan Mallett On Way Out?
By Erik Lambert
Aug 15, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Ryan Mallett (15) during the second half of a game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
A number of rumors have surfaced recently on the NFL trade market. What is the latest on their validity ahead of the regular season?
New England Patriots to hold out Mallett and evaluate Jimmy Garoppolo
For awhile everybody was convinced that New England Patriots backup quarterback Ryan Mallett was going to get traded at any moment, what with the team actively searching for a long-term answer for an aging Tom Brady early in the draft. Eventually those rumors quieted, until news came out that Mallett will not play in the preseason finale against the Giants. Word is that the Patriots will not be comfortable dealing him until they’re sure they know what they have in rookie Jimmy Garoppolo, who has played very well thus far. So he will get an extended look in New York. If he does well, Mallett could be on the move.
Likeliest destination if traded: Houston Texans
New York Jets ready to wash their hands of Stephen Hill
Everybody was so confident for the New York Jets when the team took receiver Stephen Hill in the 2nd round of the 2012 draft. His 6’4″ frame and blazing speed were eye-popping to watch and made him worth the risk despite questions regarding his ability to catch passes consistently or run good routes. Unfortunately, it took just two seasons for the Jets to realize they may have made a mistake. In 23 career games (he’s missed nine with injuries), Hill has just 594 yards and four touchdowns. This forced the Jets to act, attempting to trade him during the summer, without success. Expectations are they will try again as NFL rosters continue to trim and needs for teams shift.
Likeliest destination if traded: Cleveland Browns