NFL Trade Deadline Rumors: DeAngelo Williams on the Move?

Oct 28, 2012; Chicago, IL, USA; Carolina Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams (34) rushes the ball against the Chicago Bears during the second half at Soldier Field. The Chicago Bears defeat the Carolina Panthers 23-22. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-US PRESSWIRE

The NFL trade deadline was pushed back to Thursday afternoon, and a couple of big name NFL players could be on the move. Namely, Carolina Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams may be heading for a new destination and running the ball for another team.

While a trade is not imminent, the Panthers have $43.5 million committed to Williams over the long term, and for a back that turns 30 next season, that is a hefty price. Especially since he hasn’t been doing much of anything this season. Still, Williams is a talented back who could help a team, and according to reports from the Charlotte Observer, multiple playoff-contending teams have called Carolina about the now backup running back.

Where would be a good fit for the former first round pick out of Memphis? Well, one of the obvious teams who could use his services would be the Green Bay Packers, but they almost never make moves like this, and paying that much money for Williams certainly doesn’t seem to be their style.

A team that could feel desperate at this point would be the Arizona Cardinals, who have lost their top two backs to injury. Still, they seem like an unlikely destination because they still have Beanie Wells and Ryan Williams, not to mention they would have to be giving up picks when they clearly need to revamp their entire offensive line.

One surprise team that could pop up in these discussions is the Denver Broncos. While I think John Fox is happy with his current 1-2 punch of Willis McGahee and Ronnie Hillman, the Broncos expressed interest in Williams when he was a free agent, and could very well still have interest in him if the price is right.