2014 NFL Draft: Trade Scenarios To Consider
By Erik Lambert
Dec 22, 2013; St. Louis, MO, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Mike Glennon (8) looks to pass the ball during the first half against the St. Louis Rams at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Scott Kane-USA TODAY Sports
Trades are what will make the 2014 NFL draft one to remember. Here are some possible scenarios to sift through as the event draws closer.
Buffalo Bills trade for #2 pick to get Greg Robinson or Jadeveon Clowney
The rumor were thought to be smoke at first but it’s clear the Buffalo Bills are dead serious about trying to move up from the 9th pick into the top 5. Given their needs and the players that might be available they would likely target either defensive Jadeveon Clowney from South Carolina or Auburn tackle Greg Robinson. Clowney would have a chance to pair with Mario Williams and Robinson could improve an offensive line that gave up 48 sacks in 2013. In order to be assured one of those players, it’s likely the Bills would have to get the #2 pick from St. Louis.
Detroit Lions trade for #3 pick to get Sammy Watkins
Most experts agree wide receiver Sammy Watkins is the best in the 2014 NFL draft and also agree he won’t fall past the 4th overall pick where the Cleveland Browns could pair him with Josh Gordon. So that puts the Jacksonville Jaguars and their #3 pick in good position. Among the teams most actively rumored showing interest in getting Watkins is the Detroit Lions who want to put him alongside their own star Calvin Johnson. Jacksonville has expressed interest in moving down. The question is can Detroit convince them to fall all the way to #10 and risk missing out on a top quarterback or elite talent like a Khalil Mack?
New York Jets trade with Atlanta Falcons for Mike Evans
Two primary areas need work for the New York Jets roster. The first is cornerback which remains unsettled following the departures of Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie. However, there is a case to be made that wide receiver or tight end need just as much help. Most draft experts can see the Jets moving up for somebody like tight end Eric Ebron of North Carolina or corner Darqueze Dennard of MichiganState. On the other hand, they might have an actual window open to go get Texas A&M receiver Mike Evans. That Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who hold the 7th overall pick, are favorites to take him. So the Atlanta Falcons and their 6th pick would be the ones to talk to. New York has a strong cache of picks at their disposal. Provided the Falcons are keen on moving down, this is a deal that can happen.
Baltimore Ravens trade with Tennessee Titans for Eric Ebron
Finding Joe Flacco weapons is something the Baltimore Ravens vowed to do in the 2014 NFL draft and word has it they have eyes for tight end Eric Ebron. His potential as a pass catcher is off the charts and would make a great option in teaming with Dennis Pitta. Based on projections Ebron is expected to go somewhere between the 9th and 15th selections with the New York Giants at #12 being the popular landing spot. So if the Ravens are keen on getting their guy, the Tennessee Titans at #11 are the first phone call to make. The Titans don’t have many draft picks so a deal is definitely worth hearing for them.
San Francisco 49ers trade with Chicago Bears for Justin Gilbert
There is little question the San Francisco 49ers are driven by the success of their defense and the secondary is looking rather thin heading into the draft, particularly at corner. With five picks in the first three rounds alone they are more than capable of making a jump up the board for a top talent such as Justin Gilbert of OklahomaState, a freak athlete who thrives in press coverage and also offers return ability. In order to get him a team like the Chicago Bears with the 14th pick are a spot to consider. They hold a good position because the Pittsburgh Steelers at #15 and Ravens at #17 are both threats to take corners early.
Minnesota Vikings trade 40th pick to Bucs for Mike Glennon
A roaring argument continues about whether the Minnesota Vikings will take a quarterback with the 8th overall pick. If they don’t then they almost certainly will do so in the 2nd but by wait run the high risk of missing out on the top prospects available and forced to make due with a second tier long shot. On the other hand, they could take a less traditional route by finding their starter via trade. Perhaps the best available is Mike Glennon from TampaBay. He already has starting experience, stands a rangy 6’6″ with a good arm and a clear understanding of how to run an offense efficiently. Norv Turner could do a lot with him and he’s only 25-years old. Giving up a second round pick for that might be preferable to starting fresh with a less proven rookie.