NFL Trade Deadline: Grades and reactions to huge moves

Jimmy Garoppolo to 49ers

Grade for 49ers: A

As it has been pointed out by the likes of Daniel Jeremiah and Bucky Brooks, this move is somewhat of an indictment on the 2018 class of quarterbacks, given the 49ers’ current standing in the draft order.

With no wins yet this season, the 49ers would be in prime position to acquire the quarterback they want come time for the Spring, but this move seems to indicate they feel more comfortable with Garoppolo than anyone in the up-coming class.

It could also be that the 49ers and their new regime just hate losing, and they’d rather get a quarterback on board with their system before having to install the offense next offseason.

So now, the Niners get the quarterback they want, one that has NFL starting experience, and has shown he can play in this league. Can he do it on a consistent basis? For the potential of a franchise quarterback, a second round pick is a relatively small price to pay. I like the value here for the 49ers.

Grade for Patriots: B

I gave the Patriots an above average grade here after having some time to think about it. Typically, I would give an ‘A’ grade to a team that got a second round pick for a player that never plays, but this year is the first year we’ve really seen signs of physical regression from Tom Brady, so this trade means a couple of things.

First, it means the Patriots couldn’t get Garoppolo signed to a long term deal, and didn’t want to have to franchise tag him to keep him.

Second, it means the Patriots no longer have their Brady contingency.

That’s a pretty big deal, but that’s what free agency and the draft is for. The Patriots could very well find their new heir apparent in next year’s draft, and no one’s going to think twice about this trade unless Garoppolo becomes great.

I think getting a pick for a guy that was going to be gone is a good move, but it’s unfortunate the Patriots couldn’t keep their plan for the future post-Brady in place.