NFL Trade Destinations for Top Holdouts and 2019 Free Agents
By Erik Lambert
The NFL trade landscape has changed in recent years. Teams used to rarely unload players but the arrival of a new generation of GMs has changed that.
The 2018 offseason was unprecedented in its number of deals, both big and small. It’s clearer than ever that teams are losing their fear of sending big names away or acquiring them in the name of trying to get better. This has made it exciting for the fans if nothing else. The question is whether the big movements are done or are they just beginning?
There are still plenty of names that could be in play for the trade deadline this fall. Names either still holding out from their respective teams or names that will be free agents in 2019 barring a last-second move. Here are some to watch and the likely teams they’d fit best on if they were to get dealt.
Teddy Bridgewater (QB)
Sam Darnold finally signed his rookie contract, so the original plan seems back in place. The New York Jets may not hand him the torch immediately but it’s almost inevitable at this point. Many feel they might try to play Teddy Bridgewater for a few games as sort of an audition to elevate his stock and then deal him before the trade deadline before moving to Darnold. Not a bad plan as Bridgewater is fully healthy now and respected around the league for his leadership traits.
Destination: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
It’s felt for quite some time that the Buccaneers are almost out of patience with Jameis Winston. The former #1 pick has been a headache off the field lately with his sexual assault allegations. His play on the field has elevated as high as they’d hoped either. Trading for Bridgewater might be the solution they need to get out from under him and move on without starting over from scratch.