2021 NFL Draft rumors: 10 players that could be traded
The 2021 NFL Draft is loaded with intrigue, but not just with the picks that will be spent on college players. Some of the intrigue will come from guys who are currently on the NFL’s unofficial “trade block”.
Although many teams are building for the future and looking for guys they can bring into their program and develop, some teams will be looking to take on veteran players who are proven in this league to fill holes in their roster.
Other trade opportunities that come about could be considered reclamation projects. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure, so to speak.
This year’s trade market — at least names that have been made public — includes mostly pass-catchers with a few other positions sprinkled in. Although the players available for trade undoubtedly exceeds the 10 on this list, there’s a decent chance a few of the players we have listed here will be traded sometime before or during the 2021 NFL Draft.
1. Orlando Brown Jr., OT, Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are not likely jumping at the first opportunity to trade offensive tackle Orlando Brown Jr.
Not long ago, Brown had one of the worst Scouting Combine performances anyone has ever seen.
Since that time, he’s become one of the best players at his position in the league. Unfortunately for the Baltimore Ravens, Brown wants to play the left tackle position on a full-time basis like his late father did.
The Ravens seem willing to oblige Brown’s request to be a full-time left tackle, but with Ronnie Stanley entrenched at that spot, they are giving Brown the opportunity to seek a trade elsewhere.
Recently, the Ravens brought in former Steelers tackle Alejandro Villanueva for a visit. Will that visit lead to a signing as a precursor that Brown trade talks are heating up? Possibly.
A team like the Indianapolis Colts — with a gaping hole at the left tackle position — seems to make plenty of sense for Brown but the Ravens might prefer to trade him to an NFC team. In that case, the Chicago Bears and Washington Football Team are in the market for starting left tackles, but Brown would have no shortage of suitors.
The Ravens should get at least a first-round pick in return for him, and Brown should get a hefty contract.