Title: NFL Trade Deadline Approaches with Lopsided Asking Prices and Potential Blockbusters
Subtitle: Teams Engage in Negotiations as Tuesday Deadline Nears
As the NFL trade deadline rapidly approaches, teams are finding themselves caught in a feeling-out process due to lopsided asking prices from both buyers and sellers. Despite the anticipation for major trades, sources at the executive level suggest that the real action will heat up in the final days leading up to Tuesday’s deadline.
Pass rushers have been commanding attention in the trade talks, with teams reaching out to the Washington Commanders regarding their defensive ends Chase Young and Montez Sweat. As the Commanders have experienced recent losses and with free agency looming for both players, the potential return for either player remains uncertain. However, a trade involving Bradley Chubb from last year could serve as a comparable model, where the Miami Dolphins sent a first-round pick to the Denver Broncos and later secured a massive contract extension with Chubb.
Industry sources suggest that Sweat may hold more trade value than Young due to his better health record. With a career total of 34.5 sacks, including 5.5 this season, Sweat’s durability could make him an attractive option for potential buyers. Young, on the other hand, has accumulated five sacks in six games this season but has faced concerns about his durability, which might complicate his price tag.
Brian Burns, the Carolina Panthers’ pass rusher, has emerged as a popular name among opposing front offices. Nevertheless, the Panthers have shown no interest in moving Burns, who has four sacks this season. While the team has been unable to reach a long-term extension with Burns so far, his young age, 42 career sacks, and potential as a franchise cornerstone make him an integral part of the Panthers’ defense.
Meanwhile, the Tennessee Titans’ recent trade of safety Kevin Byard has sparked speculation about potential further moves by the struggling team. With quarterback Ryan Tannehill set to miss more time and the Titans suffering from a series of losses, other teams are expected to inquire about running back Derrick Henry, wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, and defensive end Denico Autry. The Titans could use this opportunity to stockpile future draft picks.
The New England Patriots, with a 2-5 record, have left opposing executives puzzled as to whether they intend to be buyers or sellers. Their recent victory over the Buffalo Bills and the upcoming game against the Miami Dolphins could significantly impact their trade deadline strategy. While the Patriots have players with impending free agency who could attract other teams, it remains unclear if the Patriots will be willing to part ways with them or risk depleting their resources for rookie quarterback Mac Jones.
The increased activity at the trade deadline in recent years has been attributed to advancements in scouting technology. Front offices can now evaluate pro personnel more efficiently by utilizing computer software to identify specific player attributes based on their snaps from previous seasons. This advanced technological capability allows teams to make more informed trade decisions and be more willing to part with future draft picks.
As the NFL trade deadline draws near, teams will continue to weigh their options, negotiate deals, and assess the potential impact of trades. With lopsided asking prices and significant names on the block, fans can expect an exciting end to the trade deadline period.