Just a few weeks have passed since the NFL season came to a close, and now all 32 teams are finding ways to improve. One of those ways is via trade. Whether it’s for a pick or a player, there’s always a deal to be made. Thus far in the offseason, trade winds have been calm. However, it won’t be long until two teams come to an agreement. When that happens, more and more deals are likely to get done like clockwork. Here are some of the biggest names on the trade market:
Kirk Cousins, Quarterback, Washington Redskins
The biggest name on the trade market right now is Kirk Cousins. Cousins was drafted in the fourth round of the 2012 NFL Draft as support for the Redskins franchise quarterback Robert Griffin III, who was taken in the first round of the very same draft.
When Robert Griffin III struggled with injuries in the latter portion of the 2012 season, Cousins stepped right in and led the Redskins to two very impressive victories against the Baltimore Ravens and the Cleveland Browns.
In 2013, Cousins was called on again late in the season after Griffin struggled with injuries again. He yielded just 854 yards, four touchdowns and seven interceptions in five appearances, but still showed good composure and skill on a lackluster Redskins offense. Earlier in the month, Cousins stated that he was open for a trade and is ready to start. A team that is desperate for a quarterback may be willing to give up a lot to see what Cousins can do.
Brandon Weeden, Quarterback, Cleveland Browns
Brandon Weeden’s tenure in Cleveland has been a rocky one, to say the least. At the ripe age of 28, Weeden was selected in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft by the Browns, and was instantly given the reigns of the offense. Weeden’s first season was one of a few ups and even more downs, throwing for 3,385 yards, 14 touchdowns and 17 interceptions.
His sophomore season wasn’t any better either, as he only started five games due to injuries and poor play. Weeden has recently stated that he wants nothing more to do with Cleveland, and with good reason.
After a complete overhaul of the Cleveland Browns front office and coaching personnel paired with a high Cleveland Browns 2014 NFL Draft pick that will be most likely be used on a new quarterback, Weeden’s future in Cleveland looks bleak at best.
The 30-year-old quarterback will probably garner a few offers, but teams certainly won’t overpay for him, nor will the Browns let Weeden go for nothing.
Jonathan Martin, Offensive Tackle, Miami Dolphins
By now, most football fans recognize the name Jonathan Martin, and it’s not because he’s a superstar player. For the past four months, NFL headlines have been filled with the controversy that’s been happening in Miami with Martin and offensive guard Richie Incognito.
After leaving the team in late October due to personal reasons, the stories have been piling up, mainly being centered on the harassment of Martin by Incognito and company. Controversy aside, Martin is a very solid offensive tackle who can fill in at either left or right tackle.
He was selected in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft and has started 23 games in his short career. If a team is willing to take on the emotional baggage, Martin could prove to be a very cheap, yet productive addition to an offensive line.