The NFL Draft is upon us, and the excitement is palpable. One of the most exciting aspects of draft weekend is the potential for veteran trades. While that kind of transaction was unheard of a few years ago, NFL front offices are embracing more of a fantasy football mindset with each passing season. Last year, we saw the Eagles acquire A.J. Brown and the Cardinals trade for Marquise Brown. There’s the belief that we could see an ever-increasing number of veterans moved in draft-day deals as personnel departments get smarter about optimizing the value of players who no longer fit their long-term plans.
Most players rumored to be on the block likely won’t be moved. Some will become cap casualties before camps get underway, while others will remain with their teams and play out the string. That said, let’s look at some of the players who could be on the move this weekend.
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Quarterbacks
Lamar Jackson – The lack of interest in Jackson’s services by other teams and the recent signing of Odell Beckham Jr point to Jackson ultimately signing a new contract with the Ravens, but until there’s a new deal in place, we have to entertain the possibility Jackson could be a team’s attempt at vaulting into Super Bowl contention if their plans to acquire a promising rookie quarterback fall through on Thursday night.
Ryan Tannehill – There are persistent rumors that Tannehill could be on the move, as he’s got a relatively affordable contract and is in the final year of his contract. It’s known that the Titans have done a lot of diligence on the rookie class, despite spending a third-round pick on Malik Willis last year. Could new GM Ran Carthon pull off a deal with a desperate team who thinks they’re a veteran away from playoff contention?
Trey Lance – The front office and coaching staff have repeatedly endorsed Brock Purdy, and the addition of Sam Darnold further clouds Trey Lance’s future with the organization. We know teams have inquired about Lance’s availability. While we have no indication the 49ers are interested, it would make sense to consider moving the unproven signal caller for significant draft capital.
Wide Receivers
DeAndre Hopkins – In a world where Odell Beckham got $15mm which could be $18mm with incentives, acquiring Hopkins at $19.5mm in 2023 salary is a bet plenty of contending teams should consider. A series of Tweets this week hint that a deal may already be in place for Hopkins to join the Ravens.
Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton – Sean Payton has full control, there's new ownership, and one would think that makes punting either of these receivers viable if another team is willing to give up a Day 2 pick or a conditional 2024 pick.
Diontae Johnson – George Pickens has all the makings of an alpha receiver, and the Steelers’ acquisition of Allen Robinson has fueled speculation Johnson could be traded. Pittsburgh has a history of moving on from receivers rather than paying them high-end deals, so it’s not entirely out of the question.