The NFL roster-cutdown deadline, often accurately described as the first crack at a 53-man roster that, by nature, is a fluid construction, is one of the most active personnel situations in the annual league calendar. Dreams are realized, die, or are often delayed with the trigger of an oft-utilized phrase: “Coach needs to see you, bring your playbook-iPad.”
As much as roster cuts and waiver claims dominate the conversation, there are trade scenarios that are explored, and occasionally, there’s legitimate action amid all of the rumors and speculation. Here’s a look at some NFL trade candidates ahead of Week 1.
NFL trade candidates
Jimmy Garoppolo, QB, San Francisco 49ers
Jimmy Garoppolo definitely still has some value, but it’s his contract, recent injury history, and underwhelming play last year that makes it difficult for the 49ers to get much in return for the veteran passer. The knowledge around the league is that the 49ers have already replaced Garoppolo. Their commitment to Trey Lance as the starter hurts Garoppolo’s trade stock.
Yes, Garoppolo is healthy. He passed his physical after undergoing surgery on his right throwing shoulder earlier this offseason. And the 49ers didn’t force him to practice, allowing Garoppolo to throw on his own and lift weights while the other players worked out.
The Cleveland Browns — who are going with Jacoby Brissett with Deshaun Watson suspended — and Seattle Seahawks, who named Geno Smith as their starter over Drew Lock, could arguably use Garoppolo’s services.
The fact that Garoppolo will have some rust to shed is undoubtedly a factor.
Add this statement from 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan: “Can’t just give one of the better quarterbacks in the league just to make him available for no reason to the whole world.”
Garoppolo’s agents were previously granted permission to pursue trade opportunities in March, according to league sources not authorized to speak publicly. Despite that amount of time, no trade is imminent or developing, per sources, because there are only a few places where he makes sense, including the Seahawks and Browns.
It’s considered likely that any new NFL employer will want to adjust Garoppolo’s contract. They could even ask the 49ers to pay a portion of his salary to facilitate a potential trade.
Jalen Reagor, WR, Philadelphia Eagles
Eagles wide receiver Jalen Reagor, a speedy former first-round draft pick from TCU, is regarded as available for trade in return for a late-round draft pick, per league sources.
Perhaps Reagor could be a fit in Denver, where the Broncos are a team that has lost some wide receivers, including Tim Patrick to a torn ACL.
As a rookie, Reagor caught 31 passes for 396 yards and a touchdown. Last season, he had 33 catches for 299 yards and two touchdowns. He trails A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Quez Watkins, and Zach Pascal on the depth chart.
A fresh start would benefit Reagor, who still has upside and speed working in his favor. And the Eagles could at least get something in return. Eagles general manager Howie Roseman is an active, aggressive trade veteran. It wouldn’t be surprising if he’s able to manufacture a trade market for Reagor despite his lack of production.
Zack Moss, RB, Buffalo Bills
Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane already traded offensive guard Cody Ford to the Arizona Cardinals, and he’s still likely to be active heading into the regular season with potential trades to stockpile draft picks.
Beane’s also looking for a new punter via free agency or waivers after releasing punter Matt Araiza following the accusation of him participating in a gang rape involving an underage female.
Zack Moss has talent, but he’s also in a crowded position. Moss had a strong training camp, but Devin Singletary and James Cook are the leaders in the Bills’ backfield. Buffalo also has Duke Johnson on the roster as a proven veteran.
A former Utah standout, Moss remains on his rookie contract.
O.J. Howard, TE, Buffalo Bills
Tight end O.J. Howard, by all accounts, hasn’t excelled during the preseason. Howard’s currently slated for backup duty, but he’s a good athlete and has caught all three passes thrown to him.
If the Bills move on, they can go with Tommy Sweeney and Quintin Morris behind starter Dawson Knox. There aren’t any heavy financial ramifications by potentially trading Howard.