What If The NFL Trade Deadline Were More Like MLB's?

By: Kim O'Hara | Posted: November 01, 2012

In just about every season, the NFL trade deadline comes and goes with little fanfare, unlike its professional sport contemporaries the NBA and MLB. The reasons for this are a diverse many, and it sounds like former Jaguars wide receiver Mike Thomas to the Lions is the extent of 2012's excitement. But with the NFL trade deadline looming today, the day after Halloween, we at TFG thought it would be fun to imagine a few scenarios with high profile NFL players in different uniforms. 

Disclaimer: These proposed trades are 100% without basis or merit; they’re strictly pie-in-the-sky nonsense from our vivid imaginations!

Rams-Panthers-Colts: RB Steven Jackson to Colts, LB Robert Mathis to Panthers, WR Steve Smith to Rams 

The Rams appear to be amenable to parting ways with running back Steven Jackson, as they will allow him to seek a trade with one year remaining on his contract at the end of the 2012 season. Rookie Daryl Richardson has looked promising as Jackson’s replacement, but the Rams are in desperate need of a receiver. Speaking of desperate need, the one-two punch of Donald Brown and Vick Ballard has been an underwhelming (to say the least) facet of an otherwise up-and-coming Colts offense. A running back of Jackson’s caliber could be the difference between a cute 2012 comeback story and an enduring return to Indianapolis relevance. 

Carolina’s defense needs some serious help this season, and Robert Mathis (though recovering from a knee injury that's kept him sidelined for three games) could help improve a lackluster pass rush. With the loss of Jon Beason for the season, rookie Luke Kuechly, though immensely talented, can’t do it all himself. Mathis could be a great help. 

Steve Smith has no desire to leave Carolina, but the Panthers’ season is a sinking ship. They could unload at a few positions (see the next proposed trade), and why not drop its veteran wide receiver? Smith has been underutilized in Carolina’s offense so far, and Rams QB Sam Bradford may finally approach his potential with a receiver of Smith’s caliber. The combination of Smith with a healthy Danny Amendola could do wonders for the Rams’ offense.

Panthers-Lions: RB DeAngelo Williams for WR Ryan Broyles and a fifth round draft pick 

One of former Carolina general manager Marty Hurney’s biggest gaffes was overpaying for two comparable running backs in DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. Williams has scarcely seen the ball in 2012 but is far from ineffective as an NFL running back. Detroit could use additional support at the position. 

Rookie Ryan Broyles has come on strong since Detroit’s bye, with a pair of touchdowns and 88 yards on six receptions, and would be another fresh addition to Cam Newton’s arsenal. Carolina could then use the draft pick to bulk up on any number of areas that need help.

Seahawks-Steelers: SS Kam Chancellor for WR Mike Wallace 

Seattle has a remarkably deep secondary, with all four formidable starters over six feet. It has a terrific running game, with perennial top ten rusher Marshawn Lynch carrying the load. What it could REALLY use is a full, healthy roster of receivers. Especially ones that will hold onto passes from rookie Russell Wilson. Despite his poor showing in Cincinnati two weeks ago, Mike Wallace is as reliable a receiver as they come. His health has been stable and he’s faster than just about any cover guy opponents throw at him. He would be an instant boost for the Seahawk’s offense. 

Pittsburgh’s defense has improved with the health of all four starting linebackers, but its secondary is still a liability, particularly without strong safety Troy Polamalu. As painful as it may be for Steelers’ fans to admit, it may be time to strongly consider a viable alternative to “The Hair”. At 31, the face of the franchise has been plagued with injuries and may never return to the dominance he so enjoyed over the course of his career. Backups Will Allen and Ryan Mundy are serviceable, but hardly qualified to improve Pittsburgh’s defense. Kam Chancellor may lack Polamalu’s instincts or ability to read plays (who doesn’t?) but his size and speed would make a huge difference in the Steelers’ pass D.

Dolphins-Saints: LB Karlos Dansby for WR Lance Moore and a sixth round draft pick 

Much like St. Louis, Miami is one accomplished receiver away from beginning to firmly establish its offense as a contender. Moore has spent his career behind the likes of Marques Colston, Robert Meachem and Devery Henderson, but has the hands and speed of an elite receiver. He just needs the opportunity. Miami quarterback Ryan Tannehill may not be Drew Brees (yet), but he’s looked sharp in his rookie season with a veritable dearth of receivers. Moore and Tannehill could help each other reach elite potential. 

Miami’s defense has been fantastic this season, and it’s in large part thanks to veteran and leading tackler Karlos Dansby. In his 9^th year, Dansby is a vital part to a great run-stopping defense. He would, by no means, be able to singlehandedly solve the disaster that is New Orleans’ defense, but he could transition seamlessly from one 4-3 to the next and provide leadership on a very troubled unit. 

Your turn! What wild, never-in-a-million-years trades would you like to see?

Kim O'Hara is the Associate Editor of TheFootballGirl.com. She is an avid fan of sports in general, but the NFL in particular. She has also been a contributor to ESPN the Magazine. Follow her on Twitter: @KimOHaraTFG 

Check out more After Further Review... 

Write a comment

• Required fields are marked with *.

Name:
Email:
Subject:
Comment: *

Help prevent spam - enter security code above:
 

Arahomik
Posts: 1

To: John E.
Reply #2 on : Thu November 01, 2012, 13:50:40

---

What a great idea! That's a trade that would benefit all parties. Wouldn't it be fun to see Bowe on a competent offense?

John E.
Posts: 1

Pie-In-The-Sky Trades
Reply #1 on : Thu November 01, 2012, 12:57:42

---

Joe Webb to the Chiefs for Dwayne Bowe. Webb gives KC a versatility & can provide some excitement among the dullest QB group in the NFL. Bowe is the much-needed complement to Percy Harvin for the Minnesota passing game & its young QB.