The NFL trade deadline is the least exciting of the major sports bargaining days. In the three other major sports, it’s a mini-heart attack waiting to see if your team will buy or sell, add a piece to help make a run at a title or grab a key draft pick to help rebuild for the future. In football, it’s more like a fifth rounder for Khile Davis (a recent swap between the Chiefs and Packers).
However, there are some pretty putrid teams this season, and with the deadline closing in — it is at 4 p.m. on Nov. 1 — there are five teams that really should think about selling high on some key players. Here’s a brief look at the five struggling franchises and who they should move:
Browns (0-7):LT Joe Thomas, WR Terrell Prior III
These two players could get really good returns if they are moved now. Thomas is among the best in the league and is 31-years-old. He’s never played for a winning team before and should be willing to move somewhere to chase a title. Prior seemingly came out of nowhere on a one-year-deal and Cleveland would be wise to trade him before he becomes a free agent and signs a big deal elsewhere. Bears (1-6): WRAlshon Jeffery
Rumors linking the Eagles and Jeffery may prove to be false, but the Bears should start packing things in and chasing the No. 1 pick. Their most valuable asset is their stud receiver, who will demand a kings ransom on the open market when he’s a free agent next season. He’ll cost any team a third rounder in free agency, so that gives the Bears an upperhand at negotiating. 49ers (1-6):LT Joe Staley
Another really good offensive lineman could be on the market, as the Niners have relatively few valuable assets and appear to be destined to finish the year at the bottom of the NFC West. The Patriots, Seahawks and Broncos have all been linked to both Staley and Thomas, all needing help up front offensively. Jets (2-6): DE SheldonRichardson
The Jets are in a weird situation in comparison to other supposed sellers, as they have a lot of really talented players — many of whom inked long-term (like Muhammad Wilkerson). However, they are extremely deep on their defensive line, and the troubled defensive lineman, Richardson, might be a way for the Jets to hedge their bets as they head into a very important draft in 2017. Panthers (1-5): DTKawann Short, WR Ted Ginn
The Panthers have spiraled to the bottom of a weak conference and are best to regroup for next year. With few expiring contracts on the docket, the two players listed above could yield a positive return and likely won’t be returning to the team in 2017.
NFL Trade Deadline: who the Jets, Bears, Browns, Panthers and 49ers should sell
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