NFL

30 Offseason NFL Moves That Could Shake Up The Entire League

Darren Ryding - May 2, 2024

NFL

30 Offseason NFL Moves That Could Shake Up The Entire League

Darren Ryding - May 2, 2024

2022 is one of the most intriguing NFL offseasons in several years. That’s because several high-profile stars may move to other franchises in trades that could shake up the entire league. There could be a potential quarterback carousel involving the likes of Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson.

These are the two biggest names on the market. Of course, the chances are that most of these players on this list will stay put. Many of them will sign for completely different teams too. But it’s exciting to speculate about their futures and try to find the right fit for these big names. Check out the list via PFF.

30. Kyler Murray

This one will raise eyebrows but stranger things have happened in the NFL. It would also shake up the entire league. It looked like the Cardinals had found the future with Murray. However, tensions emerged between the franchise and their quarterback. Some backroom figures accuse him of being selfish and childish. Meanwhile, Murray wants to make as much money as possible.

In all likelihood, Murray will stay in Arizona. There are several potentially interesting trade options for the player though. Some have suggested that he could go to New York in exchange for Daniel Jones. But the Cardinals probably wouldn’t want this. Meanwhile, the Bucs and the Saints need a long-term answer to their quarterback vacancies (via The Spun).

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29. N’Keal Harry

Harry didn’t enjoy the best 2021 season. He only played in 12 games and it wasn’t a productive year. However, many analysts believe that he still has rich potential. Unfortunately, it may take a trade for him to clear the cobwebs. It doesn’t look like he will step up to the next level with the Patriots. That’s why he should consider an offseason move.

The Chicago Bears are a good potential fit for the receiver. It would shake up their offense and give Justin Fields another interesting weapon. Harry has the physique and athletic qualities to be an elite wideout. But the Patriots won’t give him that opportunity. He only has a limited period to revive his career. That’s why he must be careful about his next destination (via Boston.com).

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28. Clelin Ferrell

Ferrell is another player who needs a big move to shake up his career. He’s not a bad player but he’s facing a losing battle in Las Vegas. The Raiders have Maxx Crosby and Yannick Ngakoue at defensive end. Those are fantastic options and make it unlikely that the franchise will pick up his fifth year. This may be a blessing in disguise for Ferrell (via USA Today Sports).

Mandatory Credit: Las Vegas Journal-Review

He has had eight sacks and 24 quarterback hits since he entered the league but the Raiders expected more production from a former first-round pick. A team like Dallas or New Orleans may have an interest in the former Clemson star. However, Ferrell has low value and is currently straddling the line between potential and bust. He has so much to prove and it’s time for the Raiders to move on.

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27. Gardner Minshew

Minshew is a charismatic figure and fans love him. Even if he never blossoms into a genuine starter, he’s got something about him. After an unceremonious exit from Jacksonville, he joined the Eagles. Minshew didn’t play much in 2021 but impressed fans in a win over the Jets. However, it should be remembered that this was the Jets and they weren’t exactly world-beaters.

Philly will move either Minshew or Jalen Hurts on. Right now, Minshew is the logical option. The Panthers have strong links to the man with the best mustache in the NFL. It would shake up their roster and give Sam Darnold something to think about. These franchises have struggled to find a decent starter in recent years. Minshew may receive a unique opportunity in Carolina (via New Jersey.com)

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26. Brandin Cooks

Cooks has played for four teams in his eight-year NFL tenure and he may be on the move again. The wide receiver currently plays for the Texans. His time in Houston has been effective with back-to-back 1000-yard seasons. However, they want to rebuild for the infinite time. He will likely be a casualty of their inevitable purge in pursuit of mediocrity (via Sportsnaut).

One team that would make sense is the Raiders. They need a top wideout and Cooks fits the bill. Furthermore, a move to Nevada would reunite him with Josh McDaniels. McDaniels was his former offensive coordinator in a very productive season with the New England Patriots. This would shake up the Raiders but there are other options. The Cardinals and Cowboys may also show interest.

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25. Jimmy Garoppolo

There was a time when Bill Belichick seriously believed that Jimmy G. was Tom Brady’s successor. We live in a very different world now. The NFL’s most frustrating quarterback is on the outs in San Fran because Trey Lance will be the starter in 2022. This means that Garoppolo will join the offseason quarterback carousel (via CBS Sports).

His decision could help shake up the league. Garoppolo makes sense for several franchises. The Steelers need a replacement for Ben Roethlisberger. Meanwhile, the Saints and Texans need more options. Even Denver could show interest if they can’t get Aaron Rodgers. As many as 11 teams may be keeping a close eye on proceedings. That shows he still has a high ceiling.

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24. Davante Adams

The Denver Broncos have a devious plan to shake up the NFL. They want to bring Aaron Rodgers and his best weapon to the Mile High City. They may have a better chance with the former than with Adams. Green Bay is naturally desperate to hang onto their star wide receiver. In 2021, he had a career-high 1553 receiving yards with 123 total receptions (via Game 7).

They will put the franchise tag on him but that doesn’t close the door. Jacksonville needs a star receiver to get the best out of Trevor Lawrence. The same can be said of the Chargers with Justin Fields. Meanwhile, the Raiders are in a similar situation. The best situation for Adams is probably a move to Denver. But it’s just as likely that he’ll stay in Wisconsin.

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23. Derek Carr

Carr will likely stay in Las Vegas. Their new coach, Josh McDaniels, likes the quarterback. There’s also a sense that he’s one of the league’s most underrated players. However, CBS Sports (via The Spun) has another theory. They believe that there is a scenario where the Raiders shake up the NFL. It’s improbable but not impossible.

In short, we’re talking about the Colts. They believe that Indianapolis is desperate to get their hands on a consistent quarterback. After a pair of years in purgatory with Philip Rivers and Carson Wentz, they want a safe pair of hands. On paper, Carr offers this and even more. Once again, most people doubt that it will happen but it’s fun to imagine.

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22. Landon Collins

Every team needs a good safety. However, the Commanders may offload Collins as a trade piece. Washington will save $11.5 million in salary if they let him go. Collins performed well in a hybrid role for the franchise. But there’s a chance that they get rid of him. The cost of keeping him is too high when they have other players in a similar role.

Where does he go? This is a difficult question to answer because there aren’t lots of options. Fans bemoan his poor coverage skills and bloated contract. However, there is always room for a strong hitter. Collins was good for the Giants. But the Commanders may be the real winners if they can get him off their books. It will help them to shake up their roster (via Fansided).

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21. Danielle Hunter

Hunter is a superb edge rusher. The problem is that he struggles to stay healthy. That’s why the Vikings will seriously consider making him a cap casualty. After just seven games in two seasons, they may decide to move on. It’s not a reflection on his ability or commitment. But it may be time to capitalize on his remaining value. there should be interested suitors (via Forbes).

The Buffalo Bills are one of the teams who fit the bill. They want to strengthen their defense after a cruel end to their postseason. Buffalo has a chip on their shoulder and Hunter would add quality to their roster. They would also reunite him with Stefon Diggs. The issue is whether or not they want to give up a couple of picks to bring him to New York State.

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20. D.K. Metcalf

The tragedy of Henry Ruggs III has left the Raiders with a gaping hole in their offense. He was Derek Carr’s breakout receiver in 2021 before the fatal collision that killed a woman. Now the Raiders need to replace their former star. It’s a shame because Ruggs had all the talent in the world. But he’s set to spend the best years of his life behind bars. That’s where Metcalf enters the picture.

Seattle wants to rebuild and Metcalf may be a casualty. They lack a first-round pick in the 2022 draft and Metcalf is a good bargaining chip. This would help them to shake up their roster. It would be an amazing deal for the Raiders because he’s a bonafide starter. However, this is a serious risk for the Seahawks especially if their pick is a future bust (via Sportsnaut).

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19. Zach Wilson

First, let’s caveat this by saying it’s unlikely to happen. We’re talking about a tale of two Wilsons. After a rough rookie season with the Jets, Zach Wilson is out to prove he’s their long-term answer. But he may not receive the chance if they shake up the NFL by moving for his namesake Russell. The elder Wilson has a tumultuous relationship with the Seahawks.

There are rumors that the Jets are interesting in trading Zach for Russell. However, Chris Simms believes that the Jets would do better to keep their youngster. He believes that Zach moves better than Russell and has a superior arm. The reality is that most Jets fans would swap the two in a heartbeat. But does the trade make sense for Seattle? Probably not.

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18. Mitchell Trubisky

Trubisky didn’t have an ideal 2021 after sitting behind Josh Allen all season. However, it may have benefited the former Bears starter. He was decent when he did appear for the Bills. A year away from the spotlight may have been good for his mind. Several franchises retain an interest in him as a stop-gap starter. These include the Colts, among others.

Carson Wentz isn’t Indy’s answer so they may look to Trubisky as an alternative. Meanwhile, the Steelers may also show interest in Trubisky (via SBNation). He’s not the big-name quarterback other teams want. But they only need a decent starter to shake up their offense. Then they may have the potential to go on a deep playoff run. Only time will tell if that’s what will happen.

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17. Garrett Bradbury

Many NFL analysts still believe that Bradbury can become a top NFL center. However, right now he is a bust and the Vikings want to forget about him. Minnesota has a bad record of drafting centers early. If they can get this right, it will shake up their team and the NFC North. The first step is to move Bradbury on. Then, they can replace him with someone like Ben Jones.

Jones has played well for the Tennessee Titans. He’s been a top-10 NFL center for the past three seasons so he would be a massive upgrade. Meanwhile, he wouldn’t break the bank either. They would only pay a couple of million more per season but for a superior player. PFF called Bradbury the Vikings’ worst draft pick for five seasons. It’s a shame he became such a wasted pick (via Sports Illustrated).

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16. Daniel Jones

It’s not a secret that the Giants won’t pick up Jones’ fifth-year option. However, the question now is if the quarterback will stay for a fourth season. This franchise is a disaster and they need to shake up everything. But a top QB will make a great building block. Unfortunately, Jones hasn’t shown that he can deliver in the Big Apple and that’s why they may trade him (via Clutchpoints).

Rumors link the Giants to DeShaun Watson and Mitchell Trubisky. But where would Jones go? The Colts are a good potential fit because they’re desperate. Meanwhile, their offensive targets may allow Jones to jump to the next level. The Giants are dysfunctional so a trade may benefit him. Another intriguing option is the Carolina Panthers because they will have an opening too.

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15. Ryan Jensen

The Bengals have maintained links to Jensen for a couple of seasons. But the difference between now and then is that they’re now an attractive team. After a Super Bowl appearance, it’s time for Cincinnati to consolidate. The presence of Joe Burrow makes them a popular franchise to join. However, time is ticking so they need to exploit this for all its worth.

Jensen is a veteran center and a capable NFL player. He would likely push Trey Hopkins off the team. Ultimately, the offensive line cost the Bengals last season. If they can improve this and maintain their devastating offense, they’ll be an exciting prospect. Jensen isn’t the sexiest player in the NFL but every team needs athletes like him (via USA Today Sports).

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14. Jameis Winston

Winston was an NFL starter for five seasons before joining the Saints. Finally, after the retirement of Drew Brees, he received his opportunity in New Orleans. However, he wasn’t outstanding for the franchise. Winston started seven games for the team and it’s safe to say that he isn’t their long-term option. The question then is where he will go next (via CBS Sports).

The Steelers came up frequently on this list but they’re here again. Winston makes sense as a stop-gap solution for Pittsburgh. Sure, he might not excite their fanbase but it’s going to be difficult for everybody to get the player they want. Another change of scene may be good for Winston, especially if he revives his career. Stranger things have happened in the NFL.

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13. Baker Mayfield

Mayfield has had a tumultuous career in the NFL. The quarterback was excellent in the beginning before a downward spiral. Then the Browns made the postseason in 2020. Everybody thought that this was a new dawn. However, they regressed the following season. Meanwhile, Odell Beckham Jr. made Mayfield look terrible by leaving Cleveland to win the Super Bowl with the Rams.

Mayfield will likely be the Browns’ starter in 2022. However, they are keeping a close eye on proceedings elsewhere. They may bring in somebody like Russell Wilson. Failing that, a Teddy Bridgewater or Mitchell Trubisky will materialize. Mayfield could join the quarterback carousel (via Bleacher Report).

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12. Za’Darius Smith

The Packers are in a terrible salary cap position. Right now, they have a superb team on paper. They probably should have made the Super Bowl in 2021 but choked. Now that team may fall apart. Their top pass rusher, Smith, could be a casualty of the team’s cap situation. If they cut him, the Packers will gain over $15 million in cap relief. They’ll lose a great player but they’re in a tight position.

Furthermore, Kansas City has a clear interest in him. Frank Clark isn’t up to the job because the Chiefs finished 29th in sacks last season. Meanwhile, there are doubts about Melvin Ingram’s future. It’s a deal that could make sense for both parties. Of course, the biggest loser would be the AFC because nobody needs a stronger Kansas City (via Pro Football Network).

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11. Calvin Ridley

Things didn’t go the way Ridley and the Falcons wanted in 2021. He played five games before a mental health issue ended his season. However, he’s still a blue-chip talent and a player that the Falcons are desperate to retain. But if they can’t, they’ll be desperate to milk his value for all its worth. A first-round pick is certainly within the bounds of possibility.

Teams like Miami and Detroit may have a strong interest in the wide receiver. Meanwhile, the Patriots may be in the driving seat. There are rumors of a trade involving a second-round pick and Chase Winovich. Ridley’s recent issues may deter some teams but he’s got the skills. It could shake up a team if he finds the right fit. That may be outside of Georgia (via Alabama.com).

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10. Kirk Cousins

It appears increasingly likely that Cousins won’t be in Minnesota this season. The quarterback only has a season left on his current contract and is open to offers. Cousins has his flaws but his trade stock will never be higher. There may even be a surprising move in store for him. Everybody knows that the Broncos want Aaron Rodgers. But Cousins appears to be their second-choice option (via The Spun).

Mile High fans will roll their eyes because this is a bit anticlimactic. Of course, this depends on what’s involved. The Vikings would like to lose some of his $45 million cap hit. However, the Broncos are cap-healthy and Cousins isn’t a top-tier QB. Wilson and Rodgers are available but Cousins is the best of the rest. It’s a strong possibility but by no means a guarantee.

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9. Carson Wentz

There is a possibility that Wentz remains in place for another season. For all the talk of a quarterback carousel this offseason, it’s not going to be easy to get one. However, the Colts are desperate to offload Wentz and lift the franchise out of purgatory. Unfortunately, they will have to bite the bullet and accept a big portion of compensation (via ESPN).

Then there is the conversation of who wants him? Wentz is possibly the least-inspiring quarterback in the league right now. He’s not the man to shake up a roster. Dan Snyder doesn’t care about antagonizing his fans. The Commanders may be a surprisingly good fit for Wentz. They may pull the trigger if the deal makes sense. It can’t be worse than their situation last year.

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8. Christian McCaffrey

McCaffrey became the highest-paid running back in history in 2019. However, life hasn’t been kind to the Panthers’ star since. Injuries curtailed his efforts over the past couple of seasons. That’s why Carolina is reportedly open to doing business. McCaffrey received $30 million for just 10 games since they gave him that massive contract (via USA Today).

Buffalo makes sense as a potential trade destination for the electric running back. McCaffrey is still just 25 and had an insane 2019. He became the third player to have 1,000 rushing yards and receiving yards in the same season. He is a risk because of his injury record but if the Bills could keep him on the field, it would be amazing. This is one that the Bills Mafia will be watching.

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7. Amari Cooper

In 2020, Dallas signed Cooper to a five-year, $100 million contract. However, they wisely inserted an escape clause that they may activate in 2022. It appears as though they will release him because they are desperate for cap space. Ezekiel Elliot’s deal is harming other members of the roster and Cooper will be a casualty of this (via Sportsnaut).

The next question is where will Cooper land? There are several intriguing options because several teams need a good wide receiver. The Jaguars are an obvious candidate because they want to give Trevor Lawrence a new weapon. Meanwhile, the Bears and the Dolphins will have a similar idea for their young QBs. Cooper will shake up whichever team he goes to.

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6. Trey Flowers

It seems crazy that the Lions would trade their captain and one of their best players. But Flowers isn’t as robust as he once was. Furthermore, his contract is outrageous and a drain on their cap space. At the very least, Detroit must restructure his deal. He has only played 14 games over the past couple of seasons. There was also a statistical decline over that period (via Detroit News).

Flowers won’t lose sleep over the Lions’ decision. The linebacker will find a good landing spot because there is always room for someone of his caliber. A team like the Saints or the Chiefs will benefit from his signing. Meanwhile, Detroit will gain $17 million in cap space. That’s a massive chunk of cash so a parting of the ways appears inevitable.

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5. DeShaun Watson

If any team can sign Watson it will shake up the entire league. Yes, he missed an entire season, but he’s still a blue-chip quarterback. On his day, he’s a top-five talent. But the problem is that his legal issues are rolling on and on. That’s why the Texans are struggling to find somebody to take him. It’s no surprise because a conviction will make him worthless to any franchise.

However, that doesn’t stop teams like Philadelphia from retaining interest. The Dolphins and the Panthers have abstained because of Watson’s legal situation. The Eagles may do a deal before Watson settles his civil suits. Another option is that the Texans simply cut him from their roster. They would lose his massive trade value but it may be worth it (via SBNation).

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4. Matt Ryan

Ryan is a Falcons legend. The Atlanta quarterback won the NFL MVP award in 2016 and came close to a Super Bowl victory. However, he’s 37 and the Falcons are no longer in contention. The franchise needs a rebuild, and Ryan’s time as a starter is drawing to a close. They may retain him for another season or two because he provides a stable presence.

But that doesn’t mean they wouldn’t trade him if it made sense. Cleveland is a team that would benefit from somebody like Ryan. Everybody knows Baker Mayfield isn’t going to win them championships. If they could bring in Ryan they’d instantly shake up the team. He would bring maturity, quality, and a winning mentality to the Browns (via Sporting News).

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3. Saquon Barkley

On paper, Barkley is the Giants’ best player. Unfortunately, he’s as fragile as their hopes of winning a Super Bowl. The running back has had a terrible injury record over the past couple of years. This doesn’t mean that they want to lose him. After all, he’s still the face of the franchise. They would prefer to lose James Bradberry instead. In the end, money talks.

The Colts are one team that retains an interest in Barkley. A fourth-round pick with another couple thrown in could be enough to lure the Giants into a deal. Whoever can keep Barkley fit will gain an amazing player. After all, the Giants are a joke of a franchise with a bang-average quarterback. Nobody can prosper in that kind of situation (via New York Post).

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2. Russell Wilson

It’s bizarre to imagine Wilson playing in another team’s colors. In reality, this is a distinct possibility in 2022. His trade would shake up the entire NFL because Wilson is a potential MVP contender. Seattle already declined Washington’s offer for the want-away quarterback. They’re not the only franchise who would love to sign one of the best of his generation (via Sportscasting).

Allegedly, the Commanders offered the Seahawks multiple first-round picks for Wilson. Other potential suitors include the Eagles and the Broncos. However, Pete Carroll is adamant that Seattle will keep their biggest star. This isn’t impossible. It did seem like the franchise would say goodbye to either their head coach or their quarterback in 2022. They may keep both.

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1. Aaron Rodgers

All eyes are on Rodgers before the trade deadline. The Packers are desperate to retain his services. Meanwhile, everybody knows that Denver plans to test their resolve. But Rodgers may even retire and leave the game behind. He has several prime years left but perhaps his competitive spirit no longer remains. However, the Broncos want him and Davante Adams.

Denver is ready to offer a massive haul of draft picks for the star quarterback. These include a pair of first-rounders. It’s up to Green Bay if they’re willing to do business. It would shake up the NFL because the Broncos would become instant contenders. Many people question Rodgers’ playoff record but a fresh start could bring him to the next level. Only time will tell (via Sports Illustrated).

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30 Offseason NFL Moves That Could Shake Up The Entire League

30 Offseason NFL Moves That Could Shake Up The Entire League

30. Kyler Murray

29. N’Keal Harry

28. Clelin Ferrell

27. Gardner Minshew

26. Brandin Cooks

25. Jimmy Garoppolo

24. Davante Adams

23. Derek Carr

22. Landon Collins

21. Danielle Hunter

20. D.K. Metcalf

19. Zach Wilson

18. Mitchell Trubisky

17. Garrett Bradbury

16. Daniel Jones

15. Ryan Jensen

14. Jameis Winston

13. Baker Mayfield

12. Za’Darius Smith

11. Calvin Ridley

10. Kirk Cousins

9. Carson Wentz

8. Christian McCaffrey

7. Amari Cooper

6. Trey Flowers

5. DeShaun Watson

4. Matt Ryan

3. Saquon Barkley

2. Russell Wilson

1. Aaron Rodgers

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