By Mike Rifkin
At the NFL draft combine on Wednesday Jets GM Joe Douglas told reporters that the team has granted permission to Quarterback Zach Wilson has been granted permission to seek a trade. Wilson, the second overall pick in 2021 struggled in his first two seasons. His struggles and a very good defense made the Jets go out and trade for Aaron Rodgers. (that’s a whole other article) (https://thesportsinsanitynetwork.com/2024/02/09/dys-function-junction-is-your-function/)
Wilson will benefit from a change of scenery, but he might have to take a similar route to a few other second overall picks Mitch Trubisky and Carson Wentz and have to compete for a job or be the backup. So here is a list of teams that could trade for Wilson.
Denver Broncos : Everyone expects the Broncos to cut Russell Wilson after two down seasons. If Sean Payton thinks he can fix Zach Wilson, the Broncos could make a lot of sense.
Pittsburgh Steelers : One of the worst kept secrets in the NFL is that the Steelers are going to acquire a Quarterback to compete with Kenny Pickett for the starting gig. The problem is if you sign a Russell Wilson or Kirk Cousins, you’re not signing them to compete they have to start. So someone like Zach Wilson could make more sense for the Steelers.
Minnesota Vikings : The Vikings have a dilemma, they might have to decide between retaining Kirk Cousins or Justin Jefferson. The Vikings have already said they’re unwilling to give Cousins the same deal as his last two deals (fully guaranteed money). Even if they find a way to retain Cousins and keep Jefferson, they can acquire Wilson to be the backup.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers : If the Bucs are unable to land a contract for Baker Mayfield they could wind up trading for Wilson and signing a veteran to compete for the starting role.
Los Angeles Rams : If there are two people who might be able to fix Wilson, it would be Sean Mcvay and Matthew Stafford. Eventually Stafford will retire and the Rams will have to figure out what the team looks like when that day comes, buying low on Zach Wilson makes a ton of sense.
Atlanta Falcons : Whether it’s Justin Fields, Kirk Cousins or Russell Wilson the Atlanta Falcons are in the market for a Quarterback. If they miss out on all three and are unable to move up in the draft they could buy low on Wilson. Although a competition between Zach Wilson and Desmond Ridder is less than thrilling.
Note : Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders and New England Patriots are more likely to draft a quarterback than trade for Wilson.
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