NFL Trade Targets 2020: One player every team should trade for this offseason
NFC South
Atlanta Falcons: Tevin Coleman, RB, 49ers
Honestly, the Falcons should have never let Tevin Coleman get away in the 2019 offseason. They should have released Devonta Freeman (who remains unsigned after getting cut this offseason) then. But that’s something they can correct here.
The 49ers have already traded Matt Breida to the Dolphins this offseason but they can still deal one more back and be alright. Most teams won’t want Jerick McKinnon, who is coming off back-to-back season-ending injuries. Coleman, however, underwhelmed during his first season with the NFC champions. As they look to cut salary for future seasons, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them move on after just one season. Another Day 3 pick should be able to bring Coleman back home.
Carolina Panthers: Kyle Rudolph, TE, Vikings
This would be one of the bigger deals on this list, as it would likely take a third-rounder to pry Kyle Rudolph loose from the Vikings — possibly even a second-rounder. Even though he doesn’t necessarily fit the Panthers’ rebuilding timeline, he’s a player at a major position of need for the team and would be a good leader for this young squad.
After losing Greg Olsen to Seattle, someone needs to fill his role. The presumed starter is 2018 fourth-rounder Ian Thomas, who has shown flashes but still hasn’t proven enough to be the full-time starter. The Vikings already have a replacement in former second-rounder Irv Smith Jr., so they could move Rudolph given the right price. If they can swing it, Carolina should bring him in.
New Orleans Saints: James Washington, WR, Steelers
Even though the Saints finally added a quality number two receiver alongside Michael Thomas in Emmanuel Sanders, they still need at least one more receiver. Tre’Quan Smith hasn’t panned out, and the team needs to develop a solid number two for the future. There are a few options for this type of deal.
However, James Washington could be the closest to realizing this potential. Although he’s been streaky during his first two seasons in the Steel City, he could be a game-breaker. He’s a fast, physical receiver who runs good routes. Those are all things Sean Payton values in his offense. It would probably take a Day 2 pick to acquire him but the Saints have never been afraid of dealing picks before. This shouldn’t stop them either.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Patrick Peterson, CB, Cardinals
The time to be bold is now. The Buccaneers have signed quarterback Tom Brady, traded for tight end Rob Gronkowski and traded up to draft right tackle Tristan Wirfs. Super Bowl LIV is being played at Raymond James Stadium, Tampa Bay’s home stadium. It’s time for a playoff berth and potential Super Bowl run.
Patrick Peterson would likely take at least a first-rounder and certainly more picks to obtain, but he’s worth it. He’s one of the NFL’s best cornerbacks and a game-breaker at his position. Bucs head coach Bruce Arians and defensive coordinator Todd Bowles have coached him before and GM Jason Licht was a part of the front office that drafted him. Tampa Bay desperately needs a playmaker in the secondary. Peterson would fill that role and more.