5 NBA Trades that Should Happen

I'll start by saying that none of these trades are rumored. Don't read this and think that they will happen or even be considered. These are simply bold, blockbuster trades that would change the NBA landscape and are fun to think about. Plus, I'd consider these moves if I were a GM and felt led to change it up. Let's take a look:


5 Bold, Blockbuster NBA Trades


NOTE: These trades don't list the full details of the entire transaction, just the core pieces. In nearly every deal below, players, trade exceptions, and even picks would have to be thrown in for value and salary purposes.


Trade 1: New York Deals #4


Minnesota Receives: No. 4 Pick


New York Receives: Ricky Rubio and Nikola Pekovic


While Minny may have to take on Jose Calderon to make this work, the key for them would be landing the #4 pick in the draft. Remember, they also possess the #1 pick, so this would give them a potential trio of Towns (or Okafor), Mudiay (or Russell), and Wiggins to build around. They also have young talent in LaVine, Bennett, Muhammed, etc. This team would suddenly possess the most young talent in the NBA. Parting with Rubio and Pekovic also gives them a lot more cap space so they can make a run at a young stud in free agency such as Leonard, Jordan, or Monroe.


For New York, this trade would accelerate their rebuild by giving them two players that can make an impact immediately. And these moves wouldn't keep them from attacking free agency with vigor either. This comes down to if they want to take time to develop the player taken at #4, or if they truly want players to help them win right now.


Trade 2: LA Lands a Stud


Los Angeles Receives: Derrick Rose


Chicago Receives: No. 2 Pick, Eric Bledsoe or Brandon Knight, Nick Young


Phoenix Receives: Joakim Noah, Jordan Clarkson


Why would Chicago do this? For me, they can't base their entire future on the health of Derrick Rose. Despite the immense talent in Chicago, they haven't taken advantage because their "best player" has been injured during the playoffs or beforehand hurting team chemistry (like this season). Also, Noah has become a liability on offense at times, which killed them against Cleveland a couple weeks ago. By dealing those two, they can land Okafor in the draft to replace Noah, Bledsoe or Knight (in a sign-and-trade) to replace Rose, and they add a wing scorer in Young to fill in for Dunleavy who is a free agent (or be a 6th man off the bench). These moves make them younger and much more dangerous offensively. These moves would be in addition to locking up Butler long-term this offseason, and they would still possess pick #22. Who knows, by dealing Rose they could even ask for more.


For LA this move is easy. Pairing Rose with Kobe is too enticing to pass up. This would make them instant contenders, and it would give free agents even more reason to sign with LA this offseason. Why wouldn't Love want to go play close to home alongside Rose and Kobe? Or why wouldn't Marc Gasol want to go play in a place that turned his brother into a champion and play with those two? This also ensures them a superstar when Kobe retires in a year. The only downside is that Julius Randle may also have to be involved in this deal in some capacity.


This decision for Phoenix is all about playing style. After repeatedly failing to earn a playoff spot playing with two point guards, are they finally ready to move on from that strategy and play legitimately? Noah would vastly improve their defense, give them a veteran leader that still plays at a high level, and provide them with the best big man they've had in years. Clarkson is also a very intriguing player that has been actually solid for LA, and would allow them to still have another good point guard alongside whoever they choose to keep (Bledsoe or Knight). Final details could include another piece also.


Trade 3: OKC Officially Becomes Durant's Team


Oklahoma City Receives: Victor Oladipo, Reggie Jackson, Channing Frye


Orlando Receives: Russell Westbrook


Detroit Receives: Elfrid Payton


Over the last few years, the best I ever saw OKC play was in the 2013-14 season when Westbrook was injured. At that point, the team was Durant's and he truly flourished for the first time in his career (en route to his only MVP season). In my opinion, Westbrook holds Durant and the team back. He's a ballhog, scoring first point guard. Those guys don't win championships. The last time a team with a true score-first point guard won a championship was in the 80's with Isaiah Thomas. Plus I think Durant is on pace to leave next season unless something changes. This move brings back Reggie Jackson in a sign-and-trade (who was the point guard when Westbrook was injured that season) and gives Durant a rising star sidekick in Oladipo (whom I love). Frye also stretches the floor as a shooting big. If they re-sign Kanter this offseason, this is a team that can win a championship very soon.


Orlando has said recently they want to speed up their recovery to relevancy. Westbrook would do that. This deal would allow them to get a superstar, keep their pick at #5, and pair him with Vucevic who is an emerging stud. Orlando was a contender many years ago with a star and a team built around him (Howard), so they can do that again with Westbrook.


This is fairly simple for Detroit as they are surely going to lose Reggie Jackson in free agency. By agreeing to a sign-and-trade, they can replace him with Payton, who could turn out to be a star after a strong rookie campaign. Better get something than nothing.


Trade 4: Each Team gets a Redo


Charlotte Receives: Joe Johnson, Mason Plumlee


Brooklyn Receives: Lance Stephenson, Marvin Williams, Gerald Henderson, Noah Vonleh


Brooklyn has said publically they would love to deal their big money players (Deron, Joe, Brook), but they haven't found a suitor. Charlotte signed Lance Stephenson after a career year in Indy, but it was a disaster and they are looking to trade him. So this works for both teams.


Brooklyn gets a number of contributors here, including two younger players with upside in Vonleh and Stephenson. They shed the massive salary of Joe Johnson in the process, and can start looking at the future.


Charlotte importantly gets a shooter in this deal, something they desperately need. Plumlee gives them another power forward inside to split time with Zeller. Both players would help Charlotte improve immediately, potentially enough to get into the playoffs.


Trade 5: Denver Gets a Star Again


Denver Receives: No. 20 Pick, DeMar DeRozan


Toronto Receives: No. 7 Pick, Wilson Chandler, Randy Foye


Denver continues to idle in the same position year after year. By acquiring DeRozan, they finally land a true scorer on the perimeter and a star to go to in crunch time. This also unclutters their roster a bit. A lineup of Lawson, DeRozan, Gallinari, Faried, and Nurkic is actually very formidable. In the deal, they may or may not get the 20th pick in return, which means they could still pick in the first round despite parting with #7.


As we saw in the Eastern Conference Playoffs, Toronto doesn't have enough as constructed to be a true contender. Losing DeRozan hurts, but they can land a stud at #7 that can likely contribute quickly. Chandler and Foye will both help instantly as well. This also gives the Raptors a lot more depth, and it may free up money now and in the future to spend on free agents. This deal becomes even better if they figure out how to make the deal happen without trading their pick at #20.


By: The Sports Guys

NFC South Offseason Grades

With the bulk of free agency and the entire NFL Draft officially behind us, it’s time to look at how each team did in the offseason. Did they get better? Worse? What grade did each team receive? All those questions, and more, answered here. We’ll move through one division at a time finishing today with the NFC South:

Atlanta Falcons

Free Agency Grade: B

The Falcons made some sound moves, bringing back some players and adding a bunch of role players. That list includes Clayborn, Durant, Godfrey, Moeaki, Schofield, Tamme, Adams, Reed, Hankerson, etc. They didn’t sign any truly elite player, but they are slowly remaking the roster with the new staff. Two of the players mentioned were from Seattle, coming over with the new head coach.

NFL Draft Grade: A+

This is where Atlanta truly impressed me. As it’s been said by other members of the media, they basically got three first round picks in the draft. Vic Beasley will be a top edge rusher, Jalen Collins could be a great, physical corner for Dan Quinn, and Tevin Coleman may be their workhorse as early as this season. I also loved how they nabbed Grady Jarrett late in the draft, and Justin Hardy is also a promising prospect at wide receiver.

Overall Grade: A

Dan Quinn was the coach on the market that I thought was the real prize out there. So when you combine their player additions and their coaching hires, it adds up to a great offseason. Due to all this, the Falcons may be the division favorite once again.

Carolina Panthers

Free Agency Grade: C-

Carolina didn’t have a strong free agent period. They officially lost Greg Hardy when he signed with Dallas. They failed to upgrade the offensive line and wide receiving corps, and really didn’t make any moves to make them better. The basically signed scrubs that other teams didn’t want anymore (Boykin, Ginn Jr., Martin, Oher, Tillman, Todman, etc.). Those moves won’t help at all.

NFL Draft Grade: D

Shaq Thompson is very versatile and is an intriguing prospect. But what role will he play on Carolina, and why did they take him in the first round when he surely would have been available in the second? Devin Funchess is also promising, but massively trading up to nab him in the mid second wasn’t ideal and hurt them moving forward. With Olsen and Benjamin already on the field, what does Funchess bring them anyways? I did think Cameron Artis-Payne was a decent pick, but that’s about it. Only having a five player draft class also hurts them.

Overall Grade: D+

Carolina failed to improve, and likely got passed up by other teams in the NFC, including at least one in their division (Falcons). I still think they need a better unit on offense surrounding Cam Newton, at nearly every position. They could always prove me wrong though.

New Orleans Saints

Free Agency Grade: B+

Do I love the fact they traded away their best offensive weapon in Jimmy Graham? Not really. But in doing so they got a first round pick and the best center in the league (Max Unger). They also picked up a draft pick by trading 31-year-old Ben Grubbs, an overpaid player they were debating on cutting. There was also the Kenny stills trade, which in my opinion was nearly thievery. They picked up a third round pick and a young emerging stud in Ellerbe was great value for a limited route runner in Stills. They also added Browner at corner (totally underrated), Anthony Spencer, Kyle Wilson, and CJ Spiller. All will have roles. They did a good job re-signing some of their own as well.

NFL Draft Grade: B+

While I don’t think they made out like bandits with their duel first round picks, Peat and Anthony both possess a ton of upside and fill positions of need. Kikaha is an intriguing edge rusher, and they may have selected their QB of the future in Garrett Grayson. PJ Williams as a third round pick may have been their best pick though, as he was a total steal.

Overall Grade: B+

I actually worry a little about their offense, which sounds crazy… Brees looked to slow down last year, they lost many of his key pass catchers, and their offensive line is filled with new additions and some young players. With that said, there is a ton of talent that remain and this offseason sets them up well for the future.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Free Agency Grade: C

They did bring in some decent talent, but they gave up some players too. Don’t know at this point if they were positive or negative swaps. They added George Johnson, Bruce Carter, Chris Conte, and Henry Melton (among others). They lost Adrian Clayborn, Anthony Collins, Michael Johnson, and Mason Foster (among others). See what I mean?

NFL Draft Grade: B

We all know about Jameis Winston, a pick that I loved and agreed with. He is exactly what they needed and will set up their franchise to have success over the next decade. I liked their thought process with their two second round picks, when they took back to back offensive linemen to protect their young QB. They added two wide receivers as well later on in the draft. On the flip side, they didn’t get great value with many of them, especially with some of the talent that was available. The best value they got was Kwon Alexander, an outside linebacker they selected in the fourth round. He could be a good one.

Overall Grade: B-

I don’t see a ton of improvement across the board, but by adding Winston at the most important position in football, there is now hope. That gives them an above average grade.

By: The Sports Guys

AFC South Offseason Grades

With the bulk of free agency and the entire NFL Draft officially behind us, it’s time to look at how each team did in the offseason. Did they get better? Worse? What grade did each team receive? All those questions, and more, answered here. We’ll move through one division at a time continuing today with the AFC South:

 

Houston Texans

 

Free Agency Grade: B+

 

Everyone will look at what Houston did in free agency and question their decision to part with Andre Johnson. I won’t. He’s too old to pay big money to for a team without a stud QB. It made sense going younger with Cecil Shorts III and a draft pick (Strong). Their secondary looks better now with the addition of Rahim Moore, and it was smart to re-sign Kareem Jackson. Vince Wilfork could be a short-term difference maker after signing him, but it did hurt a little losing Brooks Reed, who is underrated as a player. Bringing in Hoyer to compete with Mallett was another sound move.

 

NFL Draft Grade: A

 

The Texans added three players that I thought could be first round picks. Kevin Johnson and Benardrick McKinney will likely start immediately for the defense, and Jaelon Strong could also start at WR on offense. They hit on needs and got great value on most of their picks.

 

Overall Grade: A-

 

The team improved in nearly all areas, and could take a major step forward this year if they get consistent quarterback play. Their defense could be even more dynamic this season if Clowney stays healthy and produces as a top prospect should. Are they a threat to the Colts? Probably not, but they can be soon with a better signal caller.

 

 

Indianapolis Colts

 

Free Agency Grade: A

 

The Colts are clearly going all-in to win a Super Bowl and build a better team around Andrew Luck. On offense they parted with inconsistent Hakeem Nicks and Trent Williams, and brought in veterans Frank Gore and Andre Johnson. Both will make an impact. Todd Herremans will also help the offensive line immediately. On defense, they added contributors as well who have played well for other teams. These included Trent Cole, Dwight Lowery, Nate Irving, and Kendall Langford. While there will be plenty of discussion moving forward on who to keep and release, they are ready to win this season in a big way.

 

NFL Draft Grade: D

 

No offensive linemen until the seventh round… No safeties drafted at all… No big guys up front on defense until the fifth round… What is going on? When it was their turn to pick in the first round, it was shocking that Malcom Brown and Landon Collins were still available. Both would make an instant impact and likely start and improve the defensive in Week 1. But they passed and took a wide receiver… Why? Outside of quarterback, that was the strongest position by far on their team. Although I like Dorsett, he won’t play much. Hilton, Moncrief, Johnson, Carter, Fleener, Allen… why did they pick another pass catcher? Only reason this grade wasn’t a failing grade was due to Henry Anderson, who I thought was a solid choice at the end of the third.

 

Overall Grade: B

 

Despite a shockingly bad draft, they still improved as a team due to free agency and will have a chance to win it all this year. It will come down to defense, which has to improve at stopping the run. Those Patriots and Broncos will be tough opponents in the AFC once again.

 

 

Jacksonville Jaguars

 

Free Agency Grade: A-

 

The Jaguars had cap space and made some good signings with it. Jared Odrick will make a big impact right away. Re-signing Alualu was smart as well. Bringing in Julius Thomas was a massive deal for that offense too, especially since they had to support their young QB better.

 

NFL Draft Grade: A

 

I loved what the Jags did on draft night too. Fowler wasn’t the best player available at #3 but he was the best edge rusher. Yeldon gives them something different than Denard Robinson at RB, so that was smart. A.J. Cann is a solid guard and Rashad Greene is an intriguing receiver. Both could make an impact this season on offense. I thought James Sample and Michael Bennett were both steals for their defense also. All were solid selections.

 

Overall Grade: A-

 

Would have been a straight 'A' grade here had Dante Fowler not already tore his ACL. That’s a tough break for a young team trying to improve. But they added a lot of good pieces in both free agency and the draft. They are still in a healthy place in terms of cap space too. It will now come down to developing that talent, particularly Bortles at QB.

 

 

Tennessee Titans

 

Free Agency Grade: A-

 

I know Tennessee didn’t bring in any superstar, but they were productive during free agency. They re-signed every top guy from their own team, really only parting with a struggling Michael Oher and an aging Nate Washington. Brian Orakpo was their best signing, a guy that’s an elite pass rusher when healthy. I thought Da’Norris Searcy was a good fit for them too. Depth signings included Bell, Cox, Douglas, and Fasano.

 

NFL Draft Grade: B

 

There was some good and bad with their draft. First, I have mixed opinions about them drafting Mariota. They could have traded the pick and gotten a ton from somebody, a move I likely would have made if I were running the team. At the same time, there is now optimism surrounding their quarterback situation for the first time in a while, and Mariota could be very good down the road. What I loved most about their draft however was the two wide receivers they drafted: Dorial Green-Beckham was my second highest rated wideout in the draft, and Tre McBride was one of my favorite sleepers (drafted in 7^th round). Both could be great weapons for Mariota through the years.

 

Overall Grade: B

 

Did they do enough to challenge for the playoffs… No. But they are improving and the playoffs could be within reach in the next couple of years. For Tennessee fans, that’s a long time to wait but it’s at least within sight now, which it wasn't before.

 

 

By: The Sports Guys

NFC North Offseason Grades

With the bulk of free agency and the entire NFL Draft officially behind us, it’s time to look at how each team did in the offseason. Did they get better? Worse? What grade did each team receive? All those questions, and more, answered here. We’ll move through one division at a time continuing today with the NFC North:

 

Chicago Bears

 

Free Agency Grade: A

 

New GM Ryan Pace killed it in free agency. Without going after the top-of-the-line guys (Suh, Revis, McCourty, etc.), he improved the team tremendously, particularly on defense. All of the signings came cheap, and many of them are low risk, one-year deals. McPhee is the centerpiece, but Rolle, Acho, McDonald, Jenkins, Foster, and Ball will all help on defense this year. Royal was a smart signing as well, and adding Montgomery, Gafford, and Ducasse gives them flexibility on offense. Parting with Marshall (trade) and others (left as free agents) were smart decisions made by the new regime.

 

NFL Draft Grade: B+

 

While there are parts of the draft I loved, I’m not rating it as highly as the media. I have questions about Kevin White, despite the upside, and taking four offensive players out of their six picks was questionable considering the defense last year. However, White, Grasu, and Langford could be a big part of the Bears future, and Goldman and Amos could start this year. So it was pretty good despite the questions.

 

Overall Grade: A

 

The team definitely improved, and there is suddenly young talent and optimism in Chicago. I loved the hires of Pace, Fox, Fangio, Gase, and all the other coaching additions. They were solid in free agency and the draft, although Jay Cutler and his contract are still an issue moving forward. This was about as good of an offseason as possible however.

 

 

Detroit Lions

 

Free Agency Grade: D

 

Remember that ferocious defensive line last year? Well, Suh, Johnson, Mosley, and Fairley are now gone. That’s brutal. That did trade for Ngata, but he was somewhat expensive to trade for considering his age. They clearly got worse through free agency.

 

NFL Draft Grade: B

 

The draft was definitely better than free agency. In the first round they added two offensive linemen (Tomlinson via selection, Ramirez via trade). Those two will help tremendously. Ameer Abdullah is another impact selection, and I also loved Alex Carter for them in the third round. But in going with those players, they failed to add an impact defensive lineman.

 

Overall Grade: C-

 

While I didn’t love their moves, they remain a good team based on the trio of Stafford, Megatron, and Tate. They will put up points if they stay healthy. But the defense will take a step back this season, so they better score a lot.

 

 

Green Bay Packers

 

Free Agency Grade: B+

 

The Packers made some tough cuts to save money, but it paid off as they kept their top free agents. Cobb and Bulaga in particular were big re-signed players. It hurt losing Tramon Williams, but with his age he wasn’t worth the money he wanted.

 

NFL Draft Grade: B

 

It was a typical Packers draft as it clearly had positives. The Randall/Rollins picks early will be key, as they need immediate production in the secondary. All the other picks were for depth, and it will be interesting to see how they groom Brett Hundley.

 

Overall Grade: B

 

They made sound moves, but didn’t have anything groundbreaking happen. That’s probably a good thing though as they were a late collapse away from the Super Bowl last season. I personally have them as my top NFC team entering the season.

 

 

Minnesota Vikings

 

Free Agency Grade: B-

 

The Vikings had a very quiet offseason from a signing perspective. They didn’t go out and sign a bunch of impact guys (or even one), but they didn’t lose anyone of significance either. Sure role players came and went, but nobody noteworthy. What moved them into the B range though was their trade for Mike Wallace, a player that is overpaid but will give them a needed deep threat for their young QB Bridgewater.

 

NFL Draft Grade: A

 

They got some major impact players in the draft. Trae Waynes will be an instant starter as many believe he was the top corner in the draft. CB is a key spot in the NFC North too. I thought Kendricks was the best inside LB in the draft, and I think he could be a starter immediately as well. I also loved their selection of T.J. Clemmings, a guy they snagged in the fourth but his talent equals a first round selection. Could be the steal of the draft if he’s healthy. Danielle Hunter and Stefon Diggs are wildcards here and could actually make a difference down the road too.

 

Overall Grade: B+

 

I think they did well overall by making the roster deeper, and filled with young talent. They know they have a future star in Teddy Bridgewater, so bringing in young guys to grow with him was important. They did that.

 

 

By: The Sports Guys

AFC North Draft Grades

With the bulk of free agency and the entire NFL Draft officially behind us, it’s time to look at how each team did in the offseason. Did they get better? Worse? What grade did each team receive? All those questions, and more, answered here. We’ll move through one division at a time continuing today with the AFC North:

 

Baltimore Ravens

 

Free Agency Grade: D

 

Baltimore lost key players and made no impact signings. Gone is Pernell McPhee. Gone is Torrey Smith. Gone is Owen Daniels. To replace them they brought in… nobody. So why did I not give them an F? They re-signed Forsett for a bargain price and traded Ngata, whom they were thinking of cutting, for two mid-round picks. Neither of those moves include adding new impact players however.

 

NFL Draft Grade: B

 

You see all the names I mentioned above? The Ravens tried to replace them via the draft. Breshad Perriman replaced Smith. Maxx Williams replaced Daniels. Carl Davis is the new tackle up front replacing Ngata. And Za’Darius Smith is the new edge guy to replace McPhee. All could be impact players, but maybe not right away.

 

Overall Grade: C

 

While free agency was awful, the draft filled in the gaps. My bet is that they remain about the same this season as they were a year ago. In the mix but not an elite team. This is likely a team that will miss the playoffs once again. However, all that new talent could equal good things over the next few years.

 

 

Cincinnati Bengals

 

Free Agency Grade: B

 

Big names were added in free agency, but who knows if production will follow. Those players are Denarius Moore, A.J. Hawk, and Michael Johnson. All could make immediate impacts and get some major playing time. All three could flop too. I was a fan of their extension of Rey Maualuga, but losing Taylor Mays could hurt depth in the secondary.

 

NFL Draft Grade: B+

 

While taking tackles (Ogbuehi and Fisher) in the first two rounds is somewhat baffling, it’s also somewhat intriguing. Both are terrific prospects that could transform their offensive line in the years to come. If you put aside character issues, they also got two steals when they took Paul Dawson and Josh Shaw in the middle rounds. I’ve been told to also keep an eye on Mario Alford also, who some believe could be a major playmaker.

 

Overall Grade: A-

 

I thought the team did a good job adding quality and depth on both sides of the ball. If the newcomers can all make an impact, this is a team that could be back on top of the AFC North at the end of the season. It will be a battle though, as this division is always tough.

 

 

Cleveland Browns

 

Free Agency Grade: B

 

There were a lot of good moves made in Cleveland this offseason. Signing Tramon Williams was one of them. He’ll be great opposite Joe Haden, and he allowed the team to let Skrine walk. Adding Bowe, Hartline, and Housler was key, as they lost Cameron and Austin. It was also important for them adding Josh McCown, a veteran QB to compete (or start over) Manziel. These moves helped improve the team.

 

NFL Draft Grade: A

 

What helped even more however was the draft. Danny Shelton and Cameron Erving are studs and will help transform the trenches on offense and defense. Nate Orchard, Duke Johnson, and Xavier Cooper will all make an impact, potentially this season. Ibraheim Campbell is a player to watch at safety, and they also got one of the steals of the draft when they selected Ifo Ekpre-Olomu in the seventh round. Overall, I loved this draft.

 

Overall Grade: A-

 

Along with the moves above, I thought it was great for the franchise that Johnny Manziel completed some rehab to deal with the off-the-field stuff. I still believe he could be a solid QB, even if the world doesn’t. But the team is also set up well to succeed without a world-beater at quarterback. That’s important in case I am wrong.

 

 

Pittsburgh Steelers

 

Free Agency Grade: C

 

Pittsburgh sat back in free agency and simply tried to re-sign their guys. They succeeded bringing back most of them, but Jason Worilds shockingly retired. That hurt. DeAngelo Williams was one sneaky good signing they had, especially with Bell out the first few games.

 

NFL Draft Grade: A

 

While some are down on the Steelers’ draft, I am a huge fan. Bud Dupree has the makings of a stud, and I thought he’d go higher than 22 on draft day. He replaces Worilds perfectly. Senquez Golson is another promising player, and a needed one in the secondary (along with Doran Grant). Sammy Coates is a freak athletically, which is why I loved that selection in the third round. He could be the WR that Wheaton never has developed into. But their selection of Gerod Holliman in the seventh round could have been their best. He led the country in interceptions last season, and I thought he’d be selected in the third round or so. Great draft with a lot of promising players.

 

Overall Grade: B-

 

Despite the solid draft, I still can’t grade their offseason any higher than this. They did nothing in free agency and many of the drafted players need developmental time. There was also the suspension of LeVeon Bell for three games, and that will be very costly to start the season. Still, this is still a contender in the division.

 

 

By: The Sports Guys

NFC West Offseason Grades

With the bulk of free agency and the entire NFL Draft officially behind us, it’s time to look at how each team did in the offseason. Did they get better? Worse? What grade did each team receive? All those questions, and more, answered here. We’ll move through one division at a time continuing today with the NFC West:

 

Arizona Cardinals

 

Free Agency Grade: C+

 

Arizona made one great signing in the offseason nabbing Mike Iupati. The other additions though were players that were left for dead by other teams. Alfonzo Dennard and LaMarr Woodley were cut by their previous employers, and Cory Redding, Sean Weatherspoon, and Corey Peters weren’t pursued much by their old teams. If that constitutes the best moves they made, that’s not that great. This hurts more considering they lost Cromartie, Acho, Dockett, and Williams. I felt as if they didn’t improve at all throughout free agency.

 

NFL Draft Grade: C+

 

It was smart to add another lineman in round 1, especially one with the upside of D.J. Humphries. That did come at the expense of passing up Malcom Brown, a guy I thought would have been an instant starter for the team. Other picks I liked were Markus Golden, David Johnson, and Rodney Gunter. None will be massively impactful this year however. I questioned them passing up cornerback too.

 

Overall Grade: C+

 

In terms of personnel on the field, they did a very average job. Off the field wasn’t great either as they lost Todd Bowles to New York. I think their defense will take a step back this year. The good news however is that Larry Fitzgerald will be around still for a cheaper amount, and Carson Palmer should be healthy once more this year.

 

 

San Francisco 49ers

 

Free Agency Grade: C

 

Many look to their deal with Torrey Smith as a needed move. The problem I have with it is that Smith is solely a deep threat and they paid too much for that. They also let Crabtree get away, which I think is a mistake. Losing Iupati will also hurt them moving forward. I did like them letting Gore walk so they can give the reigns to Carlos Hyde. Signing Reggie Bush made sense too. Darnell Dockett and Philip Wheeler may come in handy, although they lost McDonald, Borland, and may lose Justin Smith too. They sneakily recovered after losing Chris Culliver by signing Shareece Wright. So while they adding some pieces, they lost a lot too.

 

NFL Draft Grade: A

 

I loved what the 49ers did in the draft. They moved down two spots in the first round and still got their guy, a stud 3-4 DE in Arik Armstead. He’s a top ten talent in my opinion. They added an edge rusher later with Eli Harold, who was amazing value in the third round. I also like Jaquiski Tartt a lot, despite the value not being great where they selected him. Mike Davis and Blake Bell will add depth at their skill positions, but the real prize could be DeAndre Smelter, one of my sleepers at WR. The guy could be a stud.

 

Overall Grade: B-

 

Despite the great draft, the team still likely takes a step back after the offseason. They lost some very valuable pieces, and could lose another when Justin Smith makes his retirement decision. They also downgraded their coaching staff, as I loved Harbaugh and Fangio. I hear they are shopping Kaepernick, which is also a little surprising. Overall, I think they have been replaced by Arizona as Seattle’s biggest conference threat.

 

 

Seattle Seahawks

 

Free Agency Grade: C

 

This grade would be lower if not for one move: trading for Jimmy Graham. Sure it hurt losing a first round pick and Max Ungerer, but Graham is a pro bowl talent and gives Wilson his first legit target he’s ever had. They also re-signed Marshawn Lynch, although he’s getting up there in age and may soon by due for a drop in production. The rest of their offseason was just bad. They lost Maxwell, Schofield, Carpenter, and Smith (Super Bowl MVP). Good news is that the core is still in tact.

 

NFL Draft Grade: C

 

On paper it looks as if they didn’t acquire much talent. But remember they essentially got Jimmy Graham in the first round due to their trade. Didn’t love their second round pick Frank Clark, as he’s a major question mark for me. Could be a typical Pete Carroll pick though. Tyler Lockett is a sleeper, and could be a major factor in the passing and return game.

 

Overall Grade: C

 

They lost some pieces for sure, but they kept Lynch, added Jimmy Graham, and drafted a potential stud in Lockett. Overall I think it will all even out, and they’ll remain the class of the NFC (along with Green Bay). Will this be the year Russell Wilson is considered for MVP?

 

 

St. Louis Rams

 

Free Agency Grade: B+

 

Looking at the free agent period alone, I see mostly good and just a little bad. The little bad was the offensive line, as they cut Jake Long and haven’t yet re-signed Joe Barksdale. Later on you’ll see how they addressed that in the draft. But in terms of who they added, they got two great pieces in Akeem Ayers and Nick Fairley. Yes, the front 7 might be even better this season. Keeping Kenny Britt was key also, and I thought their trade with Philly was a home run. I prefer Foles over Bradford, plus they got better picks due to that.

 

NFL Draft Grade: B-

 

As I mentioned above, they used the draft to address the offensive line. Second/third round picks included Rob Havenstein and Jamon Brown, and they also used a fourth round pick on Andrew Donnal. That’s a lot of beef. The controversial pick was in the first round as they selected Todd Gurley at #10. This was confusing for me because Tre Mason was solid last year and Zac Stacy has been good also. I saw them taking a top WR or piece in the secondary with that pick instead. So even though I like Gurley, it came at a cost for sure. I’ll add that Sean Mannion is a QB to keep an eye on after they selected him 89^th overall.

 

Overall Grade: B

 

Will their new QB stay healthy? Are their enough weapons in place? If so, this is a team that can win due to their solid defense and emerging run game. If they young linemen gel immediately, they will punish teams on the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.

 

 

By: The Sports Guys

AFC West Offseason Grades

With the bulk of free agency and the entire NFL Draft officially behind us, it’s time to look at how each team did in the offseason. Did they get better? Worse? What grade did each team receive? All those questions, and more, answered here. We’ll move through one division at a time continuing today with the AFC West:

 

Denver Broncos

 

Free Agency Grade: D

 

Although they kept Demaryius Thomas via tag, they have yet to secure him long-term. And in committing to the tag, they failed to re-sign “Pot Roast”, Julius Thomas, Orlando Franklin, Rahim Moore, and others. Those are big pieces to the team. And although they wisely re-structured Manning’s contract, the team around him is worse than last season for sure. The only notable addition is Owen Daniels, but he is a downgrade from Julius Thomas in so many ways.

 

NFL Draft Grade: C+

 

They were aggressive early trading up for Shane Ray, a move that could pay dividends. But with Ware and Miller, why did they feel compelled to take the risk? To me, this move came at the expense of other need positions such as DT, S, and more. They did take a few intriguing offensive linemen, although they also traded one away during the draft to the Lions. Will Manning have enough protection? Those are big concerns in my opinion.

 

Overall Grade: C-

 

Keeping Manning and re-structuring him was obviously big, but the rest of the team got worse, and I believe their coaching staff is worse now than a year ago. They will still be solid this season, but I doubt they’ll improve on their performance from a year ago. I hate to see it, but Manning and the Broncos have officially wasted their shot at a Super Bowl.

 

 

Kansas City Chiefs

 

Free Agency Grade: B

 

This is a team that lost a lot of role players to other teams, the biggest loss being Rodney Hudson who signed with Oakland. But they managed to hold onto Justin Houston and they added Jeremy Maclin, which was a massive signing for them. Maclin in particular was important, as they’ve lacked production from their receivers for years in KC.

 

NFL Draft Grade: C+

 

The Chiefs started the draft well by selecting Marcus Peters in the first round. He was my highest rated corner in the draft, and a top ten talent in my opinion. After that they targeted the correct positions, just not the players I would have liked. Mitch Morse and Chris Conley could be okay, but I would have preferred other offensive linemen and receivers in those spots.

 

Overall Grade: B-

 

The team should still be pretty good considering their core is still intact. But they lost a lot of depth and there is also the situation with Eric Berry to worry about. Overall they can be somewhat satisfied, but know there is still work to be done.

 

 

Oakland Raiders

 

Free Agency Grade: B+

 

I really like what Oakland did in free agency, however with the amount of cap space they had it’s a little disappointing that they didn’t land a big fish (Suh, Cobb, Maxwell, Revis, Thomas, Hardy, etc.). With that said they improved the offensive line by adding Rodney Hudson. They added offensive playmakers with Michael Crabtree, Roy Helu, and Trent Richardson. Plus, they improved their defense with Nate Allen, Curtis Lofton, Malcolm Smith, and Dan Williams. No stars, but lots of solid players.

 

NFL Draft Grade: A-

 

They built upon their free agent signings by having another solid draft. Amari Cooper is a future superstar and a needed #1 wideout for Derek Carr. Clive Walford was another great selection in the third round and gives Carr a security blanket. I think they also added an instant starter in Mario Edwards Jr. who will play up front on defense. Depth picks made up the rest of the draft, but if any of them stand out then this draft will be a home run.

 

Overall Grade: A-

 

The Raiders are clearly a better team now than they were a couple months ago, both on the field and on the sidelines. I expect better results this season, especially if Derek Carr improves. They may be a couple years away from the playoffs still, but they are trending upwards.

 

 

San Diego Chargers

 

Free Agency Grade: B-

 

Similar to the Raiders, they had a solid but not sexy free agent period. They brought in Orlando Franklin to protect Rivers better, adding depth at corner with Patrick Robinson, and replaced Eddie Royal (Bears) with Stevie Johnson and Jacoby Jones. The big downside to the offseason came from not re-signing Phillip Rivers though, and it seems likely now that he’ll go someplace else after the season.

 

NFL Draft Grade: B+

 

They didn’t come away with a lot of players (just five), but they came away with quality ones. The big one was Melvin Gordon, who will immediately be the bellcow on offense running the football. Denzel Perryman is another solid addition, as he could potentially start in week 1 at inside linebacker. One of the keys to the draft will be if Craig Mager turns out to be the player they hope. If not, this draft won’t look as good.

 

Overall Grade: B

 

Although there are major question marks surrounding Phillip Rivers, there is a lot to like about this team now. If Gordon stays healthy, unlike their old back Ryan Mathews, this is a team that can make the playoffs in 2015.

 

 

By: The Sports Guys

NFC East Offseason Grades

With the bulk of free agency and the entire NFL Draft officially behind us, it’s time to look at how each team did in the offseason. Did they get better? Worse? What grade did each team receive? All those questions, and more, answered here. We’ll move through one division at a time continuing today with the NFC East:

 

Dallas Cowboys

 

Free Agency Grade: C-

 

Free agency was a mixed bag for Dallas. They kept Dez Bryant via franchise tag (and are working on a long-term deal) but had to let Demarco Murray walk. They also lost a bunch of linebackers, but they added Jasper Brinkley and will welcome back Sean Lee. I loved that they re-signed Doug Free, but I think losing Henry Menry will hurt. The move to add Greg Hardy could be big, but his suspension is also big and it will keep him out for over half the year. So every time they moved forward, they immediately took a step back.

 

NFL Draft Grade: B

 

I loved what Dallas did in the first two rounds. Byron Jones will help out the secondary in some way, either as a corner or safety. His athleticism will make an immediate impact. Randy Gregory could be the steal of the draft, as Dallas took him at 60^th overall. He could make up for Hardy’s suspension. The other selections seem to be depth picks, as none of the other guys will be immediate contributors.

 

Overall Grade: Incomplete

 

The reason Dallas was so successful last season was due to their rushing attack. With Murray now gone, I am waiting on them to replace him (I don’t count McFadden). They have neglected that position in both free agency and the draft, but maybe they can swing a trade for Adrian Peterson or somebody still. They need to if they want to thrive as they did a year ago.

 

 

New York Giants

 

Free Agency Grade: B-

 

New York didn’t have many big free agents signings, but they didn’t lose big time guys either. Franchising Pierre-Paul starting things off nicely, and it continued with them adding role players such as Shane Vereen and others. On the downside, nearly every Giant safety moved on, leaving a hole at that position. What they did though was resist the urge to overspend this year, which sets them up well moving forward.

 

NFL Draft Grade: A-

 

The Giants addressed needs in the draft and got good value on many of their selections. Ereck Flowers gives them better protection and a good run blocker. Landon Collins in the second round was a massive steal and fills a massive need at safety. Still can’t believe he fell into the second round. And I like Owa Odighizuwa as a contributor on the edge. Even their fifth round selection of Mykkele Thompson was solid and gives them depth at that needed safety position.

 

Overall Grade: B

 

This is a team that seemed to improve this offseason, but not by leaps and bounds like other teams. Their biggest moves were in the draft, but it may take a year to get those players adjusted. What I do expect though is that the Giants will be more of a factor this year in the NFC East after a few disappointing seasons.

 

 

Philadelphia Eagles

 

Free Agency Grade: B

 

This was a very polarizing offseason for the Eagles. I largely like what the team did, but I have my doubts as well. First, they traded Lesean McCoy for Kiko Alonso and lots of cap space. Looking back I think they won that deal, as I love Alonso and that cap space paid off. Second, they traded Nick Foles for Sam Bradford (picks were involved too). I thought it was risky based on Bradford’s injury history, but Foles has been injured too so I’ll call it a wash. Big signings included Demarco Murray, Ryan Mathews, Byron Maxwell, Walter Thurmond, and Miles Austin. However, they lost Jeremy Maclin, Trent Cole, Todd Herremans, and other role players. So while they came away on the plus side, it wasn’t totally a home run.

 

NFL Draft Grade: B

 

While they didn’t get tremendous value on their picks, they got some players I liked that could help their team immediately. I thought their first two picks were great, as Nelson Agholor and Eric Rowe could end up starting this season for them. The rest of the draft though was centered solely on pass defense (CB’s and edge guys). While that was a weakness a year ago, focusing all efforts there left them neglecting other areas of the team.

 

Overall Grade: B

 

Chip Kelly made some bold moves in his first year with team control. I think some of the moves will pay off, but others won’t. I also know that he’ll walk away upset after losing out on Mariota in the draft. But after stealing Demarco Murray from the Cowboys, they could end up winning the division based on the team’s offseason.

 

 

Washington Redskins

 

Free Agency Grade: B

 

I like what the Redskins did up front adding Terrence Knighton and Stephen Paea. Adding Chris Culliver was an underrated move as well. But losing their best edge rusher in Brian Orakpo was costly, despite his injury history. Not replacing him though was even worse.

 

NFL Draft Grade: B

 

I love what the Redskins did by addressing the offensive line. Adding Scherff was big for them as he was the best lineman in the draft. Selecting Kouandjio was another intriguing pick for me, as he possesses lots of upside. I also like Preston Smith, but more as a 3-4 DE than an OLB or “edge rusher.” Due to the fact they didn’t replace Orakpo’s production here either (just like free agency), I can’t give them a higher grade.

 

Overall Grade: B

 

It wasn’t a “sexy” offseason but more of a “meat and potatoes” one. They addressed the trenches in a big way, which is a philosophy I tend to like. And if they can still produce QB pressure despite the apparent weakness, then this offseason will be even better looking back on it. Now for solving RG3’s issues…

 

 

By: The Sports Guys

AFC East Offseason Grades

With the bulk of free agency and the entire NFL Draft officially behind us, it’s time to look at how each team did in the offseason. Did they get better? Worse? What grade did each team receive? All those questions, and more, answered here. We’ll move through one division at a time starting today with the AFC East:

 

Buffalo Bills

 

Free Agency Grade: A-

 

The Bills entered free agency with only one must-sign player from their own team in Jerry Hughes. They got that done. In addition, they added Charles Clay, Percy Harvin, and traded for Matt Cassel and Lesean McCoy. This offense is suddenly as promising as the defense. The only reason the grade isn’t an A or A+ is Cassel/Manuel is still the starting QB. That’s troublesome.

 

NFL Draft Grade: D+

 

Their draft was rough to say the least. It clearly hurt not having a first round pick (or fourth rounder), which is why they came away with so little talent. And while I love Ronald Darby as a prospect, they missed out on impact players at their largest positions of need. Passing on Bryce Petty (twice) could be costly, and I thought they could improve their offensive line more than adding John Miller, who I don’t love as a prospect.

 

Overall Grade: B

 

Despite a poor draft, the team still improved overall this offseason. Not only did they make the most of trades and free agent signings, but they also added Rex Ryan, which was big addition. They are really just one player away from being really good (QB obviously), but Rex Ryan took the Jets to the playoffs while having the same problem.

 

 

Miami Dolphins

 

Free Agency Grade: A

 

What I loved about what Miami did was they parted ways with bologna, and filled it in with filet. Gone is Jared Odrick, signed is Ndamukong Suh. Gone is Charles Clay, signed is Jordan Cameron. Gone are Gibson, Wallace, and Hartline, signed are Kenny Stills and Greg Jennings (and another from the draft). They also extended Tannehill, which is a smart move. The only complaints were a suspension to Dion Jordan (who really wasn’t going to play this year) and trading away Ellerbe. But honestly, those weren’t huge losses.

 

NFL Draft Grade: B+

 

While Miami didn’t kill it in the NFL Draft, they made some very solid selections. I loved their selection of DeVante Parker in the first round. He’ll be an instant starter and will form a great trio with Landry and Stills. Jordan Phillips was another solid selection, as he’ll be great alongside Suh up front. Jay Ajayi was a steal in the fifth round too, as he could become their workhorse in the next year or two.

 

Overall Grade: A-

 

While they may have cap issues in the near future, this team made some aggressive plays that could equal massive improvement and a playoff birth. If you are a fan of the Dolphins, you should be excited by what they did in the offseason. If Tannehill takes another step forward this year, this could be the team to finally dethrone the Patriots.

 

 

New England Patriots

 

Free Agency Grade: D

 

Wanted to give this team an F, but they did re-sign Devin McCourty, so it kept them at a D. But that was the only positive really. Gone are studs Revis and Browner (Revis to a division rival no less). Wilfork, the long time rock of the defense is gone too. Even role players such as Ayers, Ridley, and Vereen left in the offseason (Ridley to those pesky Jets also). And nobody was signed to replace these guys or fill the void at WR. It really wasn’t pretty.

 

NFL Draft Grade: C-

 

Wanted to give this team a D, but I loved their selection of Malcom Brown at the end of the first round. It may have been the biggest steal of the first round, if not the entire draft. It also filled a need with Wilfork gone. After that though, I hated what they did. I didn’t like the players, or the positions they filled. I thought they passed up quality at need positions such as CB and WR. I literally can’t tell you another pick I liked outside of maybe Tre’ Jackson.

 

Overall Grade: F

 

Not only did I hate what they did through free agency and the draft, but the punishment for “Deflategate” came out yesterday. Tom Brady is suspended for four games, and they lost draft picks over the next two years. One of those is even a first round pick in the 2016 draft. Overall, it was a brutal offseason for the defending champs. Due to this, they could lose their grip on the division, and they definitely won’t enter the postseason as the favorites again in the AFC.

 

 

New York Jets

 

Free Agency Grade: A+

 

Similar to Miami, the Jets struck gold in free agency. They struggled in the secondary last season so they went out and added Revis, Cromartie, and Skrine. They parted with Percy Harvin (who sucked and always gets injured) but added Brandon Marshall. They re-signed their best free agents (Colon and Harris), and added building blocks in the run game with Carpenter and Ridley. This team truly had a great free agency.

 

NFL Draft Grade: A-

 

While the team didn’t draft high enough to get a marquee quarterback, they added the third best QB, Bryce Petty, in the fourth round. They also added the best player in the draft, Leonard Williams, a deep threat receiver in Devin Smith, and an impact linebacker in Lorenzo Mauldin. These guys are all going to be solid in the years to come.

 

Overall Grade: A+

 

The Jets couldn’t have done better this offseason barring a trade for Andrew Luck or something ridiculous. They dominated free agency, killed it at the draft, and started a fresh regime in the front office and on the sidelines. I loved the Todd Bowles hire in particular. If Geno Smith takes a step forward or Bryce Petty is ready in year 1, this is a playoff team.

 

 

By: The Sports Guys