You know how it is. The NFL has 32 teams and fewer than 32 franchise-caliber quarterbacks. As a result, each and every offseason, we’re left wondering who those unlucky teams might chase in attempts to find new franchise leaders.
This year, you’d have to think that at least six teams — the Bills, Jets, Texans, Titans, Bears and Buccaneers — will be in the hunt for new quarterbacks, with five more teams — the Browns, Eagles, Redskins, Cardinals and Rams — also possibly surveying the free-agent market, the trade market and the draft.
The quarterbacks up for grabs? Former first-round picks coming off stints with their second NFL teams named Jay Cutler and Mark Sanchez, as well as another former first-rounder in Jake Locker, talented Texans backup Ryan Mallett and the draft’s highest-rated pivot, Marcus Mariota.
But one guy who also might be up for grabs is a former No. 1 overall pick, because it wouldn’t be surprising if the Rams were to cut ties with the expensive and injury-prone Sam Bradford.
Bleacher Report’s Jason Cole reported on Monday that some teams with high draft picks might prefer trading for or signing Bradford over the risk that comes with taking Mariota or another high-profile prospect like Jameis Winston early on April 30.
Makes sense, especially when you consider how rarely early draft picks have paid off in recent years. It’s a 50/50 proposition at best, and at least Bradford has shown glimpses of being a strong quarterback when healthy. Maybe a fresh start would be just what the doctor ordered.
So, which teams make the most sense?
Tampa Bay: The Bucs already have two strong receivers in Mike Evans and Vincent Jackson as well as a decent offensive line and some strong pieces on defense. Tampa could gamble on Bradford and trade the No. 1 overall pick for a king’s ransom in order to open up a window for success in the next three or four years.
Chicago: The window remains somewhat open for the Bears, who have arguably the best 1-2 receiver duo in the NFL, a great tight end and a strong offensive line. A talented quarterback could get hot and lead this team deep into the playoffs right now.
Buffalo: The Bills are stacked on defense and have a bunch of support on offense. Problem is they lack a first-round pick. That probably removes them from the Mariota/Winston conversation, but Bradford would be a good consolation prize for a team ready to win.
New York Jets: Really a very similar situation to the one Buffalo is in. The Jets have a ton of talent on defense and could compete with a disciplined leader under center. They also have plenty of cap space in order to go out and get Bradford some receivers, and they can also leverage the No. 6 overall pick.
