The quarterback trade market may not be done making noise, even with the season already underway.
That’s the sense coming out of ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano, who see Week 4 as a point where more movement could start to take shape. Injuries, losing streaks and the simple reality of teams realizing they need a different answer under center can all push front offices toward the phone.
Mac Jones sits near the top of the list of possible names. ESPN’s report says the San Francisco 49ers have every reason to hold onto him, especially with Brock Purdy’s injury history in the picture. Still, Fowler and Graziano are leaving the door open if the right team becomes desperate enough.
"The 49ers have said they aren't interested in dealing him, and I believe it would take a lot to change their minds. But if someone gets desperate enough, who knows?" Graziano notes.
Anthony Richardson is another quarterback worth watching. The Indianapolis Colts do not sound ready to move him now, but that could shift later in the season, especially as he gets closer to the end of his rookie contract. ESPN’s read is that even a late-round pick could eventually be enough to make the Colts think seriously about it.
"I still wonder if someone will throw a late-round pick at the Colts for a chance to salvage his talent," Graziano says.
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett also enters the conversation if the team decides rookie Carson Beck needs to get on the field. If that happens, Brissett could become a valuable trade piece. Veteran Gardner Minshew could be part of that market too, giving clubs another experienced option if quarterback demand really heats up.
"A lot of these situations are going to change drastically by midseason. Jacoby Brissett could struggle and prompt the Cardinals to want to see third-round rookie Carson Beck, which could lead to Brissett or veteran backup Gardner Minshew II being dealt," Graziano says.
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