Every year, the league’s top decision-makers migrate to Indianapolis for the NFL combine. While it’s prime time to get to know prospects, big-picture conversations are also taking place as it represents a great opportunity for front-office members to talk in person. In this edition of NFL Gossip, I’ll take you through the three of the most important conversations team executives will be discussing including trades and contract talks. Be sure to check out my profile for more NFL offseason content.
NFL Headlines Ahead of the Combine
1. Matthew Stafford Trade
Although he’s 37, Matthew Stafford is still playing fantastic football. He gave the future Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles as much as they could handle in their divisional playoff matchup, just falling short of advancing to the NFC championship game. Stafford is set to make only $27 million in 2025, woefully below top quarterbacks making around $50 million per year.
Les Snead and the Rams’ front office seem apprehensive to give the veteran a pay bump. Earlier this week, they gave Stafford permission to discuss financial terms with other teams, with the hope that he would come back to accept his 2025 salary. In the event that he comes to a financial agreement with another team, trade compensation would need to be worked out between the two teams. The common thought around Stafford’s value would be a 2025 first-round pick or a sizable pick swap. Due to the ripple effects of a potential deal, we should soon have an end to this saga. Potential suitors include the New York Jets, New York Giants, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
2. Myles Garrett Trade
Perhaps the best defensive player in the NFL could be acquired this offseason. At 29 years old, Myles Garrett is in his prime and would provide a huge upgrade over nearly every other edge rusher. Over the last four seasons, the Browns’ prized defender has racked up 60 sacks. His individual success has greatly overshadowed the Browns’ for far too long, and Garrett has since grown frustrated, understandably. He’s ready to win now, and the Browns seem to be headed towards a rebuild.
For such a player, a trade package for Garrett would start with two first-round picks. Additional throw-ins could include a day-two pick and/or a veteran player to dump salary. This may seem like a lot, but for a future NFL Hall of Fame player at his peak, this is appropriate value. As for potential trade partners, the Washington Commanders, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the Detroit Lions could fit. Garrett would take these already strong playoff teams and turn them into contenders for Super Bowl 60.
3. Tee Higgins Contract
The gem of 2025 NFL free agency and the best receiver in the class is set to receive major interest ahead of negotiation time. Tee Higgins, the longtime WR2 for Cincinnati, has showcased WR1 potential for years but has only gotten the opportunity when running mate Ja’Marr Chase is hurt. Having a WR1 to help develop a young quarterback is essential in the league, and teams will be lining up to speak to him.
However, before that happens, the Bengals must decide whether to franchise tag him at $26.2 million. It makes sense to keep the trio of Joe Burrow, Chase, and Higgins around, but it would be extremely expensive to do so. In a long-term deal, Higgins would likely ask for around $30 million annually. While there are teams happy to pay him accordingly, Cincinnati would not be one. Although Burrow has urged the front office to bring him back, nothing seems imminent. In the event he does become available, look for the New England Patriots, Los Angeles Chargers, and Las Vegas Raiders to have heavy interest.
Honorable mentions: Deebo Samuel trade, Sam Darnold franchise tag, Travis Kelce future, Micah Parsons future, and James Cook extension.
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