We’re now in week 7 of the Premier Madden League Inaugural season, and that means we’re one week away from the daunting trade deadline. With teams jockeying for position to improve their rosters for the final half of the season, while others look to get what they can from players on expiring deals, we here from Gaming While Black Media wanted to hit you all with a list of the players MOST LIKELY to be moved ahead of the week 8 headline.
#5 – Chase Claypool, Wr – Chicago Bears: In the final year of his Rookie contract, the young wideout that was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers finds himself in a situation in Chicago that could be untenable for him to remain on the roster past this season. In past cycles Claypool has found himself more useful as a TE, but with Chicago opting NOT to make that transition with him, I’m sure many teams looking for an impact player at the position could be chomping at the bit. 3rd on the depth chart behind David Moore and Darnell Mooney, it is likely that Claypool may be moved for assets ahead of next week’s deadline.
#4 – Christian Wilkins, DT – Miami Dolphins: With a premium being placed on the trenches this cycle, Miami may find themselves strapped for cash going into next season, with big decisions that need to be made with their offensive line. In such circumstances someone has to be the odd man out, and considering the haul they could potentially receive, Miami may be looking to deal their all pro DT. Although they may choose to lock up Wilkins and let some key interior Lineman on offense walk, don’t be surprised if you see Wilkins shipped out for a return in assests instead.
3 – Mike Evans, Wr – Tampa Bay Buccaneers: With decisions to be made at key positions on both sides of the ball this offseason, the cash strapped Buccs may need to make an unpopular choice to move on from the perennial all pro wideout. If the decision is made to keep the core of their defense intact, there may not be enough money left to satisfy Evans, which could mean the Buccs decide to cash out now and recoup what they can before seeing him walk in the offseason. There are teams who have the need and are willing to pay for a big game top dawg that punishes defenses on the outside.
#2 – Chris Jones, DT – Kansas City Chiefs: In a perfect world, talent that is all world like Chris Jones is never thought of as a player you don’t do everything in your power to keep. Unfortunately the world of PML is anything but perfect. The Chiefs can choose to keep the game wrecker but that would mean sacrificing their ability to acquire skilled talent, on either side of the ball via trade or free agency going forward. At his age, at the apex of his development, if there was a time to secure a haul for Jones, now would be it. We have reports that many teams have made inquiries concerning the Chiefs asking price, don’t be alarmed if news of a deal breaks soon.
#1 Tyron Smith, LT – Dallas Cowboys: What y’all thought? Of course the number 1 most likely piece to me moved before the deadline is the 9 time all pro, 8 time pro bowl, currently listed #2 best quarterback blind side protector in the game. With a move that created a stir among league executives, the Cowboys signaled the departure of the future hall of famer when they decided to pay a 100 content point fine to bring Smith off the daunted No Trade List. With deals already submitted and in the works, there’s no doubt the Cowboys are cutting their loses and getting what they are owed before losing Smith to free agency.
