Two of the best defensive backs in the game have requested to be traded. Why did this happen? What does it mean for the rest of the league? Lets take a look.
Minkah Fitzpatrick
After a horrendous 0-2 start for the Miami Dolphins, their young stud defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick requested to be traded. The Dolphins defense is the last in the league by a landslide. They have let up 90 points in the first two weeks of the season. The next worst is the New York Giants with 63 defensive points allowed. Based on the pure dismay in which the team is currently situated, it makes sense for their best defensive player to ask out.
And he got what he wished for – or did he?
According to Ian Rappoport, the full details of the trade are:
Dolphins trade away: DB Minkah Fitzpatrick, a 2020 4th round pick, and a 2021 7th round pick
Steelers trade away: 2020 1st round pick, a 2020 5th round pick, and a 2021 6th round pick
The Steelers just lost their Super Bowl winning quarterback in Ben Roethlisberger to a season ending elbow injury. Did the former Dolphins safety actually find greener pastures, or will he suffer through a disappointing season anyway.
Jalen Ramsey
Rumor has it that another defensive back has requested a trade. This time its pro bowl superstar Jalen Ramsey. Ramsey is currently situated on the Jacksonville Jaguars, who just lost their starting quarterback for most of the season, and both of their first two games. The Jaguars defense has been tough, holding Deshuan Watson and the Texans to 13 points. That isn’t enough for Ramsey as he recently said:
“I want to f—ing win. Excuse my language but s–t, everybody knows that.” (Mike Garafolo)
Some current suitors for the young corner are:
Philadelphia Eagles – this team has a defensive back field that has been lit up the first two weeks. Having a lock down corner like Ramsey could help create a more complete defense and aid their Super Bowl aspirations
Seattle Seahawks – They have all the makings to make another playoff push, as they have started the season 2-0. Adding Jadeveon Clowney to a solid defense helps, but adding one of the best corners in the league could dominate.
New England Patriots – They are the best team in the league and they just somehow got the best wide receiver for no cost, what makes them think they can’t pull a bunny out of a hat for Ramsey.
Takeaway
This trend of players in the NFL asking to be traded sounds very similar to the recent history of the NBA. Players are gaining more power as they realize they can be detrimental to their current team if they really wanted to. When does the NFL step in and do something about it, because if not, wouldn’t every semi-decent player who is on a bad team just want to be sent out? Scary times.
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