The Raiders finally have depth on the defensive line for the first time in several years. They have multiple quality EDGE rushers who can both get to the quarterback and play the run. But is it possible that they could trade one of their pass rushers for help elsewhere?
In the team’s final preseason game against the 49ers, the Raiders’ broadcast team made a quick comment that teams have called about a trade for Clelin Ferrell. They also mentioned that wide receiver John Brown could be available via trade due to their depth at receiver. While the broadcast made it clear the team wasn’t shopping either player, they weren’t turning down calls, either.
It’s not the first time this has been suggested as Bleacher Report’s Brad Gagnon wrote about a possible trade last week. Here is a snippet of what he had to say about Ferrell:
“For the Las Vegas Raiders, 2019 fourth-round pick Maxx Crosby has outperformed 2019 No. 4 overall pick, Clelin Ferrell. Crosby, big-money free-agent acquisition Yannick Ngakoue and solid complementary rusher Carl Nassib could form a solid trio on the edge for a Vegas team that just might not need Ferrell at this point.”
With the team also high on third-round pick Malcolm Koonce, it is possible that the Raiders would explore calls for Ferrell if the price was right. They would likely need another starting-caliber defensive tackle or a proven outside cornerback.
But with the Raiders spending the No. 4 pick on Ferrell during the 2019 draft, it makes more sense to just hold onto him and use him as a rotational player. He has more value backing up Crosby and Ngakoue while playing inside at defensive tackle during passing downs.
Expect the Raiders to keep Ferrell unless they are blown away by an offer over the next few days.
