This season, the Jaguars might deal wide receiver Christian Kirk to the Ravens for $72 million. When the deadline approaches, there will be other prominent trade targets than Davante Adams. Anyone should not be surprised that the Jaguars, who are on the cusp of a 0–5 season, would trade Kirk. There will be many casualties, raising concerns about general manager Trent Baalke and head coach Doug Pederson’s job security.
Despite the fact that they extended quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who still has a lot of potential, no one should expect them back if they are unable to secure a single victory. The Jaguars want to hold onto some of their key players, but this might force them to radically rework their offensive scheme. If they wish to change the roster’s culture and give it a new look, that is not feasible. Kirk might be willing to go on to a championship squad that needs assistance because his patience may be wearing thin.
The Chiefs may be healthy after losing Rashee Rice and Marquise Brown in the same season, according to one source. That might be the case, but the Ravens have the ability to take them away from the reigning champions. Given that they are likely just one player away from contending for the Super Bowl, they may still need to address the wide receiver position. In more than two seasons, Kirk has 151 receptions for over 2,000 yards and 11 touchdowns.
He wouldn’t have to put up huge numbers to have an influence on a group full of talented players. Adams would be better off joining a team that lacks a receiver who can establish a full-time position. That leaves players like Diontae Johnson and DeAndre Hopkins, who could be able to greatly improve any team.
Is Trading $72 Million Receiver Christian Kirk to the Ravens a Better Fit for Firesale Jaguars?
The Ravens may take advantage of this to gain the upper hand on Kansas City. Both clubs need to move quickly because this season’s AFC Championship game will probably come down to the Chiefs and Ravens. The Chiefs’ receiver corps and running back dilemma already put them at a disadvantage. Even though they are 4-0, if they don’t make any roster changes this month, that might all change quickly.
The Ravens, meanwhile, appear to be a formidable squad that is improving every week. While Nelson Agholor and Rashod Bateman continue to struggle with regularity, Zay Flowers is stepping up his game. Kirk might have an instant impact for Baltimore in the closing stages, and they don’t have as many injuries as Kansas City does. Kirk might be essential without hurting the Ravens’ cap room since adding a talented receiver could push them to the Super Bowl.
Other Potential Trade Destinations
Saints of New Orleans
The Saints could be a serious contender for the playoffs with just one wide receiver trade. They most likely won’t add a standout wide receiver, just someone who can split time as a ball-catcher. It’s too evident that they will buy A.T. Perry and use the proceeds to support Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed. Although Davante Adams may be Derek Carr’s top choice, Kirk can still make a name for himself and help this club go to the postseason.
Chargers of Los Angeles
The run game concept that Jim Harbaugh fostered in this club has been negatively impacted by offensive line injuries. It’s important for Harbaugh to realize that Justin Herbert can only succeed when he plays football, and he won’t be able to accomplish that. Joshua Palmer and Quentin Johnston appear to be short-term options who might also be traded. A team searching for a reliable receiver other than youngster Ladd McConkey would find that adding someone like Kirk becomes an obvious trade choice.
Panthers of Carolina
The Panthers, who preferred Andy Dalton to Bryce Young, have a passable offensive. Given that Dalton is a bridge quarterback and nobody should be expecting much from him, there might be a new regime change. The future lies in Xavier Legette, but while Adam Thielen is on IR, they need a fresh weapon. By week nine, Diontae Johnson will most likely be gone.
This creates a gap that weapons can fill to resurrect their victims. The offensive line isn’t getting any younger because the Panthers haven’t seen what Jonathan Mingo has to prove yet. Kirk is a potential replacement for Thielen, younger and more capable, therefore Carolina should take a chance on him.
