With the recent news that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have decided to bench quarterback Josh Freeman in favor of rookie Mike Glennon, the rumors have begun to swirl about teams that could be interested in trading for the veteran gunslinger.
One team that’s being mentioned is the Oakland Raiders. That doesn’t mean that a trade for Freeman makes sense for the silver and black, though.
First and foremost, the Raiders currently have Terrelle Pryor starting under center. While he’s still a long way from being a “franchise quarterback,” Pryor has been a pleasant surprise for Oakland this season. As long as he can bounce back from his Monday night concussion, there’s no reason to replace him as the No. 1.
Second, the Raiders already have an overpriced backup in Matt Flynn, who’s set to make $6.5 million this year. Trading for Freeman would put the Raiders on the hook for the $8.43 million he’s owed in 2013, the final year of his contract. Especially since he likely wouldn’t take over for Pryor as the starter – fans would be infuriated – Freeman isn’t worth taking on another big-money contract.
Finally, Freeman really isn’t worth trading for, even the Buccaneers were willing to part ways with him for a late-round pick. Through three games, the former first-round pick has completed 45.7 percent of his passes (33rd in the NFL) for 571 yards (30th) and a 59.3 passer rating (33rd). Seeing as he’s mustered only two touchdowns while throwing three interceptions and leading Tampa Bay to a 0-3 record, the Raiders appear to be much better off with Pryor.
I hate to admit it, but I may have been wrong about Pryor. He’s provided the Raiders offense with a spark, and has them playing competitive football. Adding Freeman to the mix would do nothing but cause unnecessary tension.
Why fix it if it isn’t broken, right?
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Gil Alcaraz IV is the Content Planner for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @GilAlcarazIV, like him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
