This particular trade scenario is risky for the Bengals. It’s the type of move that is unlikely, as the team seldom makes aggressive moves like this.
However, imagine this scenario: The front office has selected their future franchise quarterback, Joe Burrow. The fan base is ecstatic but there is still a lot of work to do. As the draft rolls on, a player that was originally slated to go in the top 10 begins to slide down the board. Pick 19, 20, 21, 22… the phone rings and Belicheck is on the other line offering this package. Do you do it?
The Cincinnati roster has a lot of holes. Giving up that fourth-round selection stings but if the team is confident they can move up to the Patriots selection and get a good starter at tackle for the next 10 years or a key defensive piece to be a catalyst for the defense, they should pull the trigger. At the same time, they get Dalton’s contract off the books and can use that money to extend guys like Joe Mixon or Carl Lawson, while also signing some veteran leaders.
On the Patriots end, they get Dalton, a veteran quarterback with plenty of success in the league to lead their team. In addition, they get an extra pick, which they should be in the market for considering they are currently without a second-round selection.
Draft Pick Trade Value Chart Breakdown:
CIN receives: 760 points
NE receives: 692 points
Overall: CIN +68