Ryan Poles Confirmed To Have A Shot At Top O-Line Trade Target
The Chicago Bears have typically been aggressive around the trade deadline, trying to fill at key positions. GM Ryan Poles isn’t afraid to take a swing. So far, he’s batting .500, missing on Chase Claypool but hitting on Montez Sweat. With the Bears 4-2, this feels like a good time to roll the dice against, loading up for a playoff run. What isn’t clear is who Poles could target on the market. Lately, it’s been wide receiver-heavy. The Bears don’t need help there. Pass rushers are typically too expensive. Offensive linemen make the most sense, but those are rarely traded.
Until now, it seems. Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported on NFL.com that the Jacksonville Jaguars may end up shopping two prominent names on their front line. One of them could be the exact solution Poles is looking for to solidify his own.
Jacksonville Jaguars OL Brandon Scherff: The Jaguars have already dealt one veteran this season — sending Roy Robertson-Harris to the Seahawks — leading teams to do work on others. Scherff, who is in the final year of his contract, has garnered interest if the 2-5 Jags can’t start a turnaround. Multiple teams have lost left tackles, so it wouldn’t be a surprise if Cam Robinson also garnered interest.
Ryan Poles can finally settle down right guard with Scherff.
Though 32 years old, the former Pro Bowler remains one of the NFL’s best. He has allowed only seven pressures on Trevor Lawrence in seven games this season. He is a smart technician with power and a mean streak. Those check all the boxes Ryan Poles looks for. The fact he is also a team captain means he’d bring much-needed experience and leadership to a largely young offensive line room. Given his age and contract status, it is unlikely Jacksonville can get more than a 5th round pick for him. The Bears do have one available for next year. Sending that to the Jaguars for Scherff and a 6th or 7th feels like the type of deal that makes sense for both sides. Chicago gets an excellent veteran to help with their playoff push. Jacksonville gets some cap space and a decent pick.
Much of this hinges on what happens on Sunday. If the Jaguars fall to the Green Bay Packers to reach 2-6, they are almost certain to sell at the deadline. A win may convince them to hold off.