Normally this time of year, teams are trying to execute trades that either fetch them another pick right before the draft or secure them a solid player for relatively cheap. The Chicago Bears are no different. However, once in a while teams may come to a somewhat rare type of agreement. A player-for-player swap. One good example is the Panthers and Chargers swapping Russell Okung and Trai Turner last year. Bears fans might remember the Tyler Clutts-for-Sherrick McManis deal back in 2012.
These types of trades can be mutually beneficial to teams. If nothing else, it offers fresh opportunities to players while filling needs for their new teams. Is there one possibility out there that the Bears could try for? It just so happens there is. One position they seem to have a lot of question marks is wide receiver. Anthony Miller is on the trade block. Javon Wims and Riley Ridley can’t be called locks for the roster at this point. They need more depth and competition.
Could one such option now be available?
From NFL Now on @nflnetwork on a WR to watch for a possible trade in the coming weeks: #Broncos WR DaeSean Hamilton. pic.twitter.com/X5d2280srI
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) April 15, 2021
DaeSean Hamilton was a 4th round pick for Denver in 2018. At the time, many considered him one of the better route runners in the class along with strong hands and outstanding character. However, he never quite seemed to get a fair shake with the Broncos. He was always overshadowed by either high-priced free agents or high draft picks. Now with their depth chart a bit overburdened, he’s on the block.
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Given Miller’s status, adding a slot type like Hamilton would make sense for them. He’s only 26-years old and has a clean health history. The money isn’t an issue. It is a matter of what they’d send back in return. In this case, the Bears’ own 4th round pick from 2018 would make sense. Joel Iyiegbuniwe also turns 26 this year. Denver needs more help at inside linebacker. Vic Fangio is familiar with him from their brief time together three years ago. Even if he doesn’t contribute much on defense, he’ll be an immediate boost to their special teams.
Remember the Bears just re-signed Christian Jones. So he should be a favorite to take over that #3 spot behind Roquan Smith and Danny Trevathan. It’s a trade that makes sense for both sides.
Chicago Bears don’t risk losing much with this trade
They have enough depth at inside linebacker to afford losing Iyiegbuniwe. Conversely, adding Hamilton gives them strong competition for the WR4/5 spots. If he happens to blossom in this offensive system? Even better. Remember both players are free agents after this year. So it’s not like either team has much to lose giving this a shot. If Hamilton shows promise in Chicago, they likely would be able to keep him at a favorable price. If not? Oh well. Move on.
This is all about giving Andy Dalton more options. The Chicago Bears brass made it clear he’s the guy going into this season. That means more weapons are required. Hamilton is an upgrade over Wims and Ridley and at least gives them somebody who can play the slot if and when Miller is out. It’s not a flashy trade but it is one that gives them added flexibility.
It would not preclude them from going receiver early in the draft.
Think about it. Going from Allen Robinson, Darnell Mooney, Miller, and Wims to Robinson, Mooney, a 1st/2nd round pick, and Hamilton would be a solid upgrade. It all depends on whether the Broncos are dead set on getting a draft pick back in return.