Once the Chicago Bears traded Khalil Mack, people began to speculate whether Robert Quinn would soon be next. It made sense from the standpoint of a team that is rebuilding. Unload older players with big contracts in exchange for draft picks. At 32-year old, Quinn checks those boxes. He’s also coming off a season with 18.5 sacks, so his stock is unlikely ever to go higher than it is right now. Thus far, the Bears haven’t chosen to move the defensive end and are reportedly not shopping him.
Of course, it could just be that they haven’t received an offer they deem worth it yet. GM Ryan Poles has no reason to rush such a decision. Quinn is an excellent fit for head coach Matt Eberflus’ new defense and can be a major contributor. If another team is willing to make a stronger offer, then discussions can happen. Alex Kay of the Bleacher Report believes there is one scenario with a strong likelihood of happening.
Los Angeles Rams receive: Edge Robert Quinn
Chicago Bears receive: Los Angeles’ 2023 second-round draft pick
Because of this production and cost, contending teams should be willing to dish out an early pick or two for Quinn’s services.
The Los Angeles Rams would be a great landing spot, bolstering their already elite defense by bringing this dangerous pass-rusher aboard.
The squad needs another player to attack the quarterback after losing Von Miller in free agency. Plus, Quinn should have a level of comfortability returning to the franchise that drafted him in 2011.
It is an intriguing idea.
The Rams are in perpetual win-now mode, a team that tends to favor spending their higher draft choices on proven veterans. Nobody can say it hasn’t worked after winning the Super Bowl last year. Losing Miller is a big blow for them. While they still have Leonard Floyd, their #2 option is either Justin Hollins or Terrell Lewis. Robert Quinn would be a massive upgrade over either of them and keep that defensive front dominant.
While trading him would hurt the Bears defense initially, it would give Poles three picks in the first two rounds next offseason. A premium opportunity to add young, cheap front-line talent to his roster. Not to mention help Justin Fields in the process. The Bears GM may be biding his time. Teams might not yet be willing to give up such a high pick for an older pass rusher. That tune could change quickly if a contender loses their best QB hunter to a season-ending injury.
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