The NFL is nearing roster cutdown day, which will see many talented players hit the waiver wire. It also presents a key opportunity to make trades in the coming days, capitalizing on value from players who would have likely been cut. The Baltimore Ravens are one team expected to have a talented group of players get cut following their Week 3 game against the Washington Commanders.
General Manager Eric DeCosta could have his hands full with trade offers. While the team hopes to keep many young players on the practice squad, that will ultimately not be the result for everyone. In those cases, the Ravens could opt to make one or two trades. Here are two players who could meet an end in Baltimore via trade.
2 Ravens trade candidates ahead of roster cutdown day
Chandler Martin
When it comes to linebackers this preseason, undrafted rookie Jay Higgins has taken up all the spotlight. He is making play after play, forcing turnovers, and showcasing elite instincts in the middle of the field. Trenton Simpson and Teddye Buchanan have also been focal points, as the Ravens are looking for a quality starting linebacker next to Roquan Smith. That has left Chandler Martin’s play unrecognized.
Through two preseason games, Martin has been a top player on Baltimore’s defense. He kicked it off on the right foot, posting an 86.7 overall grade against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 1, per Pro Football Focus. In Week 2 against the Dallas Cowboys, he earned a strong 77.7 grade. Both performances were in the top five on defense.
Unfortunately, there is no room for Martin. He is a player the Ravens would love to have on the practice squad, but he is likely sixth in line on the depth chart. With so much depth, he could be a trade candidate. The encouraging performances from the undrafted rookie out of Memphis could build a competitive market.
Beau Brade
Someone in the safety room is on their way out. There are three players vying for two spots, with all likely being too valuable to pass through waivers and be scooped back up on the practice squad. Between Reuben Lowery, Sanoussi Kane, and Beau Brade, Brade could be the most likely trade piece.
Kane and Brade have produced nearly identically throughout camp and the preseason. The two have been impressing the coaching staff, but Kane seems to have a slight edge. He has gotten the starts over Brade in both preseason games, getting more snaps, as well. That could mean Brade is the odd man out, potentially putting him on the trade block.
Brade offers the ability as a deep safety and can also play down in the box. While the NFL is finding increasingly more value in two-high safety looks, the running game is taking over, which could shift the focus to a versatile player like Brade.
The Ravens could luck out and bring Martin and Brade back on the practice squad, but it is not guaranteed. If they fear they could lose players like those two for nothing, the front office could listen to trade offers.