Arizona Cardinals: 3 Huge Trade Predictions

Arizona Cardinals receive:
Louis Vasquez – OG
7th Round Selection

Denver Broncos receive:
6th Round Selection

What We Got: The Cardinals have been upgrading the offensive line since the Steve Keim regime took over, and so far it’s been a huge and resounding success. I like to think that Steve Keim has yet to put the finishing touches on dominating the trenches, but with this trade it’s certainly almost done. The Cardinals get a road-grader, as Louis Vasquez is a great talent, in my opinion, and seems reasonably cheap. If Denver gives the Cardinals the trade, the Cardinals would essentially be on the hook for only an estimated $5,500,000 (I know, it seems like a lot), and that’s a lot cheaper then other free agents like Alex Mack and Jahri Evans. With the news of Jonathan Cooper becoming the potential center, I like to address the right guard spot, and I still think Louis Vasquez can play center if need be.

What They Got: For those who think this is a one-sided trade, I’ll go ahead and tell you it’s very much not a one -sided trade. The Broncos benefit the most, as the Broncos are desperate enough to attempt to keep Brock Osweiler and Von Miller (maybe even Malik Jackson and Danny Trevathan). They are about to let go of some big contracts, looking for trade partners, and I think the Cardinals could benefit just as much as the Broncos could. They don’t just get rid of contract, they also swap a 7th round for a 6th round selection, and maybe that contributes in the same type of way. The Broncos are a very talented team, and with the impending retirement of Peyton Manning (all that cap space), this trade might not even have to happen. They still should think about moving a few pieces though.

Projected Stats:

Louis Vasquez – OG – 15 starts

Final Notes: In many ways, the Cardinals are continually trying to get better on the offensive line, and this kind of trade makes a lot of sense. The great thing (and bad thing) about this kind of trade, it uses up a little bit of cap and the Cardinals are able to grab Vasquez on a possible prove-it deal. There is only one year left on Vasquez, he can either prove it or there is no risk to let him walk for free agency in 2017. The Broncos get much needed salary cap, only having to pay $1.5M of the salary. This just makes a lot of sense.