sportingnews
The Tennessee Titans have stumbled to an 0-3 start, and the outlook appears bleak for the remainder of the season. Both the offense, led by Cam Ward, and the defense have failed to impress, leaving the team staring at another potential bottom-tier finish in the NFL standings.
As a result, the Titans are expected to be active sellers as the trade deadline approaches. Among the names generating buzz is running back Tony Pollard, who ESPN's Adam Schefter identifies as a prime trade candidate for two key reasons: the team's dismal record and his lucrative contract.
"Tony Pollard fits the profile of somebody who could be dealt before the trade deadline," Schefter explained. "A team that's not winning, with a player in the last year of his contract... if there's a team that needs running back help, Pollard might be the first call."
Pollard, 29, is in the final year of a three-year, $21.75 million deal, making him a free agent after the season. Given that Tennessee would likely receive no compensation if he walks, trading him now makes strategic sense. The team could then turn to Tyjae Spears and Nicholas Singleton to handle running back duties, a scenario that isn't as dire as it might seem.
Key Analysis
With the Titans' season already slipping away, moving Pollard would allow them to acquire assets rather than lose him for nothing. Several teams, including the Green Bay Packers, Seattle Seahawks, and Minnesota Vikings, could be in the market for backfield reinforcements, and more suitors may emerge as injuries arise in the coming weeks.
In short, Pollard's expiring contract and Tennessee's poor record make him one of the most logical trade chips in the NFL this season.
Originally reported by sportingnews.