Cody Barton Trade Speculation Intensifies as Titans Eye Deadline Decisions
The Tennessee Titans are facing a pivotal moment as the NFL trade deadline approaches on November 4. With a disheartening 1-5 record, the Titans find themselves mired in the AFC standings, prompting speculation that they may opt to trade away some key players in hopes of acquiring valuable draft capital for the future.
Barton Emerges as a Trade Candidate
Among the players generating buzz is linebacker Cody Barton. Recently highlighted by Bleacher Report, Barton has been identified as a potential trade candidate as general manager Mike Borgonzi seeks to reshape the team’s trajectory.
Barton, who has 49 starts under his belt, signed a three-year contract during the offseason, which complicates the decision to part with him. However, with his 29th birthday approaching this November, the Titans might consider leveraging his value as a trade asset. According to reports, Barton has recorded 38 tackles and two passes defended this season, making him an appealing option for teams looking to bolster their linebacker corps amid injuries or inconsistent performances.
Assessing the Trade Value
The suggested price tag for Barton stands at a fourth-round pick. Acquiring such a selection could be pivotal for the Titans as they look to rebuild. The team has Cedric Gray, one of the league’s top tacklers, ready to step into the spotlight if Barton is traded, allowing for a seamless transition on defense.
Yet, while the logic behind a potential trade is evident, the reality may differ. Given that Barton was a recent signing, it seems unlikely that Borgonzi would part ways with a player he specifically targeted in free agency. Last season’s trade of linebacker Ernest Jones IV to the Seattle Seahawks by former GM Ran Carthon serves as a reference point, but Borgonzi’s vision for the team’s future may lead him to retain Barton as a cornerstone of the defense.
The Current Landscape for the Titans
While contenders such as the Buffalo Bills and San Francisco 49ers may be willing to offer a substantial return for Barton, the Titans must carefully consider the implications of trading away a veteran leader. With recent upheaval in the coaching staff, including the dismissal of head coach Brian Callahan, the Titans need stability as they navigate this challenging phase of their rebuild.
The trade deadline presents a crucial juncture for the Titans. A hasty decision to overhaul the roster could hinder their progress and deepen their struggles in the league. Instead, maintaining a core group, including a seasoned linebacker like Barton, may provide the foundation necessary for a more robust resurgence in the coming seasons.
