The Broncos looked into acquiring defensive lineman Sheldon Richardson from the Jets in advance of last week’s trade deadline, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.com (Twitter link). Ultimately, Richardson stayed in New York, but the club is likely to continue trade talks during the offseason, per Schefter.
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Prior reports have indicated that the Jets also discussed Richardson with the Cowboys, who apparently made an offer for the pass rusher. Additionally, Jason La Canfora of CBSSports.com reported over the weekend that New York initially “marketed” Richardson to NFC contenders, including the Redskins, Eagles, Seahawks, and Cardinals. General manager Mike Maccagnan & Co. were said to be looking for a “very strong return,” which most rival clubs took to mean a first-round pick.
Denver’s defense, of course, already ranks as one of the league’s best, but if the unit has a weakness, it’s probably the defensive line. Richardson could have aided a front three that has already lost Vance Walker for the season, and is now set miss fellow end Derek Wolfe for an undetermined amount of time (though Wolfe’s injury obviously occurred after the trade deadline). The Broncos could also lose defensive tackle Sylvester Williams to free agency in 2017 after failing to exercise his fifth-year option.
On a related note, Richardson — as well as fellow defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson — were benched for the first quarter of Sunday’s game against the Dolphins after repeatedly missing (or coming in late to) team meetings, a source tells Connor Hughes of NJ.com, who adds that the duo’s indiscretions happen “all the time.” Head coach Todd Bowles says he’s pleased with both Richardson and Wilkerson’s “level of commitment,” according to Ralph Vacchiano of SNY (Twitter link), but the story clearly won’t help the Jets’ efforts to move Richardson in the coming months.
Send two 1sts for Sheldo
I imagine the Jets wanted a 1st, but with all his off-field baggage, they were getting a 2nd rounder tops.