Jacksonville Jaguars QB Gardner Minshew II was replaced this offseason when the Jaguars took Trevor Lawrence first overall. Minshew has been a decent QB through his two years in the NFL, though it is obvious he is not a franchise player like Trevor Lawrence. Minshew did have a solid year last year with 2,259 yards passing and 16 touchdowns in only nine games. However, he wasn’t able to get the ball to Pro Bowler DJ Chark Jr. even when wide open.
So, should the Jags trade the 2019 sixth-round pick before the start of the 2021 regular season? Well, reports recently came out that the Jags would accept a 5th or 6th round pick for the former starter. Here are three potential trade packages that would include Minshew:
Minshew to Washington
Jaguars Receive: 2022 4th Round Pick
Washington Football Team Receive: Gardner Minshew, 2022 6th Round pick
This trade would make sense for both sides as Ryan Fitzpatrick is 38-years-old. Minshew has the potential to be an upgrade, depending on how he improves. Furthermore, Washington does not own a 5th round pick, so a 6th round pick can help them. However, Washington could likely be uninterested in Minshew because they already have taken a flyer on Taylor Heinecke and Kyle Allen, who are on the roster.
Minshew to the Falcons
Jaguars Receive: 2022 5th Round Pick
Falcons Receive: Gardner Minshew
Matt Ryan is a very solid QB, however, the Falcons need to get younger with Julio Jones out the door, meaning Atlanta can take the chance and trade for Minshew. In addition, Ryan has an enormous contract, so the Falcons would like to dispose of it eventually.
Also, Maurice Moton of Bleacher Report said on draft night that Atlanta was interested in Minshew, making this even more of a possibility.
Minshew to Denver
Jaguars Receive: 2023 4th Round Pick
Broncos Receive: Gardner Minshew
While the Denver Broncos already have Drew Lock and Teddy Bridgewater, it never hurts to bring competition. With a trade involving Gardner Minshew, Denver can trade Drew Lock, who ranks as the worst passer in the NFL in several categories. Furthermore, Teddy Bridgewater has dealt with numerous amounts of injuries, making it prominent for a solid backup quarterback.
Other Teams That Could Be Interested
Eagles: The Eagles could be a team with an interest in Minshew. Jalen Hurts is likely the starter no matter what, but if he falters, Philadelphia would have another young QB ready to go.
Raiders: While the Raiders already have Derek Carr and Marcus Mariota, Las Vegas could also be interested in trading for Minshew. The Raiders might want a young and capable backup as Marcus Mariota is not under contract past the 2021 season.
Rams: The Rams traded for Matt Stafford this offseason, but still could use a good backup. Especially with Stafford’s injury history, a solid and cheap backup like Minshew would be ideal.
Saints: The Saints have Taysom Hill and Jameis Winston, but it remains to be seen how confident they are as a starting quarterback. Minshew would, at least, be a good backup in case things go haywire.