NFL Transaction Period on Horizon, Several Notables Could be Dealt

NFL News - March 3rd, 2010 - Written by John Ritter Bryan Cross

With the beginning of the NFL transaction period on Friday, several organizations will look to make moves to improve their roster for the upcoming season, filling voids and making the decisions that they feel is best for the team.

ESPN NFL correspondent Adam Schefter believes that several key players are on the market, and will likely be moved in the off-season. Because there are not many top unrestricted free agents available, this transaction period could be one of the most active in recent memory.

Chicago Bears tight-end Greg Olsen is one of the players at the forefront of the list. Olsen has underachieved since being selected by Chicago in the first round of the 2007 NFL draft, out of the University of Miami (FL). Olsen has hauled in 153 receptions for 1,577 yards and 15 touchdowns in his career. Quarterback Jay Cutler and Olsen have not developed a chemistry, and the Bears will look to get draft picks for the tight-end. Currently, the Bears do not have a first or second round pick in April's draft.

San Diego Charger defensive back Antonio Cromartie is another player who Shefter reports of a potential move. The Chargers recently released running back LaDainian Tomlinson, and have several areas that will need to be addressed in the off-season. Cromartie is a player that the team could shop for additional draft picks, or position players. The Chargers will look to fill the need at the running back position, and can get a quality opportunity by dealing Cromartie.

Baltimore running back Willis McGahee is another potential player to be traded. The Ravens have two quality backs in Ray Rice and Leron McClain, both of whom are younger and equally talented. If a team such as San Diego or another who is looking for a running back presents an enticing offer, McGahee could be dealt.

Denver receiver Brandon Marshall is a restricted free agent, and the Broncos would try to get a first round pick, or multiple round picks. Marshall is one of the most talented and productive receiver in the league. The asking price may be too high for teams however.

Arizona Wide receiver Anquan Boldin is another player who could be dealt during the transaction period. The Cardinals shopped Boldin last year, but the price was too high. If they come down, Arizona could get draft picks and fill the voids and areas needing to be addressed.

NFL Sportsbooks are currently fielding wagers for Super Bowl XLV. The Peyton Manning led Indianapolis Colts were defeated by the New Orleans Saints this season in Super Bowl XLIV, but are installed as the betting favorites on Bodog Sportsbook, with odds at 7/1, according to NFL Betting Lines.