ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that Seahawks WR DK Metcalf has requested a trade. Metcalf has one year remaining on his contract and just turned 27 in mid-December. He's reportedly seeking a new contract.
Schefter: "The request came today after a series of conversations over the past two weeks. Metcalf prefers a contender."
NFL Network's Tom Pelissero: "Metcalf and the Seahawks met today and the decision was made to pursue trade opportunities. Days before free agency, the 27-year-old Metcalf immediately becomes the top receiver available."
That last point's not even arguable, with the Bengals keeping WR Tee Higgins off the market.
So where does Metcalf go? There could be any number of suitors. And the fact that both sides have reportedly settled on pursuing this route after multiple meetings should only increase the chances of a move.
Metcalf clearly has the talent to produce fantasy numbers wherever he lands. He'll be best off with a QB who throws competently downfield. The Bills and Chargers might be ideal fits.
Let's hope the impending start of free agency speeds the process.
Perhaps a bad landing spot could darken Metcalf's outlook. But he's still closer to the beginning of the traditional prime for his position. And he has spent the past four years with ... let's say decent QB play (Russell Wilson's final Seattle campaign, then three years of Geno Smith).
Metcalf should remain a solid-to-good fantasy asset no matter where he lands.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba might be a minor winner here.
You might be tempted to push him beyond that level thanks to potentially vacated targets from Metcalf and Tyler Lockett (getting released). But JSN finished 10th in total PPR points and ranked 12th among WRs in targets with Metcalf around.
As primarily a shorter-range slot WR, JSN might benefit from having a real outside threat around.
QB Geno Smith, on the other hand, will be a clear loser if Metcalf's dealt. We'll see what other passing-game moves they make. But Seattle appears likely to throw less in 2025 and see at least a slight decline in WR talent.
Despite finishing just 32nd among WRs in half-PPR points per game last season, Metcalf sits 25th at the position in current best ball ADP -- going at the end of Round 4 on Underdog Fantasy.
That's a fair position for Metcalf, and I'd bet we don't see much movement unless he lands in a particularly exciting spot.
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