Detroit Lions starting quarterback Matthew Stafford found himself in headlines this weekend when NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported that the 32-year-old is requesting a trade from the only pro football home he's known since the 2009 NFL Draft.
Amid rumors that Stafford wishes to join the Indianapolis Colts during the offseason, BetOnline.ag currently lists the Colts as the favorites (+300) to land Stafford's services:
The Colts have emerged as favorites to land Matthew Stafford
— BetOnline.ag (@betonline_ag) January 25, 2021
Indianapolis Colts +300
San Francisco 49ers +350
Denver Broncos +450
New England Patriots +500
Washington Football Team +600
Carolina Panthers +800
Las Vegas Raiders +1000
Los Angeles Rams +1100
Houston Texans +1200 pic.twitter.com/nhQNU6EFe5
Veteran Philip Rivers announced his retirement last week and could be headed to the commentary booth, and backup Jacoby Brissett is no longer under contract and not viewed as a long-term answer at the sport's most important position. Current Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz has also been linked with the Colts due to his relationship with former Philadelphia offensive coordinator and current Indianapolis head coach Frank Reich.
The San Francisco 49ers are second on the list at +350, largely because it's uncertain if the team is committed to often-injured signal-caller Jimmy Garoppolo for the 2021 season.
The jury remains out on Denver Broncos starter Drew Lock, and the numbers suggest that Stafford would be an upgrade for Denver (+450). The New England Patriots (+500), meanwhile, are expected to move on from Cam Newton after a single season.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reported in November that Washington Football Team head coach Ron Rivera wants to run it back next fall with Comeback Player of the Year Alex Smith as his quarterback. BetOnline seems unconvinced, however, and listed Washington at +600 to acquire Stafford.
As Dean Jones wrote for Cat Crave, the Carolina Panthers haven't dismissed including Teddy Bridgewater in a trade for a quarterback such as Stafford. The Panthers at +800 could prove to be worth a flier.
Those who believe Las Vegas Raiders coach Jon Gruden could part ways with Derek Carr can get the Raiders at +1000. Los Angeles Rams (+1100) head coach Sean McVay recently hinted that Jared Goff is not cemented as his starter for next September. The Houston Texans (+1200) may feel forced to trade wantaway quarterback Deshaun Watson if that relationship is deemed unsalvageable.
The Panthers and Miami Dolphins are betting favorites to trade for Watson.
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