NFL Trade Scenarios: One Player Each NFL Team Wishes It Could Trade For

If you could wish for any player to be traded to your team, who would it be?  Would it be Tom Brady or Peyton Manning?  Or maybe you would want Troy Polamalu or Ed Reed? Heck, if your team was the Carolina Panthers, you would probably settle for anyone not named Jimmy Clausen.

The truth is that probably 100 percent of the trades that you are about to see are never going to happen, but it is always enjoyable to wonder "what if."  I'm not saying that I wouldn't love to see DeMarcus Ware or James Harrison in green and gold next season, I'm just saying that it is never going to happen.

So, without further ado, here is one player that ever NFL team wishes it could trade for.

Atlanta Falcons: Troy Polamalu, S

Aaron Rodgers and Green Bay dismantled the Atlanta secondary during the playoffs last season.  It was an ugly display by the Falcons and the secondary is their biggest need.

After trading up in the draft to grab Julio Jones, Atlanta did nothing to improve their cornerback and safety situation during the draft.  Unless they want to get blown out again at home by any number of teams in the NFC, they need Polamalu.

He is arguably the best safety in the league right now and is a stellar playmaker.  He would also bring some much needed experience to Atlanta's defense.  Polamalu's ability and leadership would make the Falcons a Super Bowl favorite instantly.

Arizona Cardinals: Aaron Rodgers, QB

Trust me when I say that Arizona would love to have any competent quarterback running their team. Rodgers gets the nod over Brady or Manning for one reason, Larry Fitzgerald.

Fitzgerald is entering his last year of contract in Arizona and needs to be assured that the Cardinals are moving in the right direction.  Manning and Brady are both older quarterbacks while Rodgers is just entering his prime.

Rodgers and Fitzgerald could team together to form the most lethal tandem in the NFL.  Fitzgerald could have confidence that the guy throwing him the ball will be around for the next 10 or so years.

Of course, as a Packer fan, I would fly to Arizona and kidnap Aaron Rodgers, but it is Arizona's wish and they can do with it what they please.

Baltimore Ravens: Ryan Clady, OT

Teaming Ryan Clady with Michael Oher would give Baltimore the best starting offensive tackles in the NFL.  Joe Flacco would sleep extremely well at night knowing that he is protected by these two gigantic men.

It was hard to pick between Clady, Joe Thomas of the Browns and Jake Long of the Dolphins, so I just flipped a three-headed coin.  Actually, I think Clady has the right type of mentality for Baltimore and would be a great asset to a young Ravens' offense.

Buffalo Bills: DeMarcus Ware, OLB

Looking to add a defensive playmaker, and maybe erase the memory of Shawne Merriman, Buffalo takes the best pass rusher in the NFL.  DeMarcus Ware has absolutely dominated opposing offenses since he stepped on the field in 2005.

Some might be surprised that I picked a defensive player over a quarterback, but I think Buffalo needs to give Ryan Fitzpatrick a full year to prove he can be a reliable quarterback in this league.  Ware and first-round draft pick Marcell Dareus would be a dangerous combination in Buffalo.

Plus, I figure if someone is going to eventually break Bruce Smith's all-time sack record, Ware has the best shot out of any player and he should probably break the record where Smith dominated for so many years.

Carolina Panthers: Larry Fitzgerald, WR

Carolina has to give Cam Newton a chance, right?  What better tool to help a rookie quarterback than an elite wide receiver?  I mean, no way Newton is worse than Derek Anderson, right?

I figure if you invest the top draft pick in a player than you should give him at least a year to see if he has what it takes.  Carolina already has a great defense, talented running backs and a solid offense line, so a top wide receiver is their wish.  Fitzgerald is one of the best in the game and has the ability to put up huge stats even without a great quarterback.

If Newton could figure out the game, Carolina, with the help of Fitzgerald, could be a dangerous team in a few years.

Chicago Bears: Dwayne Bowe, WR

Any wide receiver that actually has some talent will do for Chicago.  Even though Bowe isn't as big of a name as Andre Johnson or Larry Fitzgerald, no receiver caught more touchdowns last year than Bowe.

Since Cutler moved to the Windy City, his group of wide receivers have looked more like a Division I-AA college group than an NFL receiving corp.  Bowe could come in and be an instant upgrade over any other receiver on the roster.  He has trouble with his hands in the past, but his numbers are still extremely impressive.

With Bowe joining the team, maybe Chicago's offense could finally be as talented as their defense.

Cincinnati Bengals: Calvin Johnson, WR

Can you imagine how good the combination of Calvin Johnson and A.J. Green could be in two to three years?  If that doesn't keep Carson Palmer around it is time to get his head checked to make sure he isn't missing a screw or two.

The Owens/Ochocinco experiment didn't go over too well in Cincinnati, but I got a feeling the Johnson/Green duo would not only be more talented, but also less of a headache for personnel.  Johnson's freakish ability puts him in a class of his own.  He has an incredible combination of size and body control to make any quarterback salivate at the opportunity to throw the ball to him.

Within two years, Calvin Johnson and A.J. Green would be giving defensive coordinators nightmares.

Cleveland Browns: Greg Jennings, WR

Colt McCoy doesn't have the strongest arm in the league. and there might not be a better receiver at turning slant passes into long gains than Greg Jennings.  That sounds like a winning combination to me.

Jennings is one of the most underrated receivers in the league.  He consistently puts up great numbers, but rarely gets the credit he deserves.  In Cleveland, his numbers might drop a little, but Jennings would prove great assistance in the development of McCoy.

With Jennings, the Browns might finally be a dark horse for a playoff spot in the AFC.

Dallas Cowboys: Chris Johnson, RB

With Chris Johnson, the Dallas Cowboys offense would be nearly unstoppable.  When you combine Johnson's talents with Miles Austin, Tony Romo, Dez Bryant, Jason Witten and Roy Williams, it is an unfair to other teams.

Johnson is always in the debate for best running back in the league.  In fact, most people either consider Johnson or Adrian Peterson the best.  I think Johnson's speed and breakaway ability is more of what Dallas is looking for.  He would be a much better version of Felix Jones.

I can already see Jerry Jones rolling out the red carpet and making a huge spectacle once Johnson stepped foot in Dallas.

Denver Broncos: Ed Reed, S

For now, I am assuming that the Denver front office will be smart and give the starting job to Kyle Orton next season.  That is why the Broncos wish for Ed Reed and not a quarterback.

Reed is electric with the ball in his hands and is one of the top play making defensive backs in the league.  The Broncos have a talented front seven and Reed could team with Champ Bailey for a few years in the secondary.  In fact, I believe that Reed would have even more opportunities to make plays because of Bailey.  He would become the best player on Denver's roster the second he was traded.

Detroit Lions: Adrian Peterson, RB

I like Detroit this year.  I'm a Packer fan and for the first time in years, I admit that I am a little shaky about the Lions.

They have a great young defense and a talented cornerback could also be a wish, but Adrian Peterson is too good to pass up for Detroit.  Peterson is a work horse and the most aggressive running back playing today.  Not only does he have the ability to make you miss, if you happen to get in his way he will just run you over. 

With Peterson, Stafford and Johnson, the Detroit Lions would be an NFC North nightmare.

Green Bay Packers: James Harrison, OLB

Close your eyes and imagine Clay Matthews and James Harrison on the same team.  If I was a quarterback and I had Matthews coming at me from one side and Harrison coming at me from the other side, I would simply curl up in the fetal position.

Harrison has been striking fear into opposing players for a few years now.  He is tenacious and a brutal hitter in the open field.  He plays every down at 110 percent and few players have the constant motor like he does.  In Dom Capers aggressive style of defense, Harrison would excel greatly. 

When you watch James Harrison play it is easy to see why he is one of the best defensive players in the game.

Houston Texans: Charles Woodson, CB

It is true that Charles Woodson is getting up in the age category, but he is still the best all-around cornerback.  He could come in and play either cornerback or safety, as the Texans need help at either position. 

The Texans had the worst pass defense last year and Woodson could immediately change that.  Not only would he help with pass defense, but Woodson would also be a great asset at stopping the run too.  He is one of those rare players that seems to be getting better with age.

Houston already boasts a great front seven on defense and with the help of Woodson their secondary could be good enough to finally get them into the playoffs. 

Indianapolis Colts: Jake Long, T

Right now all Indianapolis should worry about is protecting Peyton Manning.  That is why they would wish for one of the best left tackles in the game.

As long as Manning is the quarterback for the Colts they will always be a threat to contend for a Super Bowl.  Long is only 26 years old, but has already proved to be an elite lineman in only three seasons.  He has been to the Pro Bowl in each of his three years in the league and that streak should easily continue for many years to come.

Colts' fans can be assured that Peyton's blind side will be in good hands with Jake Long at left tackle.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Andre Johnson, WR

Jacksonville could really wish for a few different positions, but they haven't had a decent wide receiver since Jimmy Smith. 

Andre Johnson is the best receiver in the NFL and he doesn't look ready to give up that honor anytime soon.  With great strength, size and hands, Johnson is difficult to stop in any facet of the game.  He is a deep threat, but he can also play underneath.  When he gets the ball in the red zone he is nearly unstoppable.

It doesn't matter if David Garrard or Blaine Gabbert is throwing him the ball, Johnson will still dominate for Jacksonville.

Kansas City Chiefs: Jermichael Finley, TE

I know Finley has yet to produce a full season's worth of elite statistics, but I still like him in Kansas City.  I also know that Antonio Gates or Vernon Davis are available, but I believe Finley is going to have a breakout year.

Kansas City lacked options in their passing game last year.  Dwayne Bowe had a huge season, but Chris Chambers only had 22 receptions and Dexter McCluster only had 21.  With Finley's athleticism, he could stretch the field and cause major match-up issues. 

The Chiefs are a run oriented team, but Finley's talents would be used greatly by quarterback Matt Cassel.

Miami Dolphins: Matt Ryan, QB

What Miami needs more than anything right now is a quarterback that is a proven winner.  There are few who have shown that they can win as much as Ryan has during his time in the NFL.

Ryan doesn't have the best arm in the league.  He isn't the best athlete either.  What Miami gets with Ryan is a player who will come in from day one and be a leader on and off the field.  He is clutch and plays his best when the game is on the line.  He will never lead the league statistically, but you can guarantee whatever team he is on will always be a contender. 

I still think what Matt Ryan overcame as a rookie with Atlanta was incredible and was one of the greatest rookie seasons by a quarterback in NFL history. 

Minnesota Vikings: Patrick Willis, MLB

Minnesota is another team that spent a high draft pick on a quarterback, so I didn't feel they should wish for a quarterback quite yet.  Instead, the Vikings wish for the best linebacker out there.

Ever since Patrick Willis entered the league in 2007, he has been a dominant force for the 49ers.  He plays with great passion and intensity and reminds some of a young Ray Lewis.  Willis always seems to be around the ball and his efforts has earned him a trip to four straight Pro Bowls.

Minnesota's defense was shaky last year, but I guarantee that won't be the case if Willis was roaming the middle of the field for the Vikings.

New England Patriots: Maurice Jones-Drew, RB

New England is a tough team to figure out what they would wish for.  They don't really have any top receivers, but that has never stopped Tom Brady in the past.  I finally settled on the Patriots wishing for a great running back.

Maurice Jones-Drew seemed like the perfect fit in New England.  He has a bruising style of football and would be nearly impossible to tackle during snowy games in the winter.  He is also a viable option as a receiver and would open up the playbook for the Patriots offense.

It has been years, and maybe even decades, since New England has had a running back of Jones-Drew's talent.  An undefeated season wouldn't be an unrealistic goal.

New Orleans Saints: Elvis Dumervil, OLB

New Orleans is another team that is solid all around, but they could really use a linebacker that can get after the quarterback.

Enter Elvis Dumervil and his 43 career sacks in only four playing years.  He is coming off a injury that cost him the entire 2010 season, but I don't expect that to change the impact he can have on games.  What makes Dumervil such a great player is his ability to play either outside linebacker or defensive end.  In New Orleans, Dumervil would spend most of his time as a linebacker.

Dumervil will be looking to show he still has what it takes to be effective and could be a game changer for the Saints.

New York Giants: Lance Briggs, OLB

The Giants have one of the top defensive lines in the NFL, but they lack skill at the linebacker position.  Lance Briggs is a top outside linebacker and would be a great addition to New York's front seven.

Briggs isn't known as a pass rusher, but the Giants already get plenty of pressure up front with their defensive lineman.  What Briggs is know for is his great ability as a tackler.  He has great instincts and generally is near the team lead in tackles.  He can also drop back into coverage and isn't a liability in that respect.

New York Jets: Jay Cutler, QB

Before all you Jets fans start going crazy, let me explain myself here.  It is actually pretty logical when you really think about it.

First, Mark Sanchez isn't a very good quarterback.  Second, the Jets have great vertical threats in Santonio Holmes, Braylon Edwards and Jerricho Cotchery.  Finally, Jay Cutler has one of the biggest arms in the NFL and would excel with so many deep threats at his disposal.  He might not be able to emotionally handle New York, but he could figure all that out when he got there.

I know it might be hard to throw Sanchez away with him being so young, but he really isn't that good and Cutler is a better option.

Oakland Raiders: Reggie Wayne, WR

I really felt like Oakland made some great strides last year and looks like they are close to becoming a respectable franchise again.

The Raiders have some talented young receivers, but they could really use a veteran that could come in a show the younger players how it is really done.  No receiver has been as consistent at producing as Wayne has over the course of his career.  He has great hands and is a precise route runner.

Even as Wayne begins to age, it doesn't appear that he is slowing down at all.

Philadelphia Eagles: Nnamdi Asomugha, CB

Nnamdi Asomugha might actually end up in Philadelphia, but since it isn't a sure thing, the Eagles can still wish to bring his talents to Philly.

Experts could debate who the best cornerback in the game is for hours, but one thing that is certain is that Asomugha is definitely in the debate.  Opposing quarterbacks are so afraid of him that the ball was only thrown in his direction 31 times last season.  He is the definition of a shutdown quarterback and would pair nicely with Asante Samuel.

People always want to knock Asomugha for the lack of stats that he puts up, but when you watch him play, it is easy to see why he is considered one of the best.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Darrelle Revis, CB

Pittsburgh had their weak secondary revealed by the Green Bay Packers in the Super Bowl last year.  Ike Taylor is a nice player, but he isn't good enough to be considered the teams top cornerback.

Darrelle Revis, on the other hand, is a true shutdown corner.  He possesses great hands and the ability to shadow receivers.  What is so impressive about Revis is that is only 25 years old and is already an elite player.  If Pittsburgh added Revis it would take pressure of Taylor and improve the Steelers secondary greatly.

San Diego Chargers: Clay Matthews, OLB

San Diego fans still remember when Shawne Merriman was a dominant outside linebacker for them back in 2006.  Clay Matthews could erase Merriman from the Chargers memory completely.

Matthews will only be entering his third year, but he is already a top defensive player.  He finished second in the voting for Defensive Player of the Year and he missed three games during the season.  Matthews is relentless in his pursuit of the quarterback and is a great competitor. 

His ability to get after the quarterback and make plays could even push San Diego into the Super Bowl next season.

San Francisco 49ers: Drew Brees, QB

The quarterback situation in San Francisco has been difficult to watch recently.  Neither Alex Smith or Troy Smith is the long term answer for the 49ers, so they really need an established quarterback.

Drew Brees has had an extremely impressive career to date.  He is a fantastic person who could come in and change the mindset in San Francisco.  He would love to have Michael Crabtree and Vernon Davis as weapons, not to mention a running back like Frank Gore. 

Brees would also be a great mentor for rookie Colin Kaepernick.

Seattle Seahawks: Arian Foster, RB

When I tried to come up with who Seattle would wish for, I came to realize that Seattle would probably wish for a magic lamp so they could have more than one wish.  How this team made the playoffs and beat the New Orleans Saints still amazes me.

With so many needs, Seattle would eventually decide to wish for an elite running back.  Even though there are other running backs who have proven to be elite for numerous seasons, Foster had a huge season last year and looks to be the real deal.  Foster led the league in rushing yards and touchdowns as an undrafted player.

It's scary to think that Foster will only improve over time.

St. Louis Rams: Roddy White, WR

Sam Bradford was extremely impressive in his rookie season and lived up to his first overall pick status.  What makes Bradford's season even more impressive is that he was throwing the ball to no name receivers.

White is a top-five receiver and would immediately become Bradford's top target.  White can stretch the field and is great at making something out of nothing.  He is sure handed and rarely makes mistakes.  He never gives up on plays which was evident when he chased down Nate Clements late in a game against the 49ers.

If Bradford had a player with White's ability to throw the ball to, I think he would quickly become the best young quarterback in the league.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Joe Thomas, OT

The future in Tampa Bay is Josh Freeman so protecting him becomes the top priority.  The behemoth known as Joe Thomas out of Wisconsin is the perfect fit for the Buccaneers.

To put it simply, Joe Thomas has been a dominant force since he came into the league.  He has made the Pro Bowl in each of his four seasons in the NFL.  He would easily anchor Tampa's offensive line for the next 10 years.

If Josh Freeman is healthy, Tampa will be a force in the NFC and Joe Thomas would help keep Freeman off the ground.

Tennessee Titans: Peyton Manning, QB

I know every other team that drafted a quarterback in this years draft wished for a position other than quarterback, but Tennessee is an exception.  Why?  Well, because Peyton Manning might be loved more in Tennessee than he is in Indianapolis.

The former Tennessee Volunteer is still a top quarterback and would make Tennessee the team to beat in the AFC South.  Manning could possibly end his career as the greatest quarterback to ever play the game.  He is constantly the smartest player on the field and always appears to be one step ahead of the defense. 

Tennessee has a solid defense and with Chris Johnson, Manning might actually be able to share the load of carrying a team.

Washington Redskins: Tom Brady, QB

I honestly didn't even know where to begin with Washington, so it would make perfect sense that they would wish for the best player in the NFL, Tom Brady.

To say that Brady is an upgrade over Rex Grossman is quite an understatement.  In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if Brady has put up better stats in one season than Grossman has put up in his whole career.  He is the smoothest quarterback playing today and makes everyone around him better.  He is the special type of player that only comes around every couple of decades.

Brady has won Super Bowls with less talent around him than the Redskins have.  It would be a safe bet to say that Brady could hoist another Lombardi Trophy with Washington.