Dwight Freeney on the Trade Block: Which AFC East Teams Could Pull the Trigger?

Anytime a big-name player becomes available, the first question that gets asked is, which teams need him most?

That question's now being asked about Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney, who was put on the trading block today, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. When looking at that question from an AFC East perspective, all four teams could use a player like him (at the right price, of course).

Then, the big question is: "Which teams are most likely to pull the trigger?"

New England Patriots: Average

Due diligence. That's what the New England Patriots will do anytime a player becomes available, especially one as talented as Freeney. 

The biggest question for the Patriots this offseason is what the future holds in the front seven. Will they stick with the 4-3 that helped them greatly improve the pass rush, or will they revert back to the 3-4 that has been Bill Belichick's bread and butter since he became a coach? Perhaps they run a hybrid look, as they have in recent years, where they adjust according to their opponent.

Freeney's due $14.035 million in 2012 according to Rotoworld, though it's a number that he'll most definitely have to restructure following a trade to New England. They don't like to pay a player more than what one of their own is already making, and nose tackle Vince Wilfork is set to make $4 million in 2012.

At their price, it's hard not to see the Patriots as an interested trade partner. Belichick has spoken glowingly of Freeney in the past, and the Patriots could use a defensive presence like Freeney, especially if they lose Mark Anderson and/or Andre Carter to free agency. If they aren't willing to pay Anderson or Carter what they're asking, chances are they won't allot that kind of money for Freeney, either.

Miami Dolphins: High

For a Dolphins defense that improved so greatly over the course of the 2011 season, it seems odd that there are so many needs for them. Such is life when you switch to a 4-3 front and are set to lose your best defensive tackle to free agency. But what a better quick fix than to trade for Freeney? He and Cameron Wake on the same defensive line would be a worse nightmare than Freddie Krueger for quarterbacks. 

The Dolphins do have a bit of a salary issue, though, but as mentioned before, Freeney would likely restructure his deal after a trade. Even still, the Dolphins would probably have to clear up some additional space to make room for him, especially if Manning winds up wearing Miami teal-and-orange.

With all the rumors and thoughts floating around about former Colts potentially joining the Dolphins, Miami may project to be the Colts before long. First Manning, then wide receiver Reggie Wayne, now Freeney.

Buffalo Bills: High

As the Bills transition to a 4-3 defense, there's one thing they clearly lack: a 4-3 defensive end. A lot of connections have been drawn between the Bills and free agent-to-be defensive end Mario Williams. They have also been linked to South Carolina defensive end Melvin Ingram and others in the 2012 NFL draft.

But what easier way to acquire a sure-fire stud 4-3 defensive end than through a trade? At least you know what you're getting with Freeney, although he is pushing 32.

And with that said, it's clear that the Bills shouldn't overpay for Freeney. Anything more than a second-round pick should be out of their range. 

But can you imagine a front four anchored by defensive tackles Marcell Dareus and Kyle Williams, with Freeney rushing the passer off the edge? 

New York Jets: Very High

This is not a case of the Jets taking a chance on a player with character concerns, because there's never been a doubt about Freeney's character in his life.

In fact, there may not be any singular player available this offseason besides Peyton Manning who offers the level of character that Freeney does. He has been a leader both on and off the field for the Colts throughout his decade in the league ever since being taken with the 11th overall pick in 2002. He even has a charity for the underprivileged and unhealthy. 

Oh, and by the way, the Jets need a pass-rusher pretty badly. They only sacked the quarterback 35 times in 2012, and that being said, how much of a fit is Freeney for what the Jets do? He could have some value in a Jason Taylor role, but what about as a linebacker in the 3-4? He's never played that role consistently in Indy, so it's hard to tell, but if his only role is to get into the opponent's backfield, he can certainly excel and contribute.

The only problem is, in order to make it work, the Jets would likely have to clear out some cap space.

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