NFL Trade Speculation: 7 Players on the Block Most Worth Gambling On

The NFL usually provides interesting philosophical choices for front offices, because generally speaking, they have to gamble.

Whether it's the salary cap, the ever-increasing demand on talent and intelligence, the perpetually shifting homes for coaches and players or character issues, teams are forced to make varying gambles every season.

And nothing is more of a gamble than a trade. First of all, it's different from a mere free agent signing or even a draft selection, because other players are given away in order to acquire the new one(s).

Many times, teams aren't completely sure what they'll get in return either. Is he or isn't he worth it?

This off-season, made more bizarre and protracted than most by the lockout, is still no different.

So let's look at a few names that might be worth a trade.

No. 6: Kevin Kolb, Quarterback

On paper, he's a very untested quarterback. And because of that, he definitely ranks last on this list because I obviously have no idea what his peak as a player can be.

I'll say this: his reputation was damaged considerably by Mike Vick's dramatic comeback. But, therein lies why he might be worth a trade.

Since the Eagles probably will fall short on their demands for Kolb (multiple high draft picks), Mr. Kolb's stock may have fallen to the point where he's worth it.

Teams will still be gambling in scoring a trade for the largely unknown quarterback, but they might be able to get the price low enough to the point where it's worth it.

No. 5: Albert Haynesworth, Defensive Tackle

This could change depending on Haynesworth's legal issues. If the league suspends him for a long period of time, than he'd fall right off this list.

But even if the suspension was only a few games, than he might be worth a trade under these exact circumstances:

1. Washington still pays a considerable part of his contract.

2. Team X that trades for him gives up very little in terms of players.

If those conditions are met, he's worth a gamble, because remember, he was once a dominant player in this league.

And since reports are indicating that he won't be released (and no one expects the Redskins to work out their issues with him), then I'd say he'll be on the trading block if needed.

No. 4: Carson Palmer, Quarterback

He's certainly a gamble. A aging quarterback with a history of a massive injury and who has been on an under-achieving team.

And yet, he still seems like he could be a productive player. His completion percentages are high, he's a veteran who (let's face it) has been through a lot.

(Any quarterback who played on a team whose leading receivers both had reality shows has been through a lot.)

So the argument could be made that he's worth a shot. Considering the alternative for some teams (ahem Cardinals) isn't much better, then why not?

No. 3: Chad Ochocinco, Wide Receiver

The other half of the Bengals trade block.

Other than spamming everyone's twitter (which I actually love but think is hilarious), Mr. Ochocinco could be part of a trade if the Bengals really go deep on their rebuilding process (which could just as easily not happen).

Still, if Ocho does get traded, he would definitely be worth it. I do not for a second doubt that he still has the talent to make a major impact on a game.

And since rookie receivers can be hit or miss, giving up a draft pick might not be the worst deal for a team looking to make a splash in the short term.

No. 2: Vince Young, Quarterback

Kerry Collins retiring should, in theory, have no impact on Vince Young's desire to leave the Titans.

He will not want to play sacrificial lamb for Jake Locker before the latter inevitably takes over the reigns, since he's the latest "franchise quarterback" taken in the first round.

Should a team consider Vince, consider that he's a winner (30-17 career record in the NFL) and that he's clearly not at his full potential.

Naysayers will no doubt declare that he'll never reach his full potential, or that his full potential is his current state: as a running quarterback who'll perpetually be a mediocre passer.

I say differently. There's no reason why Vince can't become a good passer and still retain his other-worldly ability to create time and space with his running. Four words: Just look at Vick.

He's worth a gamble.

No. 1: Vincent Jackson, Wide Receiver

On his career, Jackson is averaging over 17 yards per catch.

That's ridiculous. He's a nightmare for defensive backs.

He's big (6'5" and 240 pounds) and fast. So once he breaks into the secondary, it usually takes more than one guy to cover him. And it definitely takes more than one to tackle him.

Added to that, he's entering his prime. He'll be 28 this year, which is prime age for receivers (who generally take a few years to mature yet still need maximum athleticism).

He's a finite quality in professional football: a genuine deep threat who can still make tough catches.

If he isn't worth a gamble in a trade, I don't know who is.