Not every general manager in sports wins fans over with their strategic insight. Former New York Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum has become better known for his surprising, sometimes puzzling trade proposals as an analyst for ESPN. His recent suggestion that the Cleveland Browns trade Myles Garrett to the Detroit Lions for Jahmyr Gibbs and multiple draft picks left fans scratching their heads. Inspired by Tannenbaum’s unique ideas, here are five wild trades he might just approve.
1. Jaycee Horn to the Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are pushing toward a playoff run, thanks to standout players like Derrick Henry and MVP-hopeful Lamar Jackson. But with their struggling secondary giving up too many passing yards, the Ravens might look for reinforcements.
Enter Tannenbaum’s proposal: the Ravens send Rashad Bateman, a first-round pick, a second-round pick, and a fourth-round pick to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for cornerback Jaycee Horn. The Panthers, needing more offensive tools for quarterback Bryce Young, could use this draft capital to rebuild.
2. Maxx Crosby to the Green Bay Packers
The Packers recently committed to Jordan Love and are set on bringing a Super Bowl back to Green Bay. While their offense shows promise, the defense could use some firepower. In Tannenbaum fashion, this trade would have the Packers offering two first-round and two third-round picks to the Raiders for elite pass rusher Maxx Crosby.
With the Raiders facing a challenging season, this deal could initiate a full rebuild in Las Vegas, while Green Bay gets a defensive weapon to elevate their roster.
3. Jonathan Taylor to the Washington Commanders
Washington’s offense, led by Jayden Daniels, has become an appealing destination for players, and adding an All-Pro running back would stoke their competitive fire even more.
In a Tannenbaum-inspired trade, the Colts send Jonathan Taylor to Washington in exchange for Luke McCaffrey, a first-round pick, a third-round pick, and a fifth-round pick. With the Colts already benching Anthony Richardson and moving toward a rebuild, Taylor’s move could reshape Washington’s offensive core.
4. Travon Walker to the Houston Texans
Quarterback CJ Stroud has had ups and downs, but the Texans’ defense has kept them competitive. To solidify that strength, the Texans might consider trading for an edge rusher like Travon Walker.
In this scenario, Tannenbaum would propose the Texans offer the Jaguars Stefon Diggs, two second-round picks, and two fourth-round picks. While Diggs might be a free agent soon, the Jaguars could use their franchise tag to keep him for Trevor Lawrence, making this trade mutually beneficial within the AFC South.
5. Christian Gonzalez to the Kansas City Chiefs
With the trade deadline nearing, the Chiefs are in full buyer mode, and cornerback Christian Gonzalez could be the perfect addition. The Patriots, however, would likely laugh off initial offers.
But in true Tannenbaum style, Kansas City’s proposal would include a blockbuster four first-round picks and three second-round picks. This massive offer might finally entice the Patriots, giving the Chiefs a long-term star to boost their secondary.
