The Washington Football Team came close to acquiring quarterback Matthew Stafford from the Detroit Lions. Instead, Stafford is headed to the Los Angeles Rams. Some believe Washington made a “better” offer than the Rams.
The Lions received a third-round pick from this year’s NFL Draft, a 2022 first-round pick, 2023 first-round pick and quarterback Jared Goff.
Stafford’s preference of playing with Rams head coach Sean McVay tilted the negotiations in favor of LA. It also appears the Rams threw in an extra first-rounder to get the Lions to take on the remainder of Goff’s contract.
However, Washington was in the thick of things along with the Carolina Panthers. According to Albert Breer of MMQB, Washington offered the No. 19 overall pick in this year’s draft along with a third-round pick. The Panthers offered a No. 8 overall pick and a “later pick.”
So how was Washington’s offer much better? It appears Washington offered more than just first and third round picks. According to Washington Football at SI.com, Washington added a defensive starter to their trade package.
That player was not named. But, the mention of a defensive starter being added goes in line with The Athletic’s Ben Standig, who reported Washington’s offer had “more immediate help” than what the Lions received for Stafford.
Regardless, if true, it shows how far Washington is willing to go to land a formidable veteran quarterback. With other options possibly being available such as Deshaun Watson and Matt Ryan, it’s intriguing what players Washington is dangling in addition to draft picks to get their QB?
