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Senseless ESPN NFL expert trade proposal now appears like a stroke of genius

ESPN NFL expert Bill Barnwell is onto something.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images | Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

Ah, what a difference a day makes. As recently as yesterday, a trade proposal suggested by ESPN NFL analyst Bill Barnwell was a cute read that really didn't seem to make much sense for the Los Angeles Rams. Now, after the NFL rumors about backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo's thoughts of retirement, the trade proposal appears to be a stroke of genius.

Barnwell asserts that LA can pry young quarterback J.J. McCarthy from the Minnesota Vikings for the cost of the 13th overall pick. In return, he suggests the Vikings would be willing to offer up quarterback J.J. McCarthy, the Vikings first round pick (18th overall), and the Vikings third round pick (97th overall:

While this proposal is in theory only, the premise that fosters the exchange has suddenly ignited. Los Angeles needs immediate depth at the quarterback position. While he may need more time to develop, McCarthy has real NFL experience, is young, and still has a promising upside.

Jimmy Garoppolo's retirement may force LA Rams to opt for a trade

Even as veteran quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo threatens retirement, the LA Rams have to plan viable alternatives for the quarterback room. Veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford is on a year-by-year basis. And even the most optimistic supporters of backup quarterback Stetson Bennett admit he is only under contract through the end of 2026.

Worse still, he has yet to take an offensive snap in an NFL game.

McCarthy has been obliterated with a series of injuries that have derailed his development. A reboot with Los Angeles seems like an excellent path to restoring his reputation and luster. And the cost itself seems very light, as many fans realize that trading back, even without a defrocked quarterback in the trade, is very much in play.

Yes, general manager Les Snead has Day 3 quarterback options. But they cannot be expected to plug into this offense and perform with any level of success. In fact, LA's past practices indicate that they will never see live NFL action in their rookie season.

Color me intrigued. Without Jimmy G as an option, Snead needs to consider all options to fill the quarterback room. Thankfully, ESPN NFL insider Bill Barnwell may have offered up an ideal solution.

As always, thanks for reading.

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