Teams are going to have to pony up, both financially and with draft capital, if they want to add DK Metcalf.
The Seahawks are asking for first- and third-round picks for their star receiver who requested a trade, while Metcalf wants a new deal worth at least $30 million per season, according to The Athletic.
Several teams reportedly have inquired about the 27-year-old, with ESPN reporting Seattle had already discussed Metcalf with other teams before his demand.
“We will do what’s best for the Seahawks,” a source told the outlet.
Seattle had a passing of the torch last season with former first-round pick Jaxon Smith-Njigba becoming Geno Smith’s prime target in the Seahawks’ passing attack.
Smith-Njigba had 137 targets, 1,130 yards and six touchdowns compared to 108, 992 and five for Metcalf.
The five scores marked the fewest of Metcalf’s six-year career, and he failed to eclipse 1,000 receiving yards for the first time in three seasons.
Metcalf wants to land with a contender, per ESPN, and this trade request could be a sign that he wants to be a team’s clear No. 1 option and also be paid like one.
The 2019 second-round pick has one year and $18 million left on the three-year extension he previously signed.
If he’s able to get it, a $30 million average would make him one of the game’s top-paid receivers.
The Patriots are desperate for a playmaker for emerging quarterback Drake Maye and could make sense as a trade partner, though giving up the No. 4 pick may be a little rich.
The Packers need a No. 1 receiver for Jordan Love, but they typically are not a team to trade premium assets for players.
The Chargers could use a receiver to complement rookie star Ladd McConkey and own the No. 22 pick, though head coach Jim Harbaugh usually employs run-first approaches.
Inquiring teams will also have to weigh whether to give up the draft capital for Metcalf or to pursue free agent Davante Adams, who will only require money.
Tee Higgins could be available should the Bengals not offer a long-term deal of his liking, but that may last until the summer since the team has until July 15.
If the Seahawks do trade Metcalf, they will need to add a receiver either in free agency or the draft since they also released veteran Tyler Lockett on Wednesday.
Seattle went 10-7 last season and finished second in the NFC West, but missed the playoffs in coach Mike Macdonald’s first year replacing Pete Carroll.