Cardinals Urged to Trade Key WR to Chargers for Strategic Improvement

The Arizona Cardinals are preparing to host the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 7, and trade discussions are heating up as the November 5 deadline approaches. While the NFL may not generate the same level of trade buzz as the NBA, interest is growing around potential moves.

NFL insider Bill Barnwell recently identified several trades that “make sense,” including a proposal for the Cardinals to send wide receiver Zach Pascal and a seventh-round pick to the Chargers in exchange for a sixth-round pick. Barnwell notes that while Chargers fans might be dreaming of landing a star like Tee Higgins, a more realistic addition could be a different type of receiver like Pascal.

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Although Pascal, 30, hasn’t made much of an impact statistically—failing to record a catch in 37 snaps over six games—he is valued for his blocking ability in the run game. After starting his career with the Colts and contributing to the Eagles’ Super Bowl LVII run, he followed coach Jonathan Gannon to Arizona last year. His playing time has significantly decreased this season, averaging just over six offensive snaps per game compared to more than 14 last year, suggesting he might be better suited for another team.

The Chargers, known for rotating their receivers, could utilize Pascal effectively, especially given their recent win over the Broncos where nine different players caught passes. His additional skills on special teams would make him a solid fourth or fifth receiver as they push for a playoff spot.

For the Cardinals, trading Pascal could be beneficial, as they have several receivers ahead of him on the depth chart, including Marvin Harrison Jr., Michael Wilson, Greg Dortch, and Zay Jones. Additionally, Xavier Weaver’s recent debut could lead to more opportunities for him. While this trade may not address the team’s defensive needs, it could provide a net gain in future draft capital.

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