The Dallas Cowboys already feel a strain at wide receiver. A trade for a proven Tampa Bay Buccaneers pass catcher could be the solution.
James Washington, a free agent signed will be out of action for a significant amount of time . He fractured his foot during training camp and Dallas must now decide how to proceed. Although Michael Gallup was expected to be out for the start of the season, the team now has two starter receivers.
There are many options in free agency. However, there is also the possibility of trading Scotty Miller, Buccaneers wide receiver. Miller was a valuable player in Tom Brady’s offense during the 2020 season. However, he suffered an injury that ended his 2021 season.
Miller will be entering his final season on his rookie contract, so he may be available for cheap, particularly if he is a fringe player in Tampa Bay. Miller will be pushed down the depth chart, considering that the Buccaneers have already brought in Russell Gage and then Julio Jones .
Jerry Jones, Dallas’ owner, has stated publicly that Washington’s injury was a disappointment. However, it wouldn’t surprise anyone if they made a move to improve their depth at the position.
The No. 1 bowling green player, Miller, came out of Bowling Green. Miller’s speed was the best thing about him coming out of Bowling Green. NFL.com reported that Miller had “legitimate track speed” and ran a 4.39 second 40-yard dash on his Pro Day in 2019.
Tampa selected Miller in sixth round of 2019 NFL draft. He was a valuable player in his initial limited opportunities. Pro Football Reference shows Miller, a 25-year old receiver, averaged 15.4 yards per catch in rookie season but had only 13 receptions and 200 receiving yard.
Brady then came to town. Miller was a favorite of the legendary QB, who connected with him 33 times for 501 receiving yard and three touchdowns in 2020. Miller made a few important catches during Tampa’s Super Bowl run, including the touchdown against Green Bay Packers in NFC Championship game.
Miller was not able to return to full health in 2021. He had been suffering from turf toe and was placed on the injured reserve. Miller, an ex-Bowling Green star, played only nine regular season games and caught just five passes for 38 receiving yards.
Cowboys Could Likely Pull Trade Off for Cheap
Miller’s trade timing is solid. Dallas has a need for a receiver, and teams like Tampa Bay know that. However, Miller’s contract situation and his disappointing 2021 season mean that Tampa Bay should not be able ask for much for Miller.
Cowboys get a “WR5” who can still deliver explosive upside with his speed. Gallup and Washington are less under pressure to perform and recover, but Miller has a new platform.
Tampa can cash in on Miller, considering that he might miss the roster. If they did, they would have to make him go. This would likely lead to Miller being taken on the waiver wire. It’s always worth looking into the possibility of getting something in return.
Although it may not seem sensible to trade for a player on the bubble, Dallas should be proactive and not reactive when it comes time to address team needs. Miller could be moved to Dallas with a late-round pick (e.g., the 7th or 6th rounds in 2023).