The Baltimore Ravens or Carolina Panthers may acquire former fifth-round pick linebacker, EJ Speed this season. Bleacher Report published an article stating the Colts could unload on Speed after having a 102-tackle campaign last year and now set to be a free agent in 2025. Indianapolis are entering the third week 0-2 and if they keep losing then there’s no point in keeping some talent that will eventually hit the market next year. Speed probably can’t change around a defense but he’s a “do-it-all” type physical and fast athlete that should draw trade interest.
He already has 21 total tackles and a quarterback hit this year so there’s something there for teams to keep an eye on. There are rosters like the Buffalo Bills who could grab him on a rental basis after losing Matt Milano in training camp and Taron Johnson going down with an injury in week one. Terrel Bernard will be out for the next few weeks so there’s a lack of depth at the linebacker position. Philadephia could be another destination for him after failing to contain the passing attack this year, visibly showing its weakness in their Monday night loss against Atlanta.
However, teams like the Ravens need to add some experience behind Odafe Oweh and David Ojabo. Baltimore’s defense continues to collapse in crucial moments that are now leading them to 0-2 and Kyle Van Noy is not 100%. Some extra depth could help bolster this defense and make those crucial tackles to avoid extra yardage. On the other side, Carolina needs all the help they need to improve their pass rush.
The Panthers lost Derrick Brown who is the heart and soul of the defensive line so someone like Speed could give life back to a defense that continues to struggle.
Ravens, Panthers May Acquire Former Fifth-Round Pick EJ Speed
Other Potential Trade Destinations
Los Angeles Chargers
Jim Harbaugh should probably continue bolstering the depth behind Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa. These two can only go on for so long since later they will demand higher pay. It may be safe to bet on Speed in trading for him in a cheap contract even if it’s two years until they bring in a new established linebacker from the draft. Harbaugh wants a hard-hitting physical defense just as much as he loves the running game.
However, he shouldn’t rely too much on the offense and something about “winning in the trenches” will be something he will consider if he wants Speed.
Dallas Cowboys
America’s team probably has one of the worst pass defenses again despite their week one blowout win against Cleveland. However, they continue to lack in big games like how they crumbled against the Saints after Alvin Kamara was running all over them. Dorance Armstrong and Dante Fowler are no longer so it’s on Eric Kendricks to keep up with the work. Dallas shouldn’t depend on a first-year veteran with the team to carry the pass rush but someone like Speed could bolster it.
He isn’t a superstar but he could be effective in doing everything he can to put this defense scary again. Speed could be that Micah Parsons needs alongside to get those crucial tackles on running plays.
New Orleans Saints
Chase Young is a good start for the defense but guys like Cameron Jordan are getting older. The Saints should think about getting younger talent so they can establish themselves behind the veteran starters and eventually take over. Mashon Lattimore may be on the secondary but he’s an effective ball-hawk in the passing game so someone like Speed should be able to take over at linebacker to help go against the run.
