In ESPN writer Rich Cimini’s latest look at the New York Jets, he focused on defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson as a player that could be on the trade block. Thanks to Richardson playing like he wants to go somewhere else and the Jets not utilizing his talents properly, the marriage looks doomed to eventually split, either via trade or him eventually hitting free agency.

The Baltimore Ravens could and should be interested in Richardson either direction as current defensive tackle Brandon Williams looks like he might hit the open market this offseason. If Williams is allowed to go into free agency, it’s likely that Baltimore wouldn’t be able to afford him, giving the Ravens an immediate need at defensive tackle.

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With Richardson, they would get a dominant defender with only one year left on his contract at more than $8 million. However, the trade would likely require Richardson to sign an extension, potentially putting him at a cheaper rate than Williams would be after a down year.

Cimini mentions that the Jets could start out wanting a first-round selection for Richardson, but would likely have to accept a third-round pick instead if they wanted to make the move happen. With a third-round compensatory pick that is now tradeable, Baltimore has the much-needed ammunition to make a deal work here.

While some might balk at the idea of giving up a draft pick for a player that is already on the outs with his current team and is set to be a free agent in 2018. However, letting go of a 2017 NFL draft pick would guarantee them one of the better defensive tackles in the league when healthy and motivated and a change of scenery is likely all that is needed to refresh Richardson’s mood.

Richardson has a high ceiling if properly used and motivated. In 2014, Richardson amassed eight sacks along with 66 tackles and a forced fumble. For his four-year career, Richardson has a combined 18 sacks, 240 tackles and five forced fumbles. On the stat sheet, that puts him miles ahead of Williams in production.

I wouldn’t think it was the Ravens’ first choice, but it presents an interesting back up option if Williams does indeed leave for free agency.