This is assuming we would receive at least a 1st round pick and various mid round picks

1. APs stock is high right now. Can AP be an elite back until 35? Probably. However, I think we need to trade him while he still holds value. The Patriots do it all the time where they trade an aging veteran a year or 2 early opposed to a year late when they have no value. By acquiring picks we could set ourselves up to be a dynasty.

2. I don't see the drop off in production between AP and Jerick McKinnon being as big as people think. What McKinnon lacks in power running and breaking tackles, he makes up in pass catching ability and ball security. McKinnon hS very similar measurables to Devonta Freeman and I think could be a stud if given the chance. Is he the next AP? No. Could he be a serviceable back and make a few pro bowls? I think so.

3. McKinnon is the more ideal back to pair with Teddy. He can run out of the shot gun, is an excellent receiver, can block, secures the ball, and would keep defenses guessing more. With AP, our offense is too predictable and he's a non factor on screens and in the flat. AP isn't a good option on 3rd down. Third and short scenarios could be filled by Zach Line and Asiata or through a late round draft pick.

4. The NFL is now a passing league. Sure, AP is fun to watch and puts up eye popping stats, but he's also a liability fumbling the ball, especially late in games. He also runs for 1 0r 2 yards far too often on 1st and 2nd down putting us in 3rd and long scenarios. He goes for the home run too often and makes it hard on the offense. What is the last team that made it to the Super Bowl with a RB putting the team on his shoulders? RBs are complementary pieces to a passing attack. They're used to set up the pass, not be the focal point of the offense. NFL teams know this. Talented RBs are falling later and later in the draft because of this. Teams don't value running backs like they used too.

5. The 'return on investment' would be greater if we spread out the money we give to AP on more important positions. We have too many eggs in the RB basket and I think we would be just fine with a running back by committee. RBs also get injured frequently which has led most teams to the RBBC format. AP is on the wrong side of 30 and years of an aggressive running style will catch up to him at some point.

6. The picks we would get in the trade would help fill the RB void as well as strengthen other positions to help build a dynasty in the same manner the patriots, Seahawks, and packers have. And that's through the draft.