While the NFL action has slowed down a bit into the offseason, there is still plenty going on behind the scenes. Here are some of the top pieces of news and notes for Feb. 22, 2021.
Eagles Trade QB Carson Wentz To Colts
In a somewhat unsurprising move this past week, the Philadelphia Eagles traded former first-round pick, quarterback Carson Wentz, to the Indianapolis Colts for a third-round pick and a conditional second-round pick that can turn into a first-rounder.
The Eagles had been shopping Wentz since the season ended last month. Even after firing head coach Doug Pederson, Philadelphia didn't feel like keeping Wentz. Wentz's contract also wasn't the best for the long-term future of the franchise.
Wentz has regressed mightily over the past few seasons, and most have blamed Pederson and his porous offense without former offensive coordinator and current Colts head coach, Frank Reich. He had his most successful season in the NFL with Reich calling his plays and will now get to experience that in Indianapolis. It will be an excellent opportunity for a fresh start for the former first-round pick.
With the retirement announcement of quarterback Phillip Rivers, the Colts were in search of a new signal-caller. They could've drafted one, and still may do so, but pairing Wentz with Reich could be a quick recipe for success for a franchise ready to compete for a title.
The Colts are ripe with young talent, and if Wentz can find what he had his first few seasons in Philadelphia, they could go to the next level in the AFC.
Big Ben May Not Be Back In Steel City in 2021
Pittsburgh Steelers General Manager Kevin Colbert has reportedly looked at moving on from franchise quarterback Ben Roethlisberger this offseason.
Roethlisberger and Colbert met last week, and based on those discussions, Roethlisberger may call the signals elsewhere in 2021.
Big Ben will cost the Steelers $41.25 million of their cap space in 2021. That is the largest cap hit of any player in the NFL next season. It is hard to justify that big of a hit for a 38-year-old quarterback with clearly diminishing skills.
The Steelers currently sit $30.6 million over the cap for 2021, and if they cut Big Ben before the new league year, they can save $19M.
It seems that, at minimum, the Steelers would need to restructure Roethlisberger's contract if they did elect to keep him around in 2021.
NFL Hall of Famer Wins College Coaching Debut
NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders made his college football coaching debut this past weekend. His Jackson State Tigers rolled to a 53-0 win over NAIA Edward Waters.
Star quarterback Jalon Jones tossed three touchdowns and ran it in for another as Jackson State scored touchdowns on its first three drives and never looked back.
Jackson State took the opening kickoff of the second half, then scored just three minutes later to extend their lead to 38-0.
Sanders got the Gatorade bucket shower after the final whistle. Next up for Sanders and Jackson State is their Southwest Athletic Conference opener next weekend in Jackson against Mississippi Valley State.
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