TO Trade?

Bob Brookover breaks the story today that the Eagles might not release Terrell Owens outright, but might trade him, with the two teams expressing interest as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the NY Jets.

The turn of events isn't as outlandish or far-fetched as it might seem, save for the weeks of reporting that concluded the Eagles were (had?) to cut TO after the season, but before the March 1 $5 million roster bonus is due.

The move obviously makes sense for the Eagles - they can salvage something - anything even a single late round draft pick for a player they were going to release anyway. (the salary cap hit to the Eagles is going to be the same either way).

From the Jets or Bucs perspective, a trade gets them an impact (though certifiable) player without a bidding war for his services (if there is a market). More overlooked is the fact that Owens' contract for a new team is somewhat cap friendly, especially for a team trying to minimize their downside on Owens. An $8 million one-year deal ($5 million roster bonus + $2.5 million signing bonus + $770,000 base salary) isn't a bad deal for a player of Owens' talent and volatility.

One of the remaining questions, though, is why sports reporters failed to grasp the trade possibilities. Chalk it up to sports reporters not comprehending one of the most important, but overlooked aspects of pro sports - but especially the nfl - the salary cap and financial implications and permutations of player salaries and signing bonues.