Trade Advice: Lewis/Cotchery for Barlow/Bryant

[thehype]

I've just been offered Jamal Lewis and Cotchery for Kevan Barlow and Antonio Bryant.

 

I actually wanted to hold on to Bryant for a little longer, but does anyone think I should go through with the trade?

[Jimmy Fowler]

It's very tough... I've been musing either way. Here's some thoughts.

 

Cotchery is the number two on a mainly-pass oriented offense. I think this actually helps him. The Jets D isn't amazing, which means they are often passing. Being number two, I think, slightly helps him - Coles is the focus of the coverage. We know Pennington likes him as a target.

 

Antonio Bryant is the first target, and has done well, but this is a team that is doing well offensively. You've got to remember that a healthy Gore means the 49ers can run more, and thus pass less. Although Bryant is number one, Smith likes Eric Johnson and Vernon Davis, amongst others.

 

Jamal Lewis, however, puts up slightly higher numbers than Kevan Barlow. It depends what you're looking for, and how your scoring works. I'd usually estimate Jamal around 75-80 yards a game, but seems rarely to score TDs these days.

 

Barlow is usually limited to around 40 yards a game, and splits carries, but he's had a few goal-line looks.

 

My final opinion is this - it depends if you want risk. If these are just Flex-type players, or #2 WR and backup RB, go for it. Lewis and Cotchery aren't going to have monster games every week, but they'll be more solid. Barlow is very dispensable. Bryant is a good keep, but I think you'd be safer with Lewis and Cotchery.

 

I say go for it... Just.