Somewhat surprisingly, the start of the NFL combine hasn’t launched a ton of rumors as it has in the past. While it seems that the top-tier quarterbacks are likely to stay in their spots leading to a seller’s trade market, it has been a little quiet on the NFL rumor front in Indianapolis.
Wednesday, we got more than a rumor but Andy Isabella lacks the sizzle that some would hope for.
Amidst the Arizona Cardinals announcing extensions for GM Steve Keim and head coach Kliff Kingsbury came news that the team had given Isabella’s agent permission to seek a trade to a new team:
I'm told that Arizona Cardinals WR Andy Isabella has been given permission to seek a trade. Patriots should take a look! #UMass
— Marc Bertrand (@Marc_Bertrand) March 2, 2022
Isabella, an Ohio native, is known for his impressive speed but has not produced much so far in the NFL. The 5’9″ receiver has a combined 31 receptions in his three seasons in the league including only one last season.
According to a report, the Cleveland Browns were interested in trading for Isabella at the trade deadline last year:
Source: #Browns sniffed around the idea of trading for #Cardinals WR Andy Isabella last deadline. Isabella now has permission to seek a trade. I’m told Cleveland is still likely interested.
— Brad Stainbrook (@StainbrookNFL) March 2, 2022
Entering the last year of his rookie contract, seeking a trade where he could be used more often makes sense. The Cardinals have been loaded at receiver during Isabella’s time there but he failed to capitalize when DeAndre Hopkins went down with injury last year.
For the Browns, Isabella’s fit is also a concern. While speed can always be helpful, the team added Anthony Schwartz in the third round last year and also has RB/WR Demetric Felton who adds speed. Depth receivers also are used as key special teams coverage players.
While Cleveland needs receivers and Isabella could come cheap, his primary value to the team would likely be as a returner. Even there, he has only returned nine kicks for Arizona and would compete with Schwartz and Felton.
While it might be exciting to add a player who ran a 4.31 at the combine, the hype may be more than the impact.
