2018 NFL trade deadline: 12 trades that should happen

Raiders trade Jared Cook to Jaguars, Jordy Nelson to Titans, Rashaan Melvin to Panthers

The Oakland Raiders must continue to sell off pieces in the wake of the Amari Cooper trade. Moving Derek Carr would be difficult now for multiple reasons, including his salary, health, and recent play. They could trade Kelechi Osemele, but he’s still an asset on the field and keeping him would be wise.

But veterans Jared Cook, Rashaan Melvin, and Jordy Nelson should all be dealt away as they clear playing time for young prospects. There’s no point in playing them at this point, and each should garner an extra Day 3 pick for Jon Gruden to utilize as he rebuilds the roster.

Moving all three would open about $15 million in rollover space for next year, giving the Raiders almost $100 million in cap space along with a plethora of picks.

Individually, Cook and Nelson would be especially useful as veteran stopgaps for the Jaguars and Titans, respectfully. The Jaguars are down to non-threats David Grinnage and Blake Bell at tight end, while Cook has been quite good when Carr gets him the ball.

Nelson would also net a late-round pick as the Raiders shed his $7.4 million salary. The Titans can easily swallow that, and need someone who can actually catch on the roster. Nelson is old but he’s good enough to play over inconsistent players like Tajae Sharpe.

Melvin is an expensive depth piece, but would be a good fit for Carolina as a third-corner. The Panthers’ defense has been stellar, and Melvin is a better zone fit than man corner. For a late third-day pick, they likely can’t do better.