With the NFL offseason suddenly gaining steam, Marquez Valdes-Scantling is creating somewhat of a buzz about possible landing spots. Valdes-Scantling displayed his ability as a deep threat and reliable target in an outstanding stretch with the Green Bay Packers. Rumors begin to swirl, and now let’s look at the potential landing spots for this playmaking wide receiver with three AFC teams (including his former) being possibilities.
Potential Landing Spot 1: Kansas City Chiefs
The Reunion Narrative
Given that, nothing would be a more intriguing storyline than Marquez returning home to the Kansas City Chiefs. He has experience with the Packers, acquiring their knowledge as he develops a skill set that works alongside franchise quarterbacks. Playing alongside Patrick Mahomes makes the Chiefs an enticing landing spot for Valdes-Scantling to make an immediate impact.
Why It Makes Sense
Offensive Scheme:The Chiefs have arguably the fastest offense in football and Valdes-Scantling would fit right into that scheme. His field-stretching asset and mismatch is a major reason to believe he could thrive alongside Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce.
Not a Stranger: The 40-yard-deep target has familiarity facing the Chiefs from his time in the NFC, helping him to understand some of what plagues and aids those inside your regular conference cage. His move to Kansas City would represent an opportunity to compete in the Chase category and be around well-known faces.
Championship Contention:The Chiefs are an annual favorite for the Super Bowl. That could improve Valdes-Scantling’s odds of signing with the team — often a big draw for free agents is the chance to win a title.
Possible Landing Spot 2: Baltimore Ravens
A Need for Speed
Valdes-Scantling’s skill set is heavily needed by the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens have a dynamic offense with Lamar Jackson at the helm, which can prey on deep threats.
Why It Makes Sense
Deep Threat:Ravens have needed a new vertical threat to unleash in the team’s run-heavy scheme. Having Valdes-Scantling’s pace would give Jackson another weapon and stretch the field for both passing, viewing, and running.
One Trait of Offensive Versatility:Valdes-Scantling is capable of running a wide array of routes on any given play so he would be able to adapt well to the Raven’s complementary offensive scheme. His being on the field could free up Mark Andrews as a favorable matchup, which will only help that whole group.
Valdes-Scantling now gets a chance to grow with one of the game’s young quarterbacks in Jackson. This a promising landing spot considering the success of Baltimore’s coaching staff pivots to position-independent skill and trust in giving young talent an opportunity.
Option 3: New England Patriots The oh-so-obvious landing spot.
Rebuilding the Offense
Valdes-Scantling could be just the type of player to help bring the New England Patriots out of their rebuilding phase. Mac Jones is in the middle of his second year and will surely need a target he can count on this season.
Why It Makes Sense
Youthful Energy: Valdes-Scantling has the speed and youthful energy that could revitalize a Patriots receiving corps. He could come in and complement the more established veterans like Jakobi Meyers, which would theoretically give you a well-rounded attack.
Perfect Fit with Mac Jones: As he continues to grow, so will his need for a dependable deep target. Jones likes to push the ball downfield while Valdes-Scantling is uniquely talented at separating on deep passes; so right there, strike up a prominent connection.
A Fresh Start: With a fresh new start within the likes of the Patriots and their storied franchise, Valdes-Scantling gets an opportunity to reinvent himself. He might have to hone his technique and realize his full potential through the team culture and coaching.
And it would be a very exciting place for Marquez Valdes-Scanting to land as he considers what his future may hold elsewhere this offseason. The Kansas City Chiefs jump out because of their high-powered offense and championship potential. At the same time, there are intriguing opportunities for him to succeed with both the Baltimore Ravens and the New EnglandPatriots.
Wherever Valdes-Scantling ends up, that speed/skill combo will have little trouble doing damage. The next chapter for Valdes-Scantling is one that fans are anticipating this offseason.
