The 2012 season continues to deliver surprise after surprise. Just a short time ago, Peyton Manning was the prize free agent, courted aggressively by the Denver Broncos. After choosing Denver as his new home, few expected the partnership to be so short-lived. Yet only a few games into the season, the Broncos pivoted dramatically, trading Manning to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for Colin Kaepernick, a 2013 first-round pick, and LaMichael James.
Now, another blockbuster has rocked the league - and it might be even more shocking.
In Detroit, former No. 1 overall pick Matthew Stafford was benched in favor of journeyman Josh Johnson. That decision now seems permanent, as the Lions have shipped Stafford and wide receiver Titus Young to the Philadelphia Eagles. In return, Detroit receives wideouts Jeremy Maclin and Damaris Johnson, along with a 2013 third-round pick.
Stafford, understandably stunned, didn't hold back.
"You'd think putting up 5,000 yards and carrying a team to the playoffs would be enough… but whatever. They'll regret this."
The Lions, however, seem fully committed to their new direction with Johnson under center.
But the trade raised another immediate question: What about Michael Vick?
Vick Feels Abandoned by the Eagles
Vick, who was still holding a top-six quarterback rating at the time of the trade, saw the writing on the wall.
"I guess my time here is done," Vick said after practice. "I gotta thank Philadelphia for giving me a second chance, but I am not a backup."
He had a point. Despite being one of the league's top statistical quarterbacks, Vick was benched for one week in favor of Stafford during a game against the Steelers. It didn't last long.
The Seattle Seahawks, sensing opportunity, immediately reached out to inquire about Vick's availability. Though the Eagles were hesitant - especially given Stafford's injury history - Seattle stunned them by meeting Philadelphia's steep asking price. Just days later, Vick was traded to the Seahawks in exchange for All-Pro safety Earl Thomas, rising linebacker Bobby Wagner, and a first-round pick.
The Seahawks had no regrets.
"See you in the playoffs," the two coaches reportedly wrote to each other in a heated email exchange.
Only time will tell which side gets the better end of these bold trades. But one thing's certain - the 2012 season is anything but ordinary.
