With the trading deadline fast approaching (4 p.m. ET), the New York Jets have explored the possibility of dealing defensive end Sheldon Richardson. They called the Dallas Cowboys to see if they'd be interested, ESPN Cowboys reporter Todd Archer reported.

There's certainly a difference between fielding calls and making them, and this shows the Jets are being proactive with regard to the former NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. The trade is unlikely to happen because the Jets' asking price is too rich for the Cowboys.

It wouldn't make sense to trade Richardson for less than a second-round pick. That may seem low, considering he was the 13th pick in the 2013 draft, but teams are wary of him because of his off-the-field troubles -- two suspensions. Richardson also will be seeking a top-of-the-market contract extension after the season.

This isn't a Jamie Collins situation. The New England Patriots traded their talented linebacker, in part, because he'll be a free agent after the season and they weren't willing to meet his asking price. It's different with Richardson because the Jets have him under contract through 2017. He'll make $8.1 million next year, the amount of his fifth-year option.

The Jets could use the franchise tag in 2018 or let him walk away as a free agent, likely receiving a third-round compensatory pick in 2019.

For now, they might as well keep him for the remainder of the season and re-evaluate at that time. Make no mistake, the trade rumors will be hot and heavy from February to April. The Jets have a lot of money invested in Muhammad Wilkerson and Leonard Williams, and they may see Richardson as a bargaining chip that could bring back a premium draft pick. His trade value could be higher in the offseason than it is now.