A source tells NBC and ProFootballTalk’s lead blogger Mike Florio that the Denver Broncos are shopping begrudged wide receiver Brandon Marshall.

While this would come as a huge surprise to many fans due to the fact that Marshall’s injury history, legal history, and recent antics during practice have undoubtedly lowered his value, it is not out of the question for the Broncos to trade Marshall because he has been such a distraction.

Even cornerback Champ Bailey, a team captain, thinks there is only a “50-50” chance Marshall returns to the Broncos in 2009.

I have stated personally that I do not think Marshall is going to be traded in 2009, but that’s just because I think the Broncos should hold out for optimum value.

Obviously, the trust level has been absolutely shattered between the Broncos and Marshall, and the team has to get rid of him, whether it be this season or next.

Earlier this offseason, a Raiders writer named Ramone Brown suggested landing spots for Marshall, and one of those spots was San Francisco in exchange for rookie wide receiver Michael Crabtree.

Then I called it a joke, but now it seems like a solid option for the Broncos, and on multiple levels.

If the 49ers are willing to take on Marshall’s baggage and the unquestioned contract renewal he demands, trading away the also unhappy Crabtree could save a lot of time, and possibly money, for the time being.

Here is my proposed trade:

49ers get:

• WR Brandon Marshall

Broncos get:

• WR Michael Crabtree
• QB Alex Smith

The reason I include Smith is because the Broncos suddenly have a need for reserve quarterbacks as both Chris Simms and Kyle Orton have gone down with injuries.

I do not think the Broncos will trade away Marshall unless they are given the equivalent of a first and fourth round pick, and the Crabtree/Smith combo definitely fits that value gauge as of now.

This is purely speculation, but it is clear that the Broncos are not in Brandon Marshall’s future, and Brandon Marshall is not in the Broncos’ future plans.

So, is it so out of this world to think this could happen?

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