Commanders connected to bold trade for Pro Bowl star that could backfire badly

"The Washington Commanders threw their chips into the middle this offseason with two daring trades that surged them into win-now mode. Adam Peters was correct to take bigger risks, but the general manager should also know that it hasn't paid off. Peters stood pat at the 2025 trade deadline. Fans weren't expecting fireworks, especially regarding incomings. It was surprising to see no departures, but either no offers arrived or the Commanders didn't receive any acceptable ones."

"Washington is keeping faith with the current personnel. But it's hard not to look at their current state and think massive changes aren't coming during the offseason. The Commanders have more than $84 million in projected salary-cap space, which could increase if contract restructures and early releases are agreed upon. They only have six selections in the 2026 NFL Draft, but that didn't stop one analyst from naming them as the ideal trade destination for a Pro Bowl wide receiver."

"If the Jaguars elevate [Travis] Hunter's status once he's healthy and [Jakobi] Meyers builds a strong rapport with quarterback Trevor Lawrence, [Brian] Thomas could be expendable. Regardless of how the 2025 season ends for Thomas, he would draw several suitors because of his impressive first year in the league. Teams will be more than willing to trade a first-rounder and more to feature him in the passing attack."

Adam Peters executed two bold offseason trades to push the Washington Commanders into a win-now posture while accepting greater risk for immediate improvement. Peters made no moves at the 2025 trade deadline; no incoming players arrived and no departures occurred. The team retains current personnel but likely faces offseason roster changes. Washington projects over $84 million in salary-cap space, potentially rising through restructures and early releases. The Commanders hold only six selections in the 2026 draft. An analyst identified Jaguars receiver Brian Thomas Jr. as a possible trade target given his LSU connection to quarterback Jayden Daniels and shifting Jacksonville personnel.

Read at Riggo's Rag