The Washington Commanders shattered expectations this season, racking up 12 regular-season wins and securing two road victories in the playoffs before falling in the NFC Championship Game.
Behind rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, who delivered one of the most impressive first-year campaigns in NFL history, Washington is now focused on building a contender around its franchise signal-caller.
Now, an opportunity to make a major splash has emerged.
Shortly after Washington’s season ended in Philadelphia, Cleveland Browns superstar pass rusher Myles Garrett reportedly requested a trade.
The news immediately sent shockwaves across the league, with contenders eyeing a potential move for the dominant edge rusher.
Garrett, a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate, recently addressed speculation about his future – including the possibility of joining the Commanders.
In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Garrett didn’t shy away from discussing Washington as a potential landing spot.
“I think they need a pass rusher,” Garrett said. “I think that’s something that they dearly missed in the playoffs and some of their big games. I feel like I can fill that role.
“But that’s a role that multiple teams need. I feel like I’m not only a pass rusher but I’m the best defensive player in the game and that’s invaluable in itself.”
Garrett’s comments suggest he sees Washington as a team on the rise, but he also made it clear he’s keeping his options open.
Still, if the Commanders aggressively pursue a deal and manage to bring him Washington, their defense could take a massive leap forward.
Washington’s unexpected run to the NFC Championship Game was a testament to its young core, but there are still clear areas for improvement.
The team needs reinforcements along the offensive line, another top-tier wide receiver, and help in the secondary.
But perhaps the most glaring hole is at edge rusher, especially after trading away Montez Sweat and Chase Young midseason.
Landing Garrett would instantly solve that problem.
Pairing him with interior linemen Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen would give the Commanders one of the most dominant defensive fronts in football.
Few offensive lines would be able to contain that trio, and it could transform Washington into a legitimate NFC powerhouse.
Of course, making a deal for Garrett won’t be cheap.
The Browns would likely demand a hefty package of draft picks and possibly key players in return.
Additionally, Garrett’s contract would take up a significant chunk of Washington’s cap space, limiting its ability to address other roster needs.
Still, the Commanders might view this as a rare opportunity worth the risk.
The NFC landscape is shifting – although it’d be foolish to overlook teams with sustainable cores such as the Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers, and Philadelphia Eagles.
If Washington wants to seize its moment, making a blockbuster move for a generational defensive talent like Garrett could be the key.
For now, the Commanders and the rest of the NFL will be watching closely to see how the situation in Cleveland unfolds.
But if Washington decides to go all in, Garrett might just be the missing piece to push them over the top.
What are your thoughts on Garrett being interested in playing for the Commanders? … Will it happen???
