2 reasons the Commanders should absolutely trade for Roquan Smith

1. Smith Would Complete Washington’s Defense

Smith’s arrival would admittedly complicate Washington’s spending budget in terms of extending other players on the defense, but the monster impact he’d have on the defense might just be worth trading for him and signing him to a big contract.

Think about this potential of this defense for a second: Jonathan Allen, Roquan Smith, Kendall Fuller, Chase Young, Montez Sweat and Kam Curl. It’s not crazy to think the Commanders will be able to afford all of those players.

Who knows? Maybe Young and Sweat don’t go for as much money as everyone expected when they were drafted. The bottom line is an elite off-ball linebacker (or lack thereof) is the one thing separating Washington’s defense from the top-tier conversation and Smith is arguably a top-five player at the position.

The former No. 8 overall pick hasn’t missed a game since 2019 and has managed over 100 tackles in each of his four seasons. Smith also has 47 tackles for loss, 14 sacks, 17 QB hits, five interceptions and 17 passes defended on his resume.

Still just 25 years old, Smith is already a two-time All-Pro (second team) and he’s seemingly only going to get better with more experience. And playing in the same front seven as Allen, Young and Sweat will only make his job easier.

Commanders fans have longed for the team to add a legitimate linebacker this offseason. Now one becomes available a month before the season and you’re hesitant because of his expected price? You can’t have your cake and eat it, too.

The Commanders built the backbone of their defense through the draft. Nothing wrong with adding the final (missing) piece via a blockbuster trade.