The Washington Commanders are being touted as a leading frontrunner to trade for 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett from the Cleveland Browns this offseason.
Should general manager Adam Petters make this all-in move for Garrett, the Commanders would be best advised to find a way to only give up draft picks. On the condition that that's not feasible, there are three players not named Jayden Daniels or Terry McLaurin — no executive in their right mind would even entertain the idea of including in a deal — who are absolute must-keeps.
Here are three players the Commanders should trade for Garrett under any circumstances.
Commanders players who should be off limits in potential Myles Garrett trade
Mike Sainristil - Commanders CB
Aside from Daniels, Mike Sainristil was Washington's best rookie in 2024. He came on especially strong late in the season after being drafted at No. 50 overall in the second round. His two interceptions against the Detroit Lions played a significant role in the Commanders' divisional-round triumph.
The former Michigan standout is the best young piece in Washington's secondary, and possibly the entire defense.
Sainristil being included in a potential trade for Garrett would bring back far too many memories of when Washington dealt Kendall Fuller in the 2018 blockbuster deal for veteran quarterback Alex Smith. The cornerback had just completed a breakout campaign and was in line to be a featured defensive back for the team moving forward. The Commanders can't make that mistake again.
Frankie Luvu - Commanders LB
When it comes to untouchable veterans on Washington's defense, the first name that should come to mind is Frankie Luvu. The 2018 undrafted free agent experienced a breakout season in 2024, his first year with the Commanders after spending the first six years of his professional career with the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers.
Luvu racked up 99 tackles, eight sacks, one interception, a forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries during the regular season en route to being named second-team All-Pro. More importantly, the dynamic linebacker was the emotional heartbeat of Washington's front seven.
The Washington State product's impact goes far beyond the stat sheet. Luvu gets in opponents' heads and embraces the villain role. He's not a player the Commanders can afford to lose.
Johnny Newton - Commanders DT
The final player who the Commanders should hang onto at all costs in the event of a Garrett deal is one who stands to benefit greatly from his possible arrival. Johnny Newton had an up-and-down rookie year after being taken No. 36 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft but seemed to settle down as he found a consistent role as a starter.
Newton should be a hot candidate for a Year 2 leap given the uncertain status of veterans Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne. He is the future of Washington's defensive line as it currently stands. If the Commanders trade for Garrett, he's the type of player they should want as an ideal running-mate.
With Garrett drawing double teams on almost every down, Newton could have a potential Pro Bowl upside.