Commanders could trade for Greg Newsome II
- Cornerback | Cleveland Browns
The Washington Commanders kicked off their bombshell trade activity with the acquisition of cornerback Marshon Lattimore from the New Orleans Saints. They have a decent quartet heading into the draft, but one more productive performer is only going to help their cause.
Most expect the Commanders to address this need pretty early in the draft. The talent level drops off after the first two rounds, so striking with authority is crucial to avoid missing out entirely. If they opt to wait, examining another trade cannot be completely ruled out with Washington's window for a Super Bowl firmly open.
This would be drastic, especially with the capital available. But the Commanders are swinging for the fences, so dismissing the notion entirely would be foolish.
Adam Schefter of ESPN thought the Cleveland Browns could be willing to move off Greg Newsome II if the right offer came along. The AFC North club is widely expected to take two-way phenom Travis Hunter with the No. 2 pick. He wants to play both wide receiver and cornerback, although it's a contentious issue considering the punishment he'll likely get.
Newsome is coming off a down year by his typically high standards. A fresh start in Washington's outstanding locker room environment could be exactly what he needs to turn the tide.
Commanders could trade for Trey Hendrickson
- Edge Rusher | Cincinnati Bengals
Some around the media are expecting things to come to a head between the Cincinnati Bengals and All-Pro defensive end Trey Hendrickson in the coming days. The Commanders and several others across the league will be watching developments closely.
Hendrickson's media outburst after he was criticized by the Bengals front office didn't see another deal come his way. Both sides seem pretty dug in, so it'll be fascinating to see how things unfold.
Peter Schrager from ESPN thought the Bengals could move off Hendrickson if they acquire a dynamic edge rusher at No. 17 overall. They wouldn't come close to the Pro Bowler's influence, but they'd be cheaper and younger at the very least. This would also give Cincinnati time to examine trade possibilities heading into Day 2.
The Commanders would be wise to keep an eye on developments. They could send their second-round pick (and possibly more) for Hendrickson. But the player still needs to be paid.
That could be the biggest stumbling block. The Commanders maintained some semblance of future financial flexibility this offseason, but they are projected to have $98.64 million in 2026 salary-cap space with just 29 players under contract.
This is the sort of win-now move Peters has done with ruthless conviction in recent months. It's intriguing, but it might be a step too far.