It's no secret that the Washington Commanders are on the lookout for another wide receiver. Speculation around who that'll be remains high, and even though general manager Adam Peters has resisted the urge to dip into the trade market so far, it shouldn't be completely off the table.
Peters swung for the fences with trades for cornerback Marshon Lattimore, wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr., and left tackle Laremy Tunsil. The Commanders regressed considerably, but one could argue two out of the three moves paid off.
The front-office leader has built the right way this offseason. But given the dire need for improvement in 2026, Peters should consider a proven performer on the trade market if the price is right.
The Commanders are confident in their young options. Even so, Terry McLaurin is the only wideout with serious credentials, and this group won't exactly strike fear into opposing defenses as presently constructed. But if they can find another difference-maker, the landscape would shift dramatically.
With this in mind, here are six intriguing trade possibilities the Commanders could potentially target if Peters goes down this route.
Wide receiver trades the Washington Commanders should consider to boost their bounce-back hopes
Commanders could trade for Calvin Ridley
The Tennessee Titans used the No. 4 overall pick on Carnell Tate. They signed Wan'Dale Robinson in free agency. There was an emphasis on youth throughout their first offseason under new head coach Robert Saleh, which should help No. 1 pick Cam Ward build on his encouraging rookie flashes in Year 2 of his professional career.
What that means for Calvin Ridley's future is anyone's guess. He's got the experience and veteran leadership Tennessee might value highly during this transitional period. But after an injury-hit 2025 campaign, the Titans may look to get something back in return.
The Commanders could use someone with Ridley's route expertise and dependability as a pass-catcher. There are a couple of concerns, most notably his financial outlay, which will count almost $30 million against the salary cap in 2027, and his age, as he will be 32 during the upcoming season.
Commanders could trade for Rashod Bateman
While the Baltimore Ravens might not be willing to give up on Rashod Bateman, a massive effort is needed to turn the tide after his disappointing 2025 campaign. The 2021 first-round pick caught 19 passes for just 224 receiving yards and two touchdowns, which isn't what the AFC North club had in mind after extending the pass-catcher.
Bateman's contract wasn't exactly earth-shattering, so it's pretty tradable. On his best day, the Minnesota product is a superb deep threat who has the tools to open things up underneath. However, the consistency was nowhere near the level required last season, and Baltimore cannot wait around.
Perhaps a fresh start might be the best-case scenario for Bateman. And a short trip across the DMV to Washington is a potential option.
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