Commanders could trade K'Lavon Chaisson
Trading anyone would be giving up. That's a contentious issue among fans, but general manager Adam Peters has to think about the bigger picture, with the long-term project under significant scrutiny.
If, and it's a big one, the Washington Commanders opt to sell before the deadline, Peters might look to shed some expiring contracts. Not everyone will be extended, so getting something back now could ensure they don't lose good players for nothing when the time comes.
That brings K'Lavon Chaisson under the microscope.
The edge rusher has been a fantastic addition to the Commanders this season. Chaisson bet on himself with a one-year deal, believing another strong campaign could help him get even more on his next deal. He's well on his way to that, so it depends on whether Peters wants to pay him.
If not, the Commanders could look to trade Chaisson. Unlikely, but there would probably be interest.
Commanders could trade for Jackson Powers-Johnson
The Commanders have some problems at center, to say the least. Adam Peters' blind faith in Nick Allegretti came back to haunt him, and with Lucas Patrick in concussion protocol, it'll be either the underperforming veteran or sixth-round rookie Matt Gulbin against the New York Giants on Thursday Night Football.
Washington is in a tough spot, which could have been avoided.
Releasing Tyler Biadasz caused a ripple effect that is being felt in the worst possible way. The Commanders could go with what they have and hope for the best, but if Peters can get someone like Jackson Powers-Johnson at a good price, it's worth considering.
Powers-Johnson is on the fringes with the Las Vegas Raiders, but he could definitely help the Commanders. He's got some useful production at center, stemming from his time in college at Oregon. He's also under contract through 2027, which is just $2.87 million on the salary cap.
Commanders could trade Stefon Diggs
Jayden Daniels' wide receiving corps is significantly depleted. Terry McLaurin and Dyami Brown are both on injured reserve. Treylon Burks is also working through a foot injury, but head coach Dan Quinn is hopeful it won't be long-term.
It's an all-hands-on-deck situation. Maybe an incoming trade would help, but the Commanders have just two wins to their name this season.
Keeping faith with the options available might be the smartest play. But if a team desperate for receiver help comes calling for Stefon Diggs, could Adam Peters be swayed by a substantial offer?
Diggs cut a frustrated figure against the Los Angeles Rams, reportedly getting into it with offensive coordinator David Blough about his lack of targets. Whether friction is building is debatable, but it would need to be a big offer from any receiver-needy team for the Commanders to part ways with the Maryland product.
If the Commanders have dependable options, it's a different story. But alas, they do not.
