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7 trade deadline deals Commanders could make as Adam Peters' grip slips

Could late deals be done?
ByDean Jones
Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters
Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
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Commanders could trade Mike Sainristil

The Washington Commanders were expecting big things from cornerback Mike Sainristil. Fans were less optimistic, but the presence of defensive coordinator Daronte Jones was enough to provide some optimism entering Year 3 of his professional career.

Sainristil fluffed his lines. He lacked positional sense and was picked on by opposing offenses. Publicly challenging him didn't work, and he has now been sent to the sidelines.

The Michigan product has played just one defensive snap over the last two contests. Teams have reportedly called about Sainristil, but the Commanders are apparently not going to give up on the defensive back just yet.

But everyone has a price. And Sainristil could use a change of scenery right now.

While Sainristil is catching the eye on special teams, he'll want to play. And if someone like Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald, who worked with him at the Wolverines, comes calling, that would be difficult to turn down.

Commanders could trade for Brian Thomas Jr.

As mentioned previously, buying at the trade deadline is a tough sell now. If the Commanders had beaten the Los Angeles Rams, it would have been more justifiable. But they shot themselves in the foot too many times.

Even so, the Jacksonville Jaguars are devoid of picks after blockbuster trades for Jordan Davis, Jessie Bates III, and Davon Godchaux almost in one fell swoop on the eve of the trade deadline. If they decide to recoup assets, then wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. could be on the move.

The Jaguars haven't budged yet, reportedly wanting a second-round pick for the underperforming pass-catcher. Teams are reluctant to meet that asking price, but his previous connection to Jayden Daniels makes Thomas an intriguing option for Washington.

Thomas could be a long-term piece of the puzzle. Aside from third-round rookie Antonio Williams, nobody else in Washington comes with that, so it makes sense to a certain extent.

Commanders could trade Dorance Armstrong Jr.

Adam Peters has admitted to saving money for upcoming contract extensions. But after giving Odafe Oweh a $96 million deal, the Commanders have almost no chance of keeping K'Lavon Chaisson and Dorance Armstrong Jr. happy.

Based on performances and upside, the Commanders should be more inclined to pay Chaisson over Armstrong right now. And that could make the Kansas State product expendable before the deadline if the right offer comes along.

Armstrong was in the middle of a breakout campaign last season before a torn ACL dented his growth. It took a long time to get back, and he's still working his way back to some of his old form.

Dan Quinn likes Armstrong. They have a close relationship that began during their time together on the Dallas Cowboys, but the NFL is a business. If Peters can get a decent offer for the player, he should consider it, which will give Joshua Josephs more opportunities to flourish.

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