Commanders could trade for Grover Stewart
The Washington Commanders are suddenly thin on the defensive front, which was expected to be a strength before the campaign. Javon Kinlaw is currently dealing with a knee injury, and there is just no telling when he will be back. Things are even worse for Daron Payne, who is out for the season with a fractured foot.
Payne was the subject of intense trade speculation before his unfortunate issues. This removes another trade chip from Adam Peters' lap, but it also leaves a gaping hole in the starting lineup that must be filled.
Tim Settle Jr. and Shy Tuttle both played well in Week 8, and Johnny Newton is getting closer to returning. That may not be enough, so adding another capable body is worth considering.
The Indianapolis Colts are open for business, and nothing is off the table. That makes the talented Grover Stewart enticing, though he may not be anything more than a band-aid fix.
Commanders could trade for Tony Pollard
The Commanders are not getting enough from the rushing attack. They came on strong late in Sunday Night Football, but it was another underwhelming display otherwise.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt is on injured reserve, and Jeremy McNichols looks set to join him there shortly after suffering a significant injury. That leaves only Rachaad White and Austin Ekeler, which doesn't exactly strike fear into opposing defenses.
If Adam Peters genuinely believes this season can be salvaged, the Commanders could make a trade to bring in a real difference-maker. And since the Tennessee Titans have already traded Pro Bowl defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons, someone like Tony Pollard could make a huge impact.
Pollard has been a workhorse for the Titans this season, putting up strong numbers. But this team is going nowhere fast, so it wouldn't be surprising to see him moved before the deadline if the price is right.
Commanders could trade for Braden Smith
The Commanders could use the trade deadline to strengthen the protection for quarterback Jayden Daniels. They showed notable improvement against the Philadelphia Eagles, but frailties could still hold them back from a second-half surge in 2026.
Most of the problems center on the left-hand side. Losing the elite presence of Laremy Tunsil would have been a blow for any team, and Washington hasn't filled that gaping hole effectively enough.
Brandon Coleman would be better off inside, which would come at the expense of an underperforming Chris Paul. The Commanders might be content to roll with what they have, but adding someone like Braden Smith might be an intriguing possibility to provide some relief.
Smith is a backup on the Houston Texans right now, but he's performed well during very brief involvement this season. He also has the versatility to play either side, which is always handy.
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