Making trades has become synonymous with Adam Peters' tenure as general manager. He's had far more hits and misses, but most Washington Commanders fans are expecting the front-office leader to deviate from this form of recruitment during the 2026 offseason.
That didn't stop one NFL analyst from touting another bold move to provide new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones with a legitimate difference-maker in the secondary.
The Commanders have just six picks in the 2026 NFL Draft. Only two are in the first four rounds. Peters won't be parting ways with the No. 7 selection, so unless Washington is willing to sacrifice future capital, adding via the trade market will be extremely difficult unless a bargain can be found.
Commanders' potential trade for Minkah Fitzpatrick gets seal of approval from CBS Sports analyst
Bryan DeArdo of CBS Sports had someone in mind if the Commanders do get back into the trade market. The analyst thought calling the Miami Dolphins to see what it might cost to land five-time Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick would have untold benefits. And if the player is convinced that last season's regression was nothing more than a blip, Washington could be an intriguing destination.
"Would [Minkah] Fitzpatrick agree to be traded to a bad team at this stage of his career? If he were, he'd likely be more inclined to go to Washington as the Commanders are just two years removed from an NFC title game appearance. They also have a proven defensive-minded head coach in Dan Quinn."Bryan DeArdo
The Dolphins are hitting the reset button under their new regime. All-Pro wide receiver Tyreek Hill and Pro Bowl edge rusher Bradley Chubb are among those who have been released. Reports suggest that Miami will be receptive to offers for Fitzpatrick, who remains a top-level performer with some good years ahead of him.
Jones' defensive system will require versatile, physical defensive backs capable of impacting proceedings in all phases. Fitzpatrick would tick that box, and the Commanders have the financial means to absorb the final year of his contract.
There is a chance Fitzpatrick may want a contract extension wherever he joins next. That could prove complicated, and the Dolphins aren't just going to give him away amid their drastic roster overhaul. It's not hard to see why the former Alabama standout would be in high demand, but trading for anyone just doesn't seem all that likely for the Commanders this offseason.
That's not to say Peters won't. Still, after a campaign that mustered only five wins despite a deep playoff run being anticipated, there needs to be a sense of consolidation and long-term planning this time around.
But if Peters does go against the grain with another trade, Fitzpatrick could be a significant addition to the ranks.