The Washington Commanders haven't been shy in making bold trades throughout Adam Peters' second offseason at the helm. He recognized this team was further ahead than anyone expected, with their Super Bowl window open and a rookie quarterback contract to build around. The respected general manager reacted accordingly.
The Commanders don't have much (or possibly any) disposable assets to consider another trade for a proven veteran to help them get over the hump. But if Peters believes there is value to be had somewhere over a college prospect, he won't hesitate to pull the trigger.
Speculation has diminished once again regarding Trey Hendrickson's potential arrival. The All-Pro edge rusher was scathing in his criticism of the Cincinnati Bengals during an appearance on the Pat McAfee Show, but it's been relatively silent from both parties since then. Even so, nothing has changed.
Hendrickson is still looking for a new deal. The Bengals haven't given him one. At some point, this will come to a head.
NFL insider offers Trey Hendrickson theory that should entice Commanders
Peter Schrager from ESPN offered an intriguing possibility that those looking to acquire Hendrickson should be begging for. The insider revealed that the Bengals taking someone like Texas A&M prospect Shemar Stewart at No. 17 overall in the draft would make it more feasible they'd become receptive to offers for Hendrickson. And they'd have 24 hours before Day 2 kicks off to reach an agreement with any willing suitor.
"That's going to be a Thursday situation, based on what Cincinnati does at 17. If they take Shemar Stewart out of Texas A&M at 17, that suddenly makes Trey Hendrickson a lot more easy to get rid of. They can go to bed knowing at least they've got a guy they just drafted, who's going to make way less, that we have the utmost thoughts for."Peter Schrager
The Commanders and several others around the league will be keeping a close eye on developments. If the Bengals take a promising pass-rusher with their first-round pick, it won't take long for their phone to ring regarding Hendrickson's availability. And if the price comes down, Peters will weigh up the risk versus reward.
Hendrickson would instantly upgrade the pass-rushing arsenal at Washington's disposal. He's a high-character guy with elite-level production over the last two seasons (35 sacks). If the Bengals are willing to accept a second-round pick, the Commanders could strike.
They wouldn't get anything like the same player at No. 61 overall, that's for sure. Hendrickson still needs to be paid, which won't be cheap. But Peters has maintained some future financial flexibility with the moves made throughout his second recruitment period so far.
This remains unlikely from Washington's perspective. There are only so many times you can go to the well, and it seems as if the Commanders are tapped out. However, nothing should be completely dismissed, looking at the way Peters has gone about his business lately.
If the Commanders somehow landed Hendrickson, they'd be a trendy Super Bowl pick among the media despite the Philadelphia Eagles residing within their division. But this does look a step too far for the franchise right now.
Watch this space…