The NFL never rests. Things are always cooking behind the scenes, as evidenced once again by a blockbuster trade on Saturday night that shook the league to its foundations.
And it could possibly benefit the Washington Commanders in more ways than one.
In a stunning development, the New York Giants traded three-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence II to the Cincinnati Bengals. The AFC North club assessed the landscape and decided they weren't going to get a better player with the No. 10 overall selection, sending their high-end first-rounder to MetLife Stadium to get this deal over the line.
While the compensation is extraordinary, Lawrence is an exceptional player. He's caused the Commanders nightmares since entering the league in 2019, so the likes of Sam Cosmi and Chris Paul won't exactly be shedding any tears about not having to go up against the interior force twice a season.
Bombshell Dexter Lawrence trade could work out well for the Commanders
This also gives the Giants two top 10 selections. They sit at No. 5 overall, and they now have the Bengals' pick at No. 10. That increases their options considerably, and one NFL analyst believes the formula is pretty obvious.
During an appearance on ESPN Radio, draft guru Matt Miller got the sense that the G-Men would now spend the No. 5 pick on a defensive prospect, with the Ohio State duo of linebacker Sonny Styles and safety Caleb Downs strongly under the microscope. With their new selection, the analyst thought Arizona State pass-catcher Jordyn Tyson is a viable option, especially considering how much time the Giants have spent with him in recent days.
They could also spend the selection on an offensive lineman. There will be several intriguing options available, which would also assist quarterback Jaxson Dart. But for the Commanders, this trade could possibly put them one step closer to having a shot at Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love.
Most around the league thought there were two hurdles standing between the Commanders and Love, barring another team surging up the order with a trade. The Tennessee Titans were one of them at No. 4. The Giants were another at No. 5. That might still be the case, but it seems less likely now.
The Commanders won't be sad to see Lawrence go. They will be even happier about this transaction if it gives them a chance to select Love, who is arguably the best overall prospect in this class.
There is a long way to go and many unknowns ahead, but the stars may be aligning for Washington after all.
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