Door swings open for Commanders to trade for irritated star wide receiver

General manager Adam Peters could be a little more aggressive than most thought heading into the 2024 trade deadline. The Washington Commanders are sitting at 5-2 and hold bragging rights atop the NFC East. That could change quickly, so capitalizing on opportunities when they arrive to improve the squad is something those in power should seriously contemplate.

The Commanders are in a strong position to do just that. They have the fifth-most salary-cap space available league-wide at $25.9 million. Peters also has 10 draft picks in 2025 to potentially utilize if the right opportunity presents itself.

One position where the Commanders are reportedly looking for help is wide receiver. The group is performing well enough thanks to Kliff Kingsbury's exceptional offensive concepts and Jayden Daniels' ruthless accuracy. However, getting a proven performer with elite-level production could help this rapidly emerging franchise take the next step.

Washington reportedly inquired about Marquez Valdes-Scantling following his release by the Buffalo Bills according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN. The door has also swung open to test the Carolina Panthers' resolve where Pro Bowl pass-catcher Diontae Johnson is concerned.

Commanders should call the Panthers about Diontae Johnson

Johnson was a non-factor against the Commanders in Week 7, bringing in one reception from three targets for 17 receiving yards. Based on his comments after the game, which placed the blame squarely on his teammates, tensions are starting to build within a team going nowhere fast in 2024.

"I mean, frustrated, but I can't play every position on the field and make every play, you know what I'm saying? So everybody gotta do they job when it comes down to it. So yeah, it's tough, but I just gotta tell myself to keep going regardless."

- Diontae Johnson via Cat Crave

The former third-round pick out of Toledo was acquired via trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason. It didn't cost the Panthers anything more than a late-round pick swap and veteran cornerback Donte Jackson. But with Johnson out of contract next spring and Carolina en route to yet another losing record, getting something back for a player who could leave for nothing in free agency should be considered.

Much will depend on the compensation and whether the Commanders think Johnson is someone who can fit into their improved culture. But from a pure talent perspective, there's a lot to like if the price is right.

Johnson remains one of the league's most polished route runners. He's creating more separation per route than almost anybody, but the Panthers don't have the consistency needed under center to take advantage. That's not the case in Washington if Daniels makes a smooth recovery after getting a week-to-week projection on his rib injury.

The Commanders also have enough spare cash next spring to offer Johnson a contract extension if he proves his worth. Securing his services and placing him opposite Terry McLaurin is a mouth-watering proposition. Carolina might not sell, but it wouldn't cost Peters anything to call and find out one way or another.

This is the time of year when potential contenders prey on weak franchises by trading for some of their top performers. The Commanders were on the wrong side of this for years. That's not the case now after a sensational opening to the campaign.

Whether this results in a move for Johnson or anyone else is up for debate. But nothing can or should be completely ruled out with a fortnight remaining until the trade deadline.

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