The Washington Commanders were quietly fancied by some to make progress this season. It was a memorable offseason with wholesale changes across the board under the new regime. Expectations grew as a result, although most fans were adopting a wait-and-see approach regarding the football product.
After just four games, everyone believes. The Commanders are 3-1 after a remarkable start to the campaign. Energy is high in the building and across the fanbase. Those around the media believe anything is possible with rookie phenom Jayden Daniels under center.
This incredible initial impression could lead Adam Peters to a slight shift in his approach. The general manager will still be methodical and keep the future in mind, but going a little bolder could enhance the team's chances of reaching the postseason and potentially winning the NFC East in the first year under new head coach Dan Quinn.
With this in mind, here are five trades the Commanders could make to enhance their playoff aspirations in 2024.
Trades the Commanders could make to bolster playoff hopes in 2024
Commanders could trade for Azeez Ojulari
Trades between division rivals don't happen a lot. Adam Peters doesn't care for that too much - he's already made two with the Philadelphia Eagles during his first few months as Washington Commanders general manager.
The Commanders allowed Philadelphia to move up in the 2024 NFL Draft for defensive back Cooper DeJean. They also shipped wide receiver Jahan Dotson to the Eagles after the former first-round selection fell out of favor. If there is a good deal to be had, Peters won't hesitate regardless of whether it's with someone Washington sees twice a season or not.
If the Commanders want to boost their pass-rushing options to increase their hopes of making the playoffs, then Azeez Ojulari is someone who could be available before the trade deadline. The explosive edge force hasn't reached the heights of his rookie campaign over the last three years. He's out of contract this spring, so there is no long-term commitment to the player if he cannot raise performance in a different environment.
Peters might be content with what he has right now. But the Commanders are further ahead than anyone anticipated, so a bold trade couldn't be completely dismissed if the same trend continues.
Commanders could trade for Diontae Johnson
The Washington Commanders are said to be examining wide receivers to potentially acquire before the trade deadline according to reports. Those in power firmly believe they have a genuine franchise quarterback in No. 2 pick Jayden Daniels following his historic start to the season. Getting him everything required to take that next step and lead this storied organization into the postseason is the next challenge.
Several veterans will be available between now and the trade deadline. That's always the case every year and is unlikely to stop this time around. Something that could lead the Carolina Panthers to become receptive to offers for Diontae Johnson if their losing run continues.
Johnson was acquired by the Panthers earlier this offseason via trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers. He started slowly but came to life once head coach Dave Canales benched quarterback Bryce Young. He's an elite route-runner who can create yards after the catch. He's not a physically imposing individual, but his ability to generate separation is something that should fit into Kliff Kingsbury's offensive strategy seamlessly.
Carolina is rebuilding, but those in power could make a concerted effort to keep Johnson around. If something changes in the coming weeks, the Commanders should seriously consider the possibility.
Commanders could trade for Haason Reddick
When the New York Jets traded for Haason Reddick, it was seen as a bold move that could take this promising young defense up another notch. Unfortunately for the franchise, it couldn't have gone much worse.
Reddick is holding out for a new deal that doesn't seem forthcoming as things stand. There are conflicting reports about whether he was promised one or not before the trade occurred. The edge rusher has accumulated millions in fines and is reportedly sacrificing around $850,000 for every game missed. He's holding his ground, but this situation should conclude in some capacity soon.
The Jets could work something out with Reddick. They could also cut their losses and dispose of this problem while they still can. Although Reddick's reputation has taken a hit throughout this saga, his pass-rushing prowess is proven.
Washington could use another explosive edge presence despite Dorance Armstrong Jr. finally showing signs of life in Week 4. Reddick is an option, but general manager Adam Peters must decide whether to pay the player upon his arrival in this scenario.
Otherwise, he's already shown a willingness to stay away until the money comes.
Commanders could trade for Jonathan Jones
The Washington Commanders' defense made some encouraging strides in Week 4. It looked as if more of the same poor production was on the way after a subpar showing in the first quarter. However, defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. made the adjustments needed to spearhead a mini-renaissance from his talented yet underperforming unit.
This is the standard Washington's defense must live up to moving forward. There are still concerns that could hold them back. We've already spoken about the pass rush, but the cornerback unit could also use an added injection of quality if the Commanders want to make the surprising playoff dreams a reality.
Jonathan Jones is a name to consider. The talented defensive back could be deemed surplus to requirements by the New England Patriots despite an outstanding start to the season. This is a rebuilding team looking to navigate the post-Bill Belichick era successfully. Parting ways with the former undrafted free agent out of Auburn is something they'd likely consider if the right opportunity comes along.
Jones is out of contract next spring, so the Commanders must decide if this is someone worthy of a contract extension at 31 years old. Having some added incentive over the second half of 2024 only sweetens the pot.
Commanders could trade for Davante Adams
As previously mentioned, the Commanders are reportedly looking to add another wide receiver before the 2024 trade deadline. This needs to be the right package that works for the team as part of Adam Peters' long-term vision for the future, but their incredible start to the campaign means striking while the iron is hot could be something to consider.
There appears to be a situation brewing between the Las Vegas Raiders and Davante Adams. Head coach Antonio Pierce said certain players made business decisions after they were beaten by the Carolina Panthers in Week 4. The All-Pro pass-catcher was missing from the lineup last weekend, with some speculating that this relationship between the player and the franchise has gone past the point of no return.
The Raiders won't be giving Adams away. He's still one of the league's best wideouts and can route up even the most elite cornerbacks at will when in the mood. Perhaps a fresh start is the best possible solution for all parties, which is exactly what the Commanders would provide.
Adams wasn't complimentary about Northwest Stadium or Washington's fanbase during a recent interview. However, the prospect of playing with Jayden Daniels and opposite Terry McLaurin could change his mind quickly.