5 trades the Commanders should consider to boost playoff chances in 2023

Commanders could trade forJordan Hicks

It doesn't take a genius to figure out that the Washington Commanders need another capable linebacker to take their defense up a notch. Replacing Cole Holcomb with Cody Barton just hasn't turned out the way everyone hoped, although Jamin Davis continues to impress on occasion despite getting almost no help around him.

The Commanders might decide to stand pat and hope things work out. But with seats warm under Josh Harris' ownership group and urgency levels not seen during the Dan Snyder era, the time for action is now.

While the Minnesota Vikings haven't given up on their 2023 season just yet, it's hard to envisage a scenario where they can make any serious waves without All-Pro wide receiver Justin Jefferson. They did manage to beat the Chicago Bears in Week 6, but much of that had to do with Justin Fields going out of the contest with a hand issue.

Despite their indifferent form, Jordan Hicks has found a new lease of life under defensive coordinator Brian Flores. The former third-rounder has been tasked with extra responsibilities this season after the Vikings released Eric Kendricks, which is a challenge he's taken on with supreme commitment and outstanding production in equal measure.

Of all the names on this list, Hicks might be the least likely. But there's no harm in the Commanders putting in a call to see what it might take for what would be a huge upgrade in a position of need.