Commanders News: Trade drama, Chase Young, Josh Harris and draft picks
By Dean Jones
Commanders owner Josh Harris' power play
Some sections of the Washington Commanders fanbase were stunned by the team's decision to trade Montez Sweat and Chase Young. Most thought one should be moved given how hard it would be to satisfy both financially, but for those in power to pull the trigger on two trades raised eyebrows in no uncertain terms.
Make no mistake, this had Josh Harris' fingerprints all over it. The majority partner had a busy day that began by trading James Harden from the Philadelphia 76ers, which concluded with the departures of Young and Sweat from Washington's all-first-round defensive front.
According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, Harris' ownership group pulled rank on head coach Ron Rivera and other football men by making these moves. They wanted the pass-rushing tandem to stay - especially Sweat - but unfortunately for the under-fire head coach, he's no longer in control.
"I was told Washington ownership had a strong hand in deciding to deal both Chase Young and Montez Sweat. Many in the building wanted to keep them because they believe in this team but in the end, its about the future for the Commanders. The Washington Commanders are building. They now have 5 picks in the first 3 rounds. 3 in the top 50. Plus they have [Daron] Payne and [Jonathan] Allen locked in at DT. The building seems thrilled right now."
- Dianna Russini via X/Twitter
Rivera's had the final say on personnel since taking over as Dan Snyder looked for some semblance of stability amid the constant chaos. After three losing seasons that could be a fourth coupled with the introduction of new ownership, the balance of power has rightfully shifted.
And that doesn't bode well for his future with the franchise.