Rumored Commanders trade target suggests expectation shift in 2024

Not many within the Washington Commanders thought they'd be 5-2 heading into the midway stage of the 2024 campaign. It's been a remarkable turnaround in such a short space of time. Something that raised expectations among the fanbase for good measure.

This won't be going unnoticed by general manager Adam Peters. Many expected the Commanders to be among the strugglers and potentially selling assets before the 2024 trade deadline. After a memorable opening to the campaign, the script could potentially flip entirely.

Peters won't be rash in his decision-making process. The front-office leader has a long-term plan in place and won't risk jeopardizing his flexibility in 2025 or beyond. But if there is a good deal to be had, he'll consider it if there's genuine belief in this team's chances of making the postseason in 2024.

Commanders have reportedly called the Browns about Za'Darius Smith

Brad Stainbrook from 247sports.com stated that the Commanders were among the teams who've called the Cleveland Browns about the availability of edge rusher Za'Darius Smith. Although they've been reluctant to part ways with the prolific veteran, this could change if their losing run continues over the next fortnight.

"Following the Amari Cooper trade last week, multiple teams are calling the Cleveland Browns regarding the availability of defensive end Za'darius Smith. The Baltimore Ravens, Detroit Lions, and Washington Commanders are just a few of the teams who have talked with Cleveland regarding the veteran player, a league source tells TheOBR.com. As of last week, Andrew Berry was hesitant to trade away Smith, but as the team continues to tally more losses, Cleveland's chances of unloading the veteran for another draft pick will likely increase."

- Brad Stainbroook, 247sports

Whether there's any truth to this is anyone's guess, but it makes a ton of sense. The Commanders are light of options on the defensive front with Jonathan Allen sidelined for the season and Dorance Armstrong Jr. also missing in Week 7. They managed to perform well on defense. However, this was the Carolina Panthers we were talking about.

Much more will be needed if the Commanders want to make noise in the playoffs. Smith brings proven credentials and Pro Bowl-caliber production to the table. He's no spring chicken at 32 years old, but his four sacks this season suggest there's still something left in the tank.

Washington has the assets to make an intriguing offer if the Browns aren't demanding something unrealistic. Smith's got no guaranteed money left on his deal after this season, counting $9.43 million and $15.8 million against the salary cap on the last two years of his contract. It's affordable for a team with more than $121 million in available financial resources next spring.

It'll be interesting to see how the Commanders approach matters. While it would be surprising to see Peters sit on his hands, it couldn't be dismissed entirely. But if Washington can beat the Chicago Bears with or without Jayden Daniels in Week 8, that could be enough for the franchise to strike.

Opportunity knocks for the Commanders. Peters and his staff are shrewd enough to see what's unfolding in front of them. They're much further along than most envisaged, so pivoting accordingly could be a route to consider.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

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