The Washington Commanders' aggressive free-agent moves have set the table for a better campaign in 2026. General manager Adam Peters got off to the best possible start, but there are several more holes that must be filled before on-field preparations for the new season get underway.
And one NFL analyst believes the Commanders could be in a position to make yet another daring trade to improve their fortunes.
Peters has acquired three proven veterans in trades since taking the job. Two of them — left tackle Laremy Tunsil and wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. — went well. The Commanders' acquisition of cornerback Marshon Lattimore was a disaster, but he's not Washington's problem anymore after being cut to save $18.5 million.
Commanders urged to make bold splash with Budda Baker trade, but it seems unlikely
Most fans believe Peters is done acquiring established pros via trade. That was not an opinion shared by Wynston Wilcox of FanSided, who thought the Commanders should take a swing at Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker if the price is right.
"When you have one of the most expensive offseasons in recent history, you go all in. That’s why the Washington Commanders trading for Budda Baker just makes sense at this point in free agency.
"Baker is expensive, but he’d be a major veteran asset to this defense. They have had one of the oldest rosters in the NFL the last couple of seasons; why not double down on it and improve the secondary at the same time? With Baker, this team is that much closer to dethroning the Philadelphia Eagles as the NFC [East] champs."
Baker is an exceptional player whose previous accomplishments need no introduction. He's a genuine difference-maker on the back end with the scope to impact proceedings all over the field. The Commanders signed Nick Cross in free agency, but that shouldn't preclude Peters from adding more to the safety room if the right opportunities present themselves.
Jeremy Reaves got another early extension, which cements his role. Quan Martin, Percy Butler, Will Harris, and Tyler Owens are seemingly on much shakier ground as defensive coordinator Daronte Jones looks to rejuvenate this failing unit.
The Commanders have the financial resources to absorb Baker's contract with minimal fuss. However, if they are looking for dynamic safety with a similar skill set, there is a much simpler, cheaper solution with far more long-term upside attached.
That, of course, is Ohio State safety Caleb Downs at No. 7 overall. That seems far more likely than any incoming trade, though much will depend on how the draft board shakes out, but arguably the best overall prospect in this class should be on the shortlist.
As for Baker? The Cardinals won't want to lose him as they embark on a new era under head coach Mike LaFleur. Couple this with the compensation any trade would likely cost, and it looks like a non-starter.