Adam Peters has resisted the urge to make any incoming trades this offseason. The Washington Commanders swung for the fences last year after reaching the NFC Championship game. Even though Laremy Tunsil and Deebo Samuel Sr. brought some outstanding returns, a shift in approach was desirable this time around.
That didn’t stop one NFL insider from touting a potential blockbuster trade involving Washington that would shake the NFL to its foundations.
Peters did a good job of filling some major needs in free agency. The defense rightfully took priority, but more is still needed around quarterback Jayden Daniels to improve Washington’s chances. Most believe that will arrive during the draft, but Ralph Vacchiano of FOX Sports had something completely different in mind.
Commanders urged to explore bombshell D.K. Metcalf trade by NFL insider
The analyst thought exploring a trade for Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver D.K. Metcalf might reap significant rewards. A down year by typically high standards, coupled with the money remaining on his contract, could mean the AFC North club listens to the right offer, however unlikely that may appear.
“[D.K.] Metcalf was a bit of a disappointment last season with just 59 catches for 850 yards and six touchdowns as [Aaron] Rodgers struggled to find him downfield. He’d have better luck with the younger, stronger Jayden Daniels throwing him the ball. And the Commanders are desperate for a WR opposite Terry McLaurin.
“Metcalf cost the Steelers a second-round pick. But after a down year, and with three years and more than $100 million left on his contract, something less would do.”
The Steelers are not rebuilding, despite the previous head coach, Mike Tomlin, walking away this offseason. They are expecting quarterback Aaron Rodgers back, and he’ll want the No. 1 receiver to stick around, too. But even if Pittsburgh somehow made Metcalf available, this looks like a non-starter from the Commanders’ perspective.
They have the cash to absorb Metcalf’s contract. But the projected compensation — a third-round pick this year and a 2027 fifth-rounder — seems on the conservative side. And it doesn’t make much sense from Pittsburgh’s standpoint, either.
The Commanders struck out with Alec Pierce and Romeo Doubs in free agency. They acquired Dyami Brown and Van Jefferson Jr., but they are seen as depth pieces brought in to raise competition for places. More is required, and if Peters doesn’t find a viable solution during the draft, he could examine the remaining veteran pool. There is also the possibility of bringing Samuel back if the money works for all parties.
Either way, trading for Metcalf seems a little far-fetched. He would help, of course, but it’s beyond time for the Commanders to start building the right way.
And based on Peters’ movements this offseason, he knows it too.
