One doesn't have to look far across the Washington Commanders' fanbase for concerns surrounding the edge-rushing position in 2025. Adam Peters seems pretty confident in the options available, but they do look light of legitimate options upon closer examination of the depth chart.
Washington's best edge threat, Dorance Armstrong Jr., secured a pass-rush win rate of just 14 percent last season, according to Pro Football Focus. The rest all come with concerns, and the 10.5-sack Dante Fowler Jr. is no longer around after he bolted for the Dallas Cowboys in free agency.
Trey Hendrickson's contract unhappiness could be the Commanders' gain
It's no wonder the Commanders are being strongly linked with a trade for All-Pro defensive end Trey Hendrickson. Adam Peters isn't flush with spare assets after acquiring Marshon Lattimore, Deebo Samuel Sr., and Laremy Tunsil. However, his win-now mindset led Douglas Fritz from Clutch Points to conclude this move should be made in a heartbeat.
We’re getting ready to see if the Commanders believe they can win the Super Bowl in 2025. They need to shore up one area of their defense, and [Trey] Hendrickson would do it in a heartbeat. Given the fact Hendrickson said he won’t play on his current deal, the opportunity awaits for the Commanders.Douglas Fritz
Hendrickson's public tirade over the Cincinnati Bengals' handling of his contract situation reignited this week. The four-time Pro Bowler revealed that communication has been cut off, and both sides are dug in. He's not going to play next season without a new deal from the club. If owner Mike Brown doesn't want to pay, trading him seems like a realistic alternative.
What the Commanders can offer that would entice the Bengals is anyone's guess. They don't have a second-rounder next year. Giving up their first-round pick is out of the question. Perhaps a package of picks would be enough, but there's just no telling for sure.
The Commanders have enough financial flexibility to extend Hendrickson. This would be a no-brainer if Peters hadn't made so many other moves. The fact that he has complicated matters considerably.
If the Commanders somehow got their hands on Hendrickson, it would be a game-changer in no uncertain terms. Having a player capable of striking fear into opposing offensive lines could make a significant difference. It would make everyone around him better, and Washington's hopes of winning the Super Bowl would increase exponentially.
Although the well is pretty dry in Washington right now, that might not stop Peters from trying. Whether it's enough to land the NFL's sack leader is another matter.
