If Commanders GM Adam Peters makes a move? Fine. But should he make one with Philadelphia's Howie Roseman?
The Philadelphia Eagles are built to contend for another Super Bowl, and with the recent addition of A.J. Dillon behind Saquon Barkley, their backfield appears set.
If the Washington Commanders get involved in a trade with their NFC East super-rivals ...
Will they be helping themselves? Or helping the defending champs?
Austin Ekeler is with the Commanders, working as a backup and the subject of trade rumors. Indeed, DC is buzzing with the idea of a complete turnover here as the NFL Draft approaches, with Brian Robinson Jr. also in the gossip headlines.
So if Commanders GM Adam Peters makes a move? Fine.
But should he make one with Philadelphia?
Ekeler’s pre-Washington resume is elite. As our Aiden Kauffman writes, "With 475 career receptions for 4,250 yards and 30 touchdowns, his receiving numbers rival those of many slot receivers. His 20-touchdown season in 2021 solidified his status as one of the most complete backs in the league. Even after an injury-plagued 2024 season, he still averaged 4.8 yards per carry and earned All-Pro honors as a return specialist, showcasing his continued impact.''
So why is Washington thinking of making major backfield changes?
The view from Philly on this idea?
Again, to Kauffman: "For quarterback Jalen Hurts, Ekeler would add yet another high-IQ weapon in the short passing game, especially on third downs and in the red zone. While A.J. Dillon offers punch between the tackles, he lacks the route-running and receiving polish that makes Ekeler a unique asset in modern NFL offenses.
"Schematically, the addition would open up endless creative opportunities for Philadelphia’s offense. Imagine Hurts flanked by Saquon Barkley and Ekeler, with A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith on the perimeter.''
When he puts it that way? DC fans might prefer to not imagine it.
Ekeler’s $4.9 cap hit is not a major problem either way. ... but the Commanders could go cheaper and younger here.
For Philadelphia? Does GM Howie Roseman really need a third back?
To Kauffman: "If Roseman were to pull it off, the Eagles wouldn’t just have the most dynamic backfield in football—they’d have an offensive unit bordering on unfair.''
