The Washington Commanders know they have a quarterback capable of winning a Super Bowl. Now, it’s time to swing big.
The Commanders kicked off their offseason by trading a fifth-round pick for San Francisco 49ers receiver Deebo Samuel. It’s a risky move, albeit for limited draft capital, given Samuel’s declining performance and collection of injuries. Yet, it’s the kind of move Washington is positioned well to make.
The biggest veteran splash potentially on the table this offseason would be trading for Cleveland Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett.
However, a recent Browns’ update regarding Garrett is bad news for the Commanders. After publicly requesting a trade, Cleveland responded with a swift refusal. When Garrett attempted to meet with ownership to discuss his concerns, the Browns gave him more of the same.
“Browns star Myles Garrett recently requested a meeting with owner Jimmy Haslam, who declined to speak amidst Garrett’s trade request, per sources,” Tom Pelissero wrote.
“Both sides are dug in: Cleveland refuses to even discuss a trade, while Garrett is preparing to miss games if he’s not traded.”
Garrett is under contract for two more seasons until a handful of void years kick in – he’s set to cost $41 million against the cap in 2027. The Browns don’t have to trade the best defensive player in franchise history. But if he’s willing to sit out, or get surgery on his lingering foot injuries, this quickly turns into a hostage situation.
Cleveland, perhaps more than any other team, cannot afford that kind of meltdown.
Yet, general manager Andrew Berry was open at the NFL Scouting Combine about his intent to see Garrett suit up in 2025.
"He's a huge part of our organization. Really good person," Berry said. "He's an awesome player. Understand the trade request and everything, but our stance really has not changed. We can't imagine a situation where not having Myles as a part of the organization is best for the Browns."
The Commanders may be forced to move onto other options along the edge, like Trey Hendrickson or the recently released Joey Bosa, but none offer Garrett’s track record or Hall of Fame trajectory.
Washington would likely be willing to part with real draft capital, too. First-round picks are far less necessary when a superstar quarterback is already in the building. The Commanders would happily trade the 29th pick for a top-flight edge rusher on a contending team.
Unfortunately for Washington’s Super Bowl aspirations, it takes two to tango. Browns ownership, as free agency approaches, doesn’t seem willing to dance.
