The NFL trade deadline is only 10 days away. And unlike previous trade deadlines, trades are much more common in this day and age. We’ve already seen multiple trades since the season began last month.
As we inch closer to the trade deadline, we will hear a lot more about some big names potentially on the trading block. Football isn’t quite like baseball, where teams can acquire a pitcher at the trade deadline, slot him in, and expect an immediate impact.
In football, players must adjust to new schemes. So, while they can make an immediate impact, it can often take a while to deliver.
At 3-3, could the Washington Commanders be sellers at the trade deadline? Head coach Ron Rivera isn’t likely to consider trading players as he’s fighting to retain his job. But it may not be up to Rivera if Washington loses its next two games. What if new owner Josh Harris sees an opportunity to trade a would-be free agent or two?
NFL insider Jeremy Fowler of ESPN recently discussed multiple players who could be available at the trade deadline. The two names he mentioned for Washington were defensive ends Chase Young and Montez Sweat.
No surprise here.
Here’s what Fowler wrote regarding the Commanders defensive ends:
Young and Sweat, whose contracts expire in March, are popular names this year. Here’s what I’ve been told: Washington, as of now, very much sees both in its future. The Commanders’ team strength is the defensive line. Daron Payne produced in his contract year to earn a four-year, $90-million deal in March, and Sweat (4.5 sacks) and Young (3.0 sacks) are the next in line. As one source told me, betting odds on one or both being dealt should not be great. So, my sense is they don’t plan to trade them.
But one AFC exec believes Washington would at least listen to offers and potentially consider them, which the source didn’t completely shoot down.
If one were to be dealt, Fowler believes it would be Young as Sweat is considered a stronger candidate for an extension or the franchise tag, while Young is content to let things play out.
However, ultimately, Fowler doesn’t believe Washington will move either player.
The Commanders are in a tough position here. If Young continues to produce, you can only franchise one of the two. Sweat is three years older but has been the more consistent player. Young is 25 and has a higher upside. If Washington can agree to an extension with Sweat before the end of the season, then the franchise tag is an option for Young.
The next few months could be fascinating to watch. If Harris plans to replace Rivera and the current regime, he may want the next regime to decide on Sweat and/or Young.
Listening to offers is one thing; making a trade is entirely different. Every team should listen to every potential offer, but that doesn’t mean you intend to deal that player.