[Trending News] Commanders switch gears quickly after Myles Garrett trade dream goes up in smoke

Dreams of securing All-Pro defensive end Myles Garrett have officially died following his contract extension with the Cleveland Browns. An insider report suggests the Washington Commanders have already set their sights on another prolific edge threat.

The Commanders were rumored to be contemplating a bold bid for Garrett. That would have involved multiple first-round selections and a new deal worth $40 million per season. Cleveland refused to entertain any offers and managed to convince the pass-rusher to stick around by making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league.

Money always talks. The Commanders have plenty of that heading into free agency. They are also reportedly looking to find out what it might take to prise Trey Hendrickson from the Cincinnati Bengals.

Commanders reportedly interesting in trading for edge rusher Trey Hendrickson

Dianna Russini from The Athletic revealed that the Commanders are one of several teams showing interest in Hendrickson after his trade request was granted. The senior insider also reported that the Bengals are looking for substantial draft compensation to part ways with the former third-round pick.

The Commanders need someone capable of causing havoc in opposing backfields. Releasing veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Allen further depletes their options, although that’s likely to change sooner rather than later with the legal tampering window on the immediate horizon.

Adam Peters isn’t blessed with much in the way of draft capital currently. Washington has six selections after giving up a fifth-rounder for wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. But looking at Hendrickson’s production in recent years, he’d be an exceptional addition.

Hendrickson has 35 sacks over the last two seasons. He’s an All-Pro-caliber performer with plenty of good football left in the tank. Acquiring him would add to Washington’s playoff legitimacy after a sensational run to the NFC Championship game in 2024.

Just what the Bengals are looking for remains to be seen. Reports indicate a second or third-round pick could be enough. A bidding war should drive up the price, but Peters won’t hesitate to pull the trigger if he feels like it can help the Commanders get over the hump.

The All-Pro out of Florida Atlantic will probably be seeking an extension from the team he joins. Hendrickson is in the final year of his deal and counts $18.66 million against the salary cap in 2025. The Commanders can easily afford it, especially considering Allen’s departure saves Peters $16.47 million to better spend elsewhere.

Expect something to happen quickly.

The Bengals need to problem resolved urgently with free agency looming. Interest will only diminish once teams around the league begin signing edge rushers, of which there are many in free agency. Peters is a shrewd negotiator. If he’s legitimately set his sights on Hendrickson, there’s a good chance a deal will be struck.

Hendrickson is an outstanding player. He’d be the best pass-rusher Washington’s had since arguably Ryan Kerrigan. He wouldn’t solve every problem, but the edge presence gets the Commanders a lot closer that’s for sure.

A fascinating few days await. Acquiring Hendrickson would be yet another major statement of intent. Whether this becomes reality is another matter.

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