Commanders have announced to trade back one spot in the NFL Draft with the New England Patriots.
Does it make logical sense for the Commanders to consider trading down one spot in the NFL Draft with the Patriots, given both teams’ quarterback needs? The Washington Commanders are currently undergoing a rebuilding phase, prompting a crucial question for the new regime: could a trade back expedite the team’s reconstruction?
Presently holding the No. 2 overall pick in a draft class known for having three top-tier quarterback prospects, the Commanders are in a position to attract teams with quarterback needs willing to trade up. Exploring the possibility of trading down one spot with the New England Patriots becomes pertinent.
While USC quarterback Caleb Williams is widely regarded as the top prospect in the draft class and a likely No. 1 overall pick, the No. 2 spot offers the chance to choose between reigning Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels of LSU and UNC’s Drake Maye.
If a trade-back scenario unfolds, the Patriots become a key player in the equation. The distinct playstyles of Maye and Daniels add a layer of complexity, with Maye known for his pocket passing and Daniels for his elite athleticism. Teams are unlikely to settle for the other, as it could significantly alter offensive scheming.
Ideally, the Commanders could employ a smokescreen strategy to entice the Patriots into trading up, ensuring the franchise secures its preferred prospect. Such a trade would involve Washington moving back only one spot, a situation reminiscent of the 2017 NFL Draft.
In 2017, the San Francisco 49ers traded down one spot to allow the Chicago Bears to select quarterback Mitch Trubisky, receiving two third-round picks and a fourth-rounder in addition to the No. 3 pick. Those picks were used to select the top linebacker prospect and the second-best defensive lineman prospect, while the fourth-rounders became All-Pro running back Alvin Kamara and All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner in subsequent years.
This historical example underscores the value of trading back for acquiring franchise-altering talent. Additionally, Washington Commanders’ General Manager Adam Peters, having worked in San Francisco’s front office in 2017 and serving as the assistant general manager since 2021, is familiar with the potential returns of trading back. As such, fans shouldn’t dismiss the possibility of such a strategic move.
