Commanders predicted to land AFC edge rusher in trade

Jarrett Bailey

Commanders predicted to land AFC edge rusher in trade image

The Washington Commanders finally locked up wide receiver Terry McLaurin to a long-term deal, and their offense has its top weapon ready to go for the 2025 season. That said, Washington lacks a high-end pass rusher.

While they acquired Von Miller, he is more of a name than anything at this point in his career, and the Commanders would be smart to try and trade for a quality edge player. Moe Moton of Bleacher Report agrees, and says the Commanders should trade for Kwity Paye of the Indianapolis Colts.

"Washington needs a young defensive end who can line up on all three downs to rush the pocket and stop the run," Moton writes. "Paye isn't a marquee player, but he's consistent and still has room for growth. The 26-year-old has logged at least eight sacks in back-to-back seasons and 10 tackles for loss in two of his four campaigns."

"Indianapolis may not be willing to give Paye a new contract before he tests free agency next offseason. If rookie second-rounder JT Tuimoloau shows flashes this year, the Colts may listen to offers for Paye. Washington has the cap space flexibility to acquire and sign him to an extension."

Putting Paye in a group with Miller and Dorrance Armstrong would give them a respectable three-man rotation, and we already have proof that Dan Quinn raises the floor of edge rushers after Dante Fowler had a career resurgence in 2024.

Paye had eight sacks in 2024, and has 26.5 for his career.

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Jarrett Bailey

Jarrett Bailey is a freelance NFL writer for The Sporting News. He previously wrote for USA TODAY Sports Media Group, The 33rd Team and Pro Football Network. Enjoyer of chocolate milk, metal music, Batman, pasta salad, and pro wrestling. There is nothing more breathtaking than a Jeff Hardy swanton bomb.