ESPN NEWS UPDATE : 4-Time Pro Bowl Linebacker Named Commanders’ Top Trade Target – DEAL NOW IN ADVANCE STAGE

With the No. 2 pick, Washington could make a trade for veteran players to improve both sides of the football and speed up the rebuilding process.

Bleacher Report’s NFL Scouting Department identified Matthew Judson as their #1 trade target this offseason. According to Bleacher Report, now that Sweat and Young have been moved, Washington may attempt to get another veteran pass rusher.

“After surrendering pass-rushers Montez Sweat and Chase Young at the deadline, Washington may not be interested in acquiring another veteran pass-rusher. However, because he is nearing the final year of his contract and missed much of the season with a torn biceps, they may be able to sign New England’s Matthew Judon on the cheap.”

It’s unclear what the New England Patriots are expecting for in terms of assets for Judon, but considering his injuries this season, the Commanders shouldn’t pay too much.

Matthew Judon had 15.5 sacks in 2022–23.

Despite Judon’s injury, which is worrying given his age of 31, he has had great seasons in each of the previous four seasons. He concluded the 2022 season with an amazing 15.5 sacks, 14 TFL, and 28 QB Hits, and was selected a Pro Bowler for the fourth consecutive year.

He is also familiar with the area, having played with the Baltimore Ravens from 2016 to 2020. The most appealing aspect of Judon is his remuneration. According to Spotrac, with only $6.5 million due in 2024, he becomes an ideal trade candidate. The team traded Montez Sweat, who is due $20.9 million next season.

The Washington Commanders don’t have to spend much money, and he’s a seasoned veteran. Judon, when at his best, has the potential to make a significant contribution to this team.

Jonathan Allen Could Be on the Move
Jonathan Allen, who concluded the season with 5.5 sacks, 53 tackles, and 19 quarterback hits, was perhaps the team’s top defensive player in 2023. However, he has publicly stated his unhappiness, and at points this season, it was clear he did not want to play for the Washington Commanders.

Allen made the Pro Bowl in 2021 and 2022, but not this year. After the Commanders’ Week 7 loss to the New York Giants, Allen was not shy about expressing his disappointment. Bryan Manning of USAToday reports that he said the following:

“No, I wouldn’t say so; I think it’s just a lack of focus on our part, a lack of attention to detail, not starting fast, and creating holes that are too big for us to overcome in the second half,” he added.

When asked if he was frustrated, Allen told reporters the truth.

“(Expletive), yes it does,” Allen answered. “I am (expletive) tired of this (expletive). (Expletive) sick of this (expletive). It has been seven years of the same (crap). I’m tired of this (crap).”

With Allen probably on his way out, the Commanders’ defence will lose another key piece. This squad can improve its position next year by recruiting a player of Matthew Judon’s calibre, especially if other defensive players go.