Commanders pressed to make a move for potentially red-hot trade target

The Washington Commanders have run their well pretty dry when it comes to trade expenditure in recent months. That doesn't mean general manager Adam Peters won't make another daring move if he believes it can benefit the team's chances when the playoffs arrive.

Getting into the postseason will be tough. The NFC looks a lot stronger this season. The Commanders are dealing with some troubling injury problems, although the likes of Jayden Daniels and Sam Cosmi are gearing up for their imminent returns. That's a significant boost, but the situation remains precarious until further notice.

Peters will be keeping a close eye on developments. He's an aggressive roster builder who consistently thinks two steps ahead. Making another incoming trade seems unlikely, but nothing could be dismissed entirely if the Commanders stay competitive in the coming weeks.

Commanders urged to explore trade for Titans running back Tony Pollard

Gilberto Manzano from Sports Illustrated thought calling the Tennessee Titans about Tony Pollard's availability could be worth its weight in gold. The analyst thought the Commanders need more alongside Daniels in the backfield, and the Pro Bowler fits the bill to form a potentially dynamic one-two punch with Jacory Croskey-Merritt.

It’s tough seeing the Commanders giving up more draft picks after the trades for Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil. But Washington needs a running back after trading Brian Robinson Jr. to San Francisco and losing Austin Ekeler to injury for the season. [Tony] Pollard, 28, could form a strong backfield with rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt. Pollard has rushed 68 times for 261 yards and one touchdown this season.Gilberto Manzano

Manzano thought the Commanders could strike a deal for Pollard with a fifth-round pick. That's their third-highest selection in 2026 after a flurry of trade incomings. This also completely ignores the current running back dynamic's potential, which is coming to life in the immediate aftermath of Ekeler's unfortunate injury.

Chris Rodriguez Jr. is the new bellcow, and he's done exceptionally well when given chances. Jeremy McNichols is the dependable veteran, and Croskey-Merritt is the change-of-pace rookie. And that's not counting Daniels' ability to gain yards on the ground when the situation dictates.

One could argue that Pollard, who's racked up three-straight 1,000-yard rushing seasons, represents an upgrade. That doesn't mean Peters is going to give up draft assets for him when other position groups are crying out for improvements.

Peters will probably stand pat with what he has right now. It's a constant evaluation, and things can change quickly. Even so, it would be a shock to see a running back trade in Washington's immediate future, no matter if Pollard becomes available or not.