Door swings open for Commanders to trade for irritated star edge rusher

Adam Peters took a calculated risk during the offseason. Despite most fans and experts believing that adding more explosiveness to the edge rushing room was the Washington Commanders' most pressing priority, the general manager did almost nothing to fortify the unit.

That was a contentious issue at the time, and even more so now.

Deatrich Wise Jr. and breakout star Dorance Armstrong Jr. — the team's starting defensive end tandem — have been ruled out for the season. Javontae Jean-Baptiste is also on injured reserve, leaving the Commanders with Von Miller, Jacob Martin, and Preston Smith as their three options currently. Even Drake Jackson was stashed on injured reserve immediately after signing to continue his recovery from a serious knee problem.

The Commanders haven't done anything to offset Armstrong's crippling absence as yet. However, this is leading NFL insiders to speculate that Peters is plotting another bold trade before the 2025 deadline.

Commanders could test Jets' resolve with Jermaine Johnson II trade attempt

It's a tricky conundrum for the Commanders. Peters is an aggressive roster builder, as evidenced by his trades for cornerback Marshon Lattimore, left tackle Laremy Tunsil, and wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. Throwing away more draft picks when Washington is 3-4 with some testing challenges upcoming doesn't seem likely. Still, the front-office leader won't hesitate if he feels like it could benefit the franchise.

And the door could have swung open for the Commanders to solve one of their most glaring flaws, both in the short and long term.

All is not well within the New York Jets right now. They are winless through seven games, and reports suggest the AFC East club could be open to business if suitable trade interest arises. One name coming up in conversations is Jermaine Johnson II, who voiced his displeasure on social media about giving his all without getting much back in return.

He also said something has to give. Just what that means is another matter, but Johnson's irritations are obvious. Reports also suggest that calls have been made about his availability, though the Jets are reportedly driving a hard bargain.