Cleveland Browns edge-rusher Myles Garrett has implied the Washington Commanders are one of his preferred trade destinations.
In a Wednesday interview with Sports Illustrated at Super Bowl Radio Row in New Orleans, Garrett — who requested a trade on Monday — explained why the Commanders could use him.
"I've thought about the squads that could use a guy like me, and the Washington Commanders are among them," the edge-rusher said. "I think they need a pass-rusher. I think that's something they dearly missed in the playoffs and some of their big games. I feel like I could fill that role."
Garrett added multiple teams need an elite pass-rusher, but the eight-year veteran's comments should pique the Commanders' interest.
This season, Washington shattered expectations with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, going 12-5 in the regular season and making it to its first NFC Championship Game in 33 years. However, the team's inability to generate pressure was a concern throughout the season.
Per Pro Football Reference, the Commanders tied for 22nd in the league in pressures (129) during the regular season. In Washington's 55-23 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship Game, it had just two sacks.
Trading for Garrett — who will enter the fourth year of a five-year, $125M deal in 2025 — could be costly. In a recent poll from The Athletic's Jeff Howe, 10 NFL personnel executives said a team would have to trade at least one first-rounder to acquire the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year.
The Commanders must weigh their options. Landing the pass-rusher would improve their defense, but they could use their picks to continue building around Daniels. Still, a star like Garrett may propel the Commanders to the next level.
In 17 games during the 2024 season, the six-time Pro Bowler finished with the league's second-most sacks (14) and tied for ninth in forced fumbles (three).
The NFL trading period begins on March 12 at 4 p.m. ET. When the window opens, the Commanders should consider contacting the Browns to see if they can make a trade for Garrett happen.
