Trade speculation levels remain high between the Washington Commanders and Myles Garrett. One team insider believes there is one surprising bargaining chip that could help get this hypothetical deal over the line.
Garrett stunned the sports world by officially handing in a trade request. The All-Pro defensive end reached breaking point with the Cleveland Browns' constant underachievement. With quarterback Deshaun Watson looking like one of the worst trades and guaranteed contracts agreed in NFL history, the former No. 1 overall selection took matters into his own hands.
Washington was immediately linked with Garrett. The edge rusher was complimentary of the franchise and wouldn't mind joining this ambitious project during his media appearances on Radio Row. Cleveland isn't willing to entertain the notion, but they could be blown away with an offer they can't refuse.
Just what that'll be is anyone's guess.
Commanders insider names Brandon Coleman as potential Myles Garrett trade chip
Ben Standig from The Athletic believes it would take two first-round picks or a first-rounder coupled with Day 2 selections to get the conversation started. The insider also thought offensive lineman Brandon Coleman could be a surprisingly expendable piece if the Commanders went down this route.
Which players could you give up that would not be overly dramatic? Brandon Coleman. If they spend on Myles Garrett and they've already spent on [Marshon] Lattimore, they may at most have a spot for one more chip — somebody to go for it. I think Coleman is interesting. He's got good size, good strength, but in talking to some people after the season, I've heard enough of 'maybe he lands at guard'. And I'm not saying that's wrong, but in general, if you're talking about a guy who might ultimately have to play guard — I don't think this is somebody that you can't afford to move. And you could be somewhat fine to replace.Ben Standig
Coleman was a third-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. He manned left tackle responsibilities, sharing them with Cornelius Lucas initially before getting full-time work over the second half of the campaign. The former TCU star did relatively well, although there were some obvious and expected growing pains through his transition.
Many believe Coleman will be better suited to the interior over time. He'll benefit greatly from his first-year experiences. But if the Browns, who do have concerns on the blindside due to Dawand Jones' injury problems, ask for the player to be part of any potential trade, it's something general manager Adam Peters might consider.
There's just no telling for sure right now. Nothing should be off the table, but the astronomical compensation attached makes it more difficult to mold a well-rounded roster for sustainable growth.
At the same time, Garrett is one of the league's elite players regardless of position. Opportunities like this don't come along in the trade market too often. Peters might decide against it when it's all said and done, but he has to try.
Adding Garrett to the Commanders would change everything. If Peters has to include someone like Coleman or another player to sweeten the pot, it's a small price to pay.
Fans are waiting with bated breath for additional developments.