The Washington Commanders' offseason has made one thing perfectly clear: the time is now to contend for a championship.
That timeline has moved faster than expected but year one of the Jayden Daniels era showed they have a group capable of contending in the present. Washington will only get Daniels on one rookie contract, so there is some urgency to capitalize on financial flexibility.
And these months of the offseason have shown the Commanders putting that strategy into action. They have been aggressive in trades for Deebo Samuel, a strong No. 2 receiver, and Laremy Tunsil, a key addition to the line.
But Washington wants the infrastructure around their quarterback as strong as possible. Looking at the receiving group, they have a strong duo and solid options for a No. 3. That may not stop them from exploring the trade market again.
Anthony Palacios of Last Word On Sports tabbed the Commanders as a potential fit for Baltimore Ravens Receiver Rashod Bateman.
"Meanwhile, the Commanders are still rebuilding as well, even though they’re in a good place since they went to the NFC Championship Game last year. Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel are the two lockdown wide receivers for Jayden Daniels’ offense, but the third spot is still up for grabs despite signing Michael Gallup and bringing back Noah Brown.
"While Luke McCaffrey could break out, nobody should count on the Commanders being aggressive during the 2025 season and getting Bateman."Ad Feedback
The Dallas Cowboys had interest in Bateman becoming their No. 2 before trading for George Pickens. If Washington acquires him, his prospects as the No. 3 in Washington become quite fascinating.
Noah Brown and Luke McCaffrey are the names to watch heading into camp, both more than capable of sliding into that spot. It could be argued that another trade would be some overextending on the Commanders' part.
But Bateman posted 756 and scored nine touchdowns last season. While Brown and McCaffrey have solid prospects of contributing, Bateman has proven he can produce in an elite offense. If the goal is to load up on playmakers, Bateman certainly falls into that category.
