Washington better get Charvarius Ward!
After a disappointing 2023 NFL season marked by a 4-13 record and a failure to reach the playoffs, the Washington Commanders find themselves at a pivotal moment. As they prepare for the 2024 NFL offseason, the Commanders have a vital opportunity to revamp their roster. They can do this through strategic trades and acquisitions. Here, we’ll evaluate the team’s performance in the 2023 season, identify areas needing improvement, and advocate for one player the Commanders should target via trade to strengthen their lineup.
The Commanders’ 2023 Season
The Washington Commanders’ 2023 NFL season was marred by inconsistency and lackluster performances. This resulted in a last-place finish in the NFC East. They went through offensive struggles to generate momentum and defensive challenges in containing opponents. The Commanders just faced significant deficiencies across multiple positions. This was particularly true in the trenches and secondary. These shortcomings ultimately led to the departure of erstwhile head coach Ron Rivera and the appointment of Dan Quinn as the new head coach.
The Commanders’ Offseason Outlook
The Commanders’ offseason trajectory largely hinges on their handling of the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. They must decide whether to retain the selection to secure talents such as Drake Maye or Caleb Williams. Alternatively, they can explore trade opportunities for substantial returns.
If the Commanders choose to draft a quarterback with the second pick, the focus will shift to the potential trade of Sam Howell. Sure, Howell showed promise in his sophomore year. That said, his performance did not fully justify the team’s investment in a top-tier QB prospect.
Additionally, Washington may explore trade options for wide receiver Dyami Brown. His role in the offense has been limited, especially considering he enters the final year of his rookie contract. Nevertheless, enhancing their defense remains perhaps the Commanders’ primary objective.
Here we will look at the perfect trade that the Washington Commanders must complete during this year’s 2024 NFL offseason.
Trade for Charvarius Ward
Commanders get: CB Charvarius Ward
49ers get: 2024 Day 3 pick
Despite trading pass-rushers Montez Sweat and Chase Young during the previous deadline, the Commanders may not initially lean towards acquiring another veteran pass-rusher. Nevertheless, they could explore the possibility of securing New England’s Matthew Judon at a reasonable price. That’s given his impending contract expiration and substantial absence due to a torn biceps injury during much of the season.
Having said that, acquiring a cornerback with an expiring contract, such as San Francisco’s Charvarius Ward, should be a much better move. It could significantly enhance Washington’s 32nd-ranked pass defense.
In the ongoing pursuit of defensive reinforcements, the Commanders have a prime opportunity to secure Ward from the 49ers. In our proposed trade, the Commanders would obtain Ward in exchange for a 2024 Day 3 pick. That’s potentially a third-round selection.
Keep in mind that Washington’s defensive unit is in dire need of support. This is particularly true in the secondary. With the 49ers facing financial constraints and having previously traded with the Commanders, there exists a favorable environment for negotiation. By offering back their third-round pick, the Commanders can alleviate the 49ers’ cap strain while addressing their own defensive shortcomings.
