One analyst named the Washington Commanders as the best candidate to land Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett.
On Thursday, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell published his column (as usual, it is quite lengthy) in which he broke down the NFL teams into tiers regarding who can and cannot obtain Garrett.
Why did Barnwell say the Commanders are the top candidate to land Garrett (who, by the way, has accumulated 102.5 QB sacks in eight seasons as a Brown)?
“The Commanders are the most obvious and consequential landing spot for Garrett. They have the championship potential, the financial flexibility, and the clear and obvious need for pass-rushing help.”
Barnwell also pointed out that the Commanders will have Jayden Daniels for three more years before they need to consider the fifth-year option, and they have roughly $80M in cap space for 2025.
Dante Fowler and Dorance Armstrong are not considered long-term quality pass-rushers, though Fowler (age 30) had a terrific year with 10.5 sacks.
The Commanders need a pass rusher and an end that can seal the edge much better on runs, as Washington was one of the weaker run defenses in the NFL.
Barnwell suggested the Commanders would need to trade their 29th overall choice in April’s NFL draft, along with perhaps DT Jonathan Allen.
Barnwell concluded, “If the Browns are actually willing to deal Garrett, the Commanders should be the first team they call.”
The story was divided into sections by Barnwell:
- What could the Browns get for Garrett?
- The teams that have no chance to add him
- Teams that could be involved as a third party
- Unlikely but plausible: Teams that have a case
- Maybe: Teams that Garrett puts over the top
- Yes: The three teams that should do it as soon as possible.
The Commanders were one of three teams in category No. 6.