The Washington Commanders could be in the market for solidifying their defensive unit and trade for Kwity Paye before the 2025 campaign. According to a report, one source believes the Commanders and Colts could negotiate on a trade since Washington is in dire need of a young pass rusher. While they did sign Von Miller a few weeks ago, they don’t believe he is the long-term answer, which is true given his age and production for the past two years. Washington is building an old-school roster to maximize the rookie contract of quarterback Jayden Daniels, but they must start building their entire team either way before his rookie deal is up.
Paye isn’t the best available possible trade candidate, but he has a couple of flashes that show he can be a versatile edge rusher. Originally selected in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, the former Michigan product is entering the last year of his contract, but the Colts may not extend him next offseason and will opt to allow him to test free agency. If this is true, the Colts should figure out a way to send him to a new team and figure out his next contract while he’s still healthy. A trade won’t happen to Washington if the Commanders have to give up more than one draft pick, so here are other possible suitors that may make sense.
Commanders, Colts Connected in Possible Blockbuster Kwity Paye Trade
Next Potential Teams
New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints have finally been rebuilding their offense, trading for DeVaughn Vele and claiming Trey Palmer off waivers. However, that won’t matter if they don’t continue upgrading the defensive room. The Saints have rebuilt the defensive line, trading for Davon Godchaux and signing Jonathan Bullard. While one gives them depth and the other provides a new leader, the team shouldn’t stop building. Bryan Bresee is coming off his worst season last year, and it’s hard to imagine he can keep up with Cameron Jordan on the other end.
Paye isn’t changing this unit overnight, but it should give the Saints’ defensive line some breathing room.
Carolina Panthers
Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers have finally invested in their defense this offseason, but there is room for improvement. Tershawn Wharton and Bobby Brown are stepping in as the new contributors, and while they’re solid, the Panthers could address the depth of their edge rush. When they have Derrick Brown, who is recovering from his season-ending injury from last year, it’s important to add some comfort behind him. Paye might never start in the unit, but it gives some relief moving forward, especially when the team released Jadeveon Clowney and Josey Jewell.
Dallas Cowboys
However, the Dallas Cowboys will be in the market for an edge after trading Micah Parsons. Even though they’ve been able to add Dante Fowler Jr. back, it’s always best to upgrade this defense now rather than later when you’re at risk of losing your top defensive playmaker on this team. Between Marshawn Kneeland and James Houston, the Cowboys could do better, and even if Paye isn’t the final solution, he is better than what they have.
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