With the NFC-leading Eagles coming to town in Week 8, the struggling Commanders are reportedly planning to use Sunday’s game as a major factor in the team’s approach to the remainder of the 2023 season.
Washington (3–4) is “expected to be influenced” by the outcome of its home game against Philadelphia (6–1) as it weighs the option of keeping or shopping certain players ahead of Tuesday’s 4 p.m. ET trade deadline, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Saturday.
For the Commanders, currently third in the NFC East, a win would fortify their season and hopes of a playoff push. However, per Schefter, a loss could influence the club to begin unloading players “as soon as Monday morning.”
If such a scenario occurred, the reported focus would center on the defensive line, most notably standouts Chase Young and Montez Sweat, both of whom have expiring contracts and are ready to become free agents, per Schefter.
Once considered a cornerstone, Young, the No. 2 pick in 2020, has struggled to live up to expectations after tearing his ACL in 2021. Meanwhile, Sweat, who was selected with the No. 26 pick in ’19, has played a key role on the D-line but could be in search of a bigger role elsewhere.
Additionally, the Commanders are reportedly not expected to be able to retain both this offseason, meaning either Young or Sweat, who have combined for 41 tackles and 10.5 sacks this season, could still be on the move regardless.
Outside of the pass-rushers, a potential Washington fire sale could also see other trades for players with expiring contracts, a list that includes quarterback Jacoby Brissett, running back Antonio Gibson, cornerback Kendall Fuller and receiver Curtis Samuel
