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3 Reasons the Washington Commanders Shouldn’t Trade for Brandon Aiyuk

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The Washington Commanders are now under the Dan Quinn era as the team tries to revamp their roster. Training camp is set to begin and the new head coach is trying to help the team avoid outside distractions.

Of course, the internet is on fire after the San Francisco 49ers’ wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk posted a video of him watching his highlights with rookie QB Jayden Daniels. Both players were teammates at Arizona State and still are close to this day.

In the video, Aiyuk states, ” they don’t want me back.” In today’s game, it’s common for general managers to seek out college connections to help their quarterbacks develop. The Cincinnati Bengals drafted wide receiver Ja’marr Chase to connect with Joe Burrow, and the Arizona Cardinals traded for Marquise ‘Hollywood’ Brown to help Kyler Murray with his production. The Eagles drafted DeVonta Smith to help Jalen Hurts.

Aiyuk’s antics may not result in a trade but it’s something to keep an eye on. Rumors indicate that the Commanders would have to include Terry McLaurin in the trade. There is a connection between Aiyuk and Daniels but is it worth blowing up the current receiving core?

3 Reasons the Washington Commanders Shouldn’t Trade for Brandon Aiyuk

Commanders Veteran Presence

The Commanders shouldn’t trade for Aiyuk because they would need to remove their veteran presence within the receiving core. McLaurin (28)  would have to be in any possible trades for Aiyuk (26) and despite the age difference, it may not be worth it.

McLaurin finished the 2023-24 season with 79 receptions (24th in league), 1,002 receiving yards, and 4 touchdowns. One can argue that Aiyuk’s stat line of 1,342 receiving yards and seven touchdowns is impressive. Needless to say his quarterback situation is different with a consistent Brock Purdy at the helm.

Scary Terry has received passes from multiple quarterbacks since being drafted by Washington in 2019. He has been led by quarterbacks like Case Keenum, Dwayne Haskins (rest in peace), Colt McCoy, Taylor Heinicke, Ryan Fitzpatrick, and Sam Howell to name a few.

The ability to continue playing at a high level in a dysfunctional franchise and still produce is impressive. McLaurin is a great veteran who can help young receivers like Jahan Dotson, Dyami Brown, and Luke McCaffrey (assuming he makes the roster) develop.

Cash Rules Everything Around Me

The San Francisco 49ers received the short end of the stick again after suffering another Super Bowl loss. Deebo Samuel is the clear number one receiver but he has struggled to remain healthy and Aiyuk continued to help carry the load.

Aiyuk made it clear that he wants a new deal and to be paid like a top receiver. Right now, he wants to be in the range of $30 million a year which may not be realistic considering San Francisco’s roster. He is a player that will be pursued but the Commanders need to pass to save on cap space.

Washington is in the middle of a rebuild and one area they need to address is the offensive line. Last season, the Commanders allowed 65 sacks. To rebuild this team, they need to focus on rebuilding the trenches.

Daniels is the future quarterback and their priority should be to keep him healthy. The last major QB that the team drafted was Robert Griffin III, who blew his knee after coming back too early from injury.

Washington must protect their quarterback at all costs to be successful in the future. Signing a receiver to a Justin Jefferson like contract isn’t ideal because of the uncertainty of the quarterback’s timeline to development.

Commanders Need to Take Command

Washington’s current receiving core doesn’t need another superstar, they need a consistent QB. If Washington focuses on the offensive line and develops their schemes, it can help this team tremendously.

The Commanders have a strong running back duo that features Brian Johnson Jr. and Austin Ekeler. The foundation of the roster is there but the culture needs to change along with the teams’ habits.

Trying to trade for Aiyuk would push this team back and cause a salary cap jam. Historically, Washington has not had problems drafting skill positions. For the team to move forward, they need to trust in new ownership, Quinn, and the potential of their younger players.

Main Photo: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

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