Washington Commanders might've come across a problem while trading for Deebo Samuel that's likely to come up again
The Washington Commanders shook the NFL world on Saturday when they traded for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel.Even though they only gave up a fifth-round pick, the Commanders still traded for a household name at wide receiver and someone they'll owe $21.7 million in 2025. But here's the fun part: It could've been […]
The Washington Commanders shook the NFL world on Saturday when they traded for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel.
Even though they only gave up a fifth-round pick, the Commanders still traded for a household name at wide receiver and someone they'll owe $21.7 million in 2025. But here's the fun part: It could've been an even higher-profile transaction.
That's because the Commanders and 49ers looked into adding another well-known player to the equation. According to ESPN's insider Jeremy Fowler, defensive tackle Jonathan Allen was "a part of the trade discussion" between the two teams as they got the deal done.
As we now know, Allen wasn't included and a potential reason why is a problem that's likely to come up again as the Commanders seek a trade partner for Allen.
"Allen is due $16.4 million this year, a possible hurdle," wrote Fowler.
Though it's true Allen is still a starting-caliber defensive tackle that's likely to gather attention from NFL teams in win now mode that need defensive line help, him not being included in the Deebo Samuel trade even though it was discussed is a reminder of how tricky his situation is.
Keep in mind, contrary to popular belief, trade compensation mostly has to do with cash due to the players being exchanged. Allen's big sum at 30 years old will water down the compensation Washington is offered this offseason.
That isn't to say it wouldn't be okay to deal him away even if it's for a late-round draft pick. The Commanders organization is proving to be one willing to look forward and build a team successful in the long run. If that means not committing to Allen any further, so be it.
Just don't expect a haul of picks in return.
