Commanders swapped experienced cornerbacks to boost playoff hopes

Adam Peters only has a few days left to figure out if there's a good deal to be made before the trade deadline.

The general manager of the Washington Commanders hasn't made much of a splash since taking office. His steps are methodical and always with the big picture in mind. The team is 6-2 and has ever-increasing hopes of reaching the postseason, so Peters could use this opportunity to strike and solve a potentially problematic position.

Kevin Patra of NFL.com shared this opinion. The analyst expected Peters to be mildly aggressive ahead of the Nov. 5 deadline. He also named New England Patriots cornerback Jonathan Jones, someone who makes a lot of sense.

“Now is not the time for GM Adam Peters to sit still. “Assuming he follows the plan of the 49ers – with whom Peters has spent the last seven seasons – Washington should be ready to add a reliever or two before the deadline.” (Jonathan) Jones, an impending free agent, is a good candidate to move on. The 31-year veteran would throw himself into the Commanders' back line of defense (Dan) Quinn, making timely moves to bolster the defense ahead of the stretch run.”

– Kevin Patra, NFL.com

The commanders' defense has improved somewhat in recent weeks. Joe Whitt Jr. wasn't thrilled with how they finished the game against the Chicago Bears, but the progress is still encouraging.

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They currently rely on Benjamin St-Juste and second-round rookie Mike Sainristil as outside coverage options. Noah Igbinoghene does quite well in the nickel role. However, Emmanuel Forbes Jr.'s continued inconsistency and reduced playing time indicate a clear lack of confidence in the former first-round pick out of Mississippi State.

Jones is not the physically imposing cornerback typically associated with Dan Quinn's defense. However, despite his advanced age, he is an accomplished artist. The Auburn product is also a two-time Super Bowl winner, which in this scenario should inspire instant respect from the moment he walks into the locker room.

This could be a good option for the Commander if the price is right. The fact that Jones loses his contract next spring could drive the price down. Washington won't want to sacrifice too much for someone who might be available for a short-term renter if things don't work out. Peters must also quickly find the right character to fit into Washington's remarkable cultural shift.

For Peters it is a fine line that he will have to overcome in the coming days. Quinn acknowledged during his media release this week that calls were being made, with nothing concrete yet known. In both cases, when the front office leader takes action or stands firm, there must be a certain level of trust.

Peters has done a sensational job so far. He hired the right head coach and most of his roster moves have paid off. There's also a lot to like about his first NFL draft class led by quarterback sensation Jayden Daniels.

Any upgrades would be welcome. But don't be surprised if Peters stands firm when there's even the appearance of doubt.

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