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Commanders Encouraged to Attack WR Position Without ‘Luxury’ Circumstances

Jordan Addison

Getty

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jordan Addison.

The Washington Commanders added pieces to multiple roster spots like edge rusher and linebacker. However, one of the most important ones still needs their attention. Grant Paulsen and Danny Rouhier, hosts of their eponymously titled podcast, discussed the option via the trade route. The impetus for the conversation was the Denver Broncos’ trading for Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle.

“Washington should have done this. Not at this price. They just don’t have the luxury; the ability is that they don’t have the picks, frankly.”

The Commanders have a total of six picks in the 2026 NFL Draft. After the No. 7 pick in the first round, the team does not select again until No. 71 (third round). From there, they must wait until pick No. 147 (fifth round). Without the trade capital, the trade becomes smaller. However, that probably doesn’t exclude the franchise from making a deal. With that said, the team will need to identify players that fit under their current draft pick situation.

Talented Receivers at Lower Prices Contain Significant Risk

When the producer mentioned the possibility of the Commanders trading for New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave, Rouhier discussed the overarching issue, which is his health.

“I love the Olave idea. I don’t know what his future is in New Orleans. His concussion problems are scary.”

Since 2022, Olave has suffered four different concussions. Doctors find that if you suffer one concussion, you are susceptible to more in the future. Additionally, two ankle injuries and blood clots pose a daunting medical evaluation. Spending draft picks on a talented but injury-riddled player may not be the smartest move for the Washington brass.

Chris Olave

GettyNew Orleans Saints wid ereceiver Chris Olave.

Rouhier mentioned the possibility of adding Minnesota Vikings wideout Jordan Addison. Entering his fourth season, Addison does not turn 25 until January 27. Plus, the host added a reason why that is most feasible.

“What I’d be really interested in is Jordan Addison. Now, here’s your question on Addison, which is basically the off-field stuff. He’s young. I still think his best football is ahead of him, having been as high as 70 catches in a season. He’s been as high as about 911 yards in a season, but there’s not really a path to him getting paid.”

First off, off-field issues could lower what Minnesota asks in a trade. Since his 2023 drafting, Addison possesses three separate run-ins with law enforcement on his record, ranging from reckless driving to suspicion of driving under the influence. The NFL suspended him for the first three games of last year for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.

On top of that, would the Vikings commit $20 million to a player who has a checkered history? Justin Jefferson, widely regarded as one of the best wideouts in the NFL, makes an average of $35 million through a voidable year of 2029. Freeing Addison could be a goal for team management.

Jordan Addison

GettyMinnesota Vikings wide receiver Jordan Addison.

Blough’s McLaurin Mandate Necessitates Movement

This offseason, new offensive coordinator David Blough made his feelings known about what he wants the team to do with Terry McLaurin. Under those circumstances, defenses will roll pressure to his side. That will leave a wideout single-covered on the opposite side of the field. With high volume comes tighter coverage. The Commanders will need a No. 2 receiver. Which route should they take?

Terry McLaurin

GettyCommanders Wideout Terry McLaurin makes a catch during a December 14, 2025 game.

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