Washington Commanders offensive coordinator David Blough said he plans to build the offense around wide receiver Terry McLaurin, aiming to give him 10 targets per game. In 2025, they had Deebo Samuel and Zach Ertz to help take some attention away from McLaurin, but both are impending free agents and may not be back.
If we're being honest, Ertz is unlikely to be back. His age and a December knee injury haven't done him any favors, but Ben Sinnott hasn't proven that he can take up the mantle either. This scenario creates an opportunity for the Commanders to find a veteran tight end who can be a reliable pass-catcher for Jayden Daniels.
Bleacher Report recently named a dream trade scenario for each NFL team, and their suggestion was to trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers for tight end Jonnu Smith.
Washington can bring in Jonnu Smith, who's a proven playmaker on passing downs with at least 50 catches and 582 receiving yards in two of the previous three seasons. As part of a three-man tight end group in Pittsburgh, he may be open to a change of scenery.
At 6-foot-3 and weighing 248 pounds, Smith is a big tight end who made some key plays for the Steelers in 2025. But as the article indicates, the Steelers used three tight ends last season, which meant less playing time and fewer targets. It would make sense for Pittsburgh to trade Smith, since it already has Pat Freiermuth on the roster.
Smith is one of those players who can line up almost anywhere. He can catch the ball, he's rushed the ball, he's returned kicks, he has defensive stats, and he's even attempted a pass. He could be the ultimate safety valve for Daniels as teams focus on McLaurin until they're forced not to.
The Commanders will still have to add another impact player at wide receiver, but Smith could be a nice addition. However, this is unlikely. For one, don't expect a lot of trading from Washington this offseason, which is already without picks in the second and fourth rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft. Additionally, there are several quality tight ends available in free agency. Smith may be on his way out of Pittsburgh, but don't expect him to be catching passes from Jayden Daniels in 2026.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Analyst offers 'dream' trade scenario