ASHBURN, Va. — The Washington Commanders anticipated an active period during free agency, and they certainly delivered, executing close to thirty-six moves within the past fortnight. These transactions are part of their strategy to boost a squad that barely missed the Super Bowl, while also preparing to challenge rivals like the reigning champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, twice a year.
After enjoying their most remarkable season since 1991, the Commanders are eager to enhance support for quarterback Jayden Daniels. They targeted reinforcements on both the offensive line and among the receivers, focused on deepening their defensive front, and sought out players hungry to leave their mark.
If this approach pays off, it might propel the team from its 12-5 record to achieving what’s been elusive for decades: a consistent winning streak. The last time Washington appeared in the playoffs in back-to-back seasons was from 1991-92.
Here’s a closer look at how their offseason moves could pave the way for another playoff push:
One-Year Contracts: Out of the 29 players signed or acquired since free agency began on March 12, a staggering 24 have signed one-year contracts. This strategy keeps the team flexible, avoiding long-term commitments to potentially bad deals. They brought in players like wide receiver Deebo Samuel, who is motivated to prove his worth for a potential lucrative deal in the future. According to an insider, this situation might compel Samuel to deliver his "best version" on the field.
This short-term focus proved successful last season with veterans like linebacker Bobby Wagner and tight end Zach Ertz, both of whom played in every game, with Wagner earning second-team All-Pro accolades and Ertz tallying 66 receptions with seven touchdowns.
Samuel aims to justify Washington’s faith in him, especially after the team adjusted his contract to guarantee his $17.455 million salary, adding another $3 million in potential bonuses. "They’ve placed a lot of trust in me," Samuel remarked. "I can’t let them down."
Meanwhile, players like receiver Michael Gallup, who temporarily retired, are back to showcase their renewed vigor. After signing with Washington, Gallup expressed his readiness: "I’ve got a lot of fire up in me."
Javon Kinlaw is one exception to the one-year deals, receiving a three-year contract. San Francisco declined his fifth-year option a couple of years back, but with Washington, he feels empowered to prove them right. "They see the progression," Kinlaw said, "Every year I’ve gotten better. I’ll continue to get better."
Revamped Defensive Line: The team let go of former Pro Bowl tackle Jonathan Allen, opting instead to bolster their front with flexible, depth-enhancing players like Deatrich Wise Jr., Jacob Martin, Kinlaw, and Eddie Goldman. Collectively, these additions boast 384 games with 204 starts.
This emphasis on versatility echoes Coach Dan Quinn’s philosophy of fostering competition and adaptability. The Commanders urgently needed to fortify their front lines to address a run defense that ranked near the bottom in crucial metrics.
Goldman, a 325-pound nose tackle, adds significant bulk absent from last season’s lineup. Kinlaw and Goldman, both at least 320 pounds, bring unique physicality that previously lacked consistency.
The enhanced depth allows for strategies that were previously unattainable. As veteran Clelin Ferrell explained, "We can be a very versatile team. There’s nothing they can’t ask us to do."
Although they’re still scouting for additional edge rushers, free agency and the draft offer a bounty of options, freeing them from needing to prioritize this position with their 29th pick.
Strengthening Daniels’ Support: Improving the offensive line is crucial, and their acquisition of Laremy Tunsil from Houston in a trade is a blockbuster move. Tunsil’s own words capture his expected impact: "I can make a huge impact in pass protection and run blocking."
His arrival allows the Commanders to focus their draft strategy elsewhere, irrelevant of the left tackle dilemma. With Tunsil in place, Nick Allegretti and Brandon Coleman anchor a potent offensive lineup with center Tyler Biadasz and right guard Sam Cosmi adding strength.
Washington’s line has seen several changes since 2021, often due to performance issues. Ensuring a stable lineup has been a mission. "People around the league would love such a rotation," radio analyst Logan Paulsen stated. "[Getting Tunsil] insulates your most valuable asset, Jayden Daniels."
With the introduction of Deebo Samuel, Washington now boasts an additional playmaker to complement Terry McLaurin.
Last season, the Commanders tied for seventh in plays of 25 yards or more but were fifteenth for receptions of this distance. Samuel offers proven big-play ability, with 52 career receptions of 25-plus yards. His yards after contact further solidify him as an asset.
Meanwhile, they might seek a dynamic running back to join Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler through the draft. For now, Samuel stands as the most significant recruitment.
"Deebo is phenomenal," corner Jonathan Jones reflected. "He’s the hardest to tackle receiver in the league. He runs like a running back, and he’s versatile."
In summary, the Commanders’ strategic acquisitions aim to build depth, versatility, and skill across the board, putting them in a fantastic position to challenge for more consistent postseason success.
