The Washington Commanders are in a familiar position as they approach 2024, facing a roster that needs significant changes. After a period of instability, general manager Adam Peters and coach Dan Quinn face a critical offseason. The team’s situation highlights the extensive work required.
The Commanders are under pressure to construct a competitive team around quarterback Jayden Daniels. As the NFL’s legal tampering window approaches, the Commanders are expected to be active spenders.
The team’s approach is shifting. After Peters reduced the roster in 2024 and subsequently re-signed several of Washington’s veteran players to one-year contracts in 2025, the focus has changed.
This year, the priority is to establish a foundation by securing younger players, particularly those concluding their initial NFL contracts, with extended agreements. This is according to a source with direct knowledge of the Commanders’ strategy.
The Commanders need to improve their speed, provide Daniels with more offensive options, and revamp a defence that has struggled for years. They have the resources to achieve these goals.
Financial Flexibility in Free Agency
Following the release of center Tyler Biadasz and cornerback Marshon Lattimore, Washington has significant financial flexibility. They possess over $80 million in salary cap space, ranking fourth in the league, according to Spotrac and Over the Cap. This figure accounts for the top 51 contracts against a team’s cap during the offseason.
Potential Free Agency Targets
Here are some players the Commanders may consider:
- Edge rusher Phillips
- Wide receiver Rashid Shaheed
- Tight end Isaiah Likely
Addressing the Pass Rush
Adding an edge rusher is essential for Washington. Phillips, 26, is a potential target if he can remain healthy.
Injuries have affected Phillips’ availability in recent seasons, but he has shown the ability to make a difference when fit. He possesses the quickness and versatility that the Commanders are seeking in their pass rushers. A former first-round pick, Phillips played for Miami before being traded to the Philadelphia Eagles last November. In 17 starts last season, Phillips recorded 73 quarterback pressures and 23 run stops.
Tight End Options
Zach Ertz was Daniels’ primary target in the red zone over the past two seasons, but he is recovering from an ACL injury he suffered in December. He is also 35. While the Commanders have not ruled out a possible return for Ertz, they currently lack a reliable pass-catching tight end, and their receiving corps requires improvement.
The Commanders aim to build a contender around Daniels. The NFL’s legal tampering window opens soon.