The Washington Commanders have plenty of holes to fill the season but plenty of salary cap space to get things done. That sounds like previous years for Washington, but things are much different this time.
The Commanders are coming off a 12-5 season with two playoff wins, the franchise’s best season in 33 years. Now, Washington must show that last season was no fluke and surround Jayden Daniels with more help on the offensive line, another wide receiver and defensive upgrades.
So, with that cap space and needing to improve, what is the Commanders’ biggest offseason roster decision? Pro Football Focus said it’s all about how Washington chooses to use its cap space.
Going from making the NFC Championship game to having the third-most money to spend in free agency is a pinch-me scenario for Dan Quinn and Adam Peters. This offseason will prove to be a watershed one for Washington, and that $78 million needs to be used to the best degree.
The Commanders’ undoing all season long was their defense, which finished 30th in success rate, 29th in expected points added per play and 29th in team PFF coverage grade. Pass rush, linebacker and cornerback all need work, even after the team added Marshon Lattimore in the middle of the 2024 season. Meanwhile, Washington’s receiver corps needs another dynamic talent next to Terry McLaurin (84.8 PFF receiving grade), while both tackle spots could be better.
Anticipate Washington to make a big signing or two on defense, likely in both the front-four and the secondary. From there, finding complementary pieces to round out the roster seems shrewd. What Peters should avoid is splurging too heavily, thereby handicapping his remaining money to go around.
There are mixed opinions on what the Commanders will do. Some think they’ll be aggressive, while others think they will employ a more measured approach. Rest assured, general manager Adam Peters knows the roster must improve. Just don’t expect a splash move, such as signing Tee Higgins. Washington will look to add multiple quality players this offseason.