Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters will have another busy offseason. Last year, Peters just took the job and immediately began flipping Washington’s roster, signing over 20 free agents in the spring and nine draft picks.
This year, Peters’ job is different. He will use Washington’s salary cap room to build a potential Super Bowl roster around franchise quarterback Jayden Daniels. But before Peters looks elsewhere, he must determine which of the Commanders’ 31 free agents he wants to retain in 2025.
Some of the more notable Washington free agents are linebacker Bobby Wagner, tight end Zach Ertz, safety Jeremy Chinn, punter Tress Way and wide receiver Dyami Brown. Ertz let it be known he wants to keep playing and in Washington.
What about Wagner? Many believe he’ll return for a 14th season in 2025. Will that be with the Commanders?
Pro Football Focus recently revealed one free agent for every NFL team that it cannot afford to lose. Wagner was the choice for Washington.
If Wagner is willing to give it a go for another year, the Commanders shouldn’t hesitate to let him. The ageless wonder has had another incredible season, boasting an 88.3 PFF overall grade that ranks third among qualified linebackers. He is the leader of the Commanders’ defense — and its best player — and his departure would be a huge loss for the team.
You could debate Wagner being Washington’s best defensive player. That honor likely goes to fellow linebacker Frankie Luvu, but Wagner is still excellent, even if he has lost a step.
You could make the same argument for Ertz. Both 34 and outstanding locker-room leaders, Ertz and Wagner proved they could play at a high level. Peters and head coach Dan Quinn know a lot of faces will change next season, so they want to keep that “brotherhood” in the locker room. Wagner and Ertz played a significant part in helping rebuild the culture in only one year.
So, while they were great on the field, they were even better in the locker room, and that’s why Wagner (and Ertz) will likely be back for another run in Washington.