The Washington Commanders are embarking on a crucial offseason that will define this regime's tenure.
This ambitious project took a massive step back in 2025 after reaching the NFC Championship game in the first campaign under head coach Dan Quinn. Changes are underway, and the time for half-measures is over.
Pressure is building. Quinn replaced both prominent coordinators, and several other changes have been made to the coaching staff. Considering what's at stake in 2026, fans are expecting drastic changes to the team's playing personnel in its quest to get back among the challengers.
The Commanders have money to spend in free agency, and leading insiders are expecting Washington to be among the more aggressive teams. Peters could have upwards of $100 million available with additional moves, but this counts for nothing if the front-office leader cannot find the correct reinforcements.
There needs to be a shift in approach. The Commanders have to get younger. At the same time, they need to find accomplished veterans with plenty of life in the tank. Free agency will be important, but keeping an eye on the inevitable early releases at this time of year could also yield some tempting options.
With this in mind, here are 10 salary-cap cut candidates around the league for the Commanders to keep tabs on this spring.
All financial figures provided by Over the Cap.
Salary-cap cut candidates the Commanders should monitor closely during the 2026 offseason
Commanders should monitor T.J. Hockenson
With veteran Pro Bowl tight end Zach Ertz likely done after tearing his ACL late in the season, the Washington Commanders need another capable option to provide quarterback Jayden Daniels with a security blanket across the middle. Ben Sinnott hasn't shown enough to be classed as a TE1 right now, and John Bates is seen more as a blocking specialist.
Given Washington's need for immediate improvements, an experienced, dependable presence is essential. He's dealt with some injury problems over the last two seasons, but T.J. Hockenson would be a lively candidate to fill Ertz's void if he's released by the Minnesota Vikings.
The Vikings are in some salary-cap distress. Cutting Hockenson would save Minnesota $15.96 million in cap space with a post-June 1 release. It wouldn't take long for potential suitors to show their hand if this became a reality, and it wouldn't be a great shock to see the Commanders among those looking to secure his services.
This looks like a great fit. Hockenson will also be 29 next season, so there should be several more good years left if he gets a clear run of luck on the health front.