3 realistic moves Commanders should make next in free agency

2. Re-sign Cornelius Lucas

The Commanders are set at left and right tackle for next season, but there’s no room for complacency in the NFL. After all, 2021 second-rounder Sam Cosmi was limited to just nine games as a rookie due to injury.

While left tackle Charles Leno hasn’t missed a start since 2016, can you really bank on that trend continuing into the future? The former Pro Bowler will turn 31 in October and the law of averages suggests he’s due to miss time.

Regardless, re-signing Cornelius Lucas should one of the front office’s top remaining priorities in free agency. That could prove difficult, however, as Lucas is no longer one of the league’s best-kept secrets among offensive linemen.

According to Pro Football Focus, Lucas has logged three straight seasons of a 72.2 player grade or better while playing at least 500 snaps. During that span, he’s allowed just seven QB hits and his 79.8 pass-blocking grade ranks 25th at the tackle position. Pretty impressive for someone who split time at left and right tackle.

While Lucas is still testing the market, ESPN’s John Keim understands the Commanders have kept in touch with Lucas. That suggests they have interest in re-signing the veteran swing tackle, and that’s great news for a team that can’t afford to be short on OL depth after last season’s injury overload.

Re-sign Lucas, then focus on signing outside free agents.