4 free agents Commanders deserve credit for avoiding

2. Christian Kirk

It was reported — or at least hinted at — that the Commanders would be in the market for a receiver in free agency. Those plans likely fell by the wayside after the Carson Wentz trade, but Washington still had the necessary resources to make a splash signing, even if it meant backloading a contract.

There are multiple WRs we would’ve liked to see Washington pursue, but the front office deserves a pat on the back for not getting tangled up with the coveted Christian Kirk, whose Jaguars contract absolutely capsized the market.

Despite never registering a 1,000-yard season or more than 80 catches and 110 targets, Kirk received a four-year, $72 million deal with Jacksonville. The contract includes $37 million guarantees and his $18 million annual salary ranks 10th at the position, ahead of Mike Evans, Cooper Kupp and Stefon Diggs.

That’s WR1 money for a receiver who’s probably best served as a No. 2 option and Washington was smart to not get involved. After all, they already have a similar profile of receiver in Curtis Samuel.

There’s no denying Kirk’s talent and we’re excited to see how he jives with Trevor Lawrence, but $18 million per year and $37 million guaranteed? No thanks. Give us one of Garrett Wilson, Drake London, Chris Olave or Treylon Burks instead.