3 remaining free agents who could bolster Commanders’ DL depth

2. Linval Joseph

A former second-round pick of the Giants back in 2010, Joseph spent the bulk of his career with the Vikings from 2014-19. He made two Pro Bowls during that span in 2016 and 2017, across which he compiled a whopping 145 tackles, 7.5 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, 27 quarterback hits and three forced fumbles.

While Joseph’s world-beating days are far behind him, he was an important piece of the Chargers’ defensive line the last two seasons, posting a respectable 68.7 player grade from PFF in 2020 before compiling a staggering 83.0 pass rush grade last year, when he played the lowest snap share of his career at 58 percent.

In other words, Joseph, though regressing with age, still hasn’t lost his touch. With Washington in need of a fourth interior DL to deploy behind Allen, Payne and Mathis, signing Joseph makes all the sense in the world.

Entering his age-34 season, Joseph would likely be open to a part-time role and his experience and leadership skills in the locker room would only help what is undeniably a young defensive line room. Given his lack of impact against the run, a pass-rush specialist’s role would be perfect for the 12-year pro.