Which pending free agents should the Washington Commanders aggressively pursue in 2023?
Although the Washington Commanders failed to secure postseason football this season, it wasn’t all doom and gloom. Aside from the complications at quarterback and across the offensive line, there is enough to suggest further strides can be made next season given the talent across the roster.
This makes it essential for Washington to bring in the right pieces. Especially if head coach Ron Rivera wants to avoid the growing speculation about his future with the prospect of a new ownership group coming into the fold before competitive action begins again.
The Commanders can clear a ton of salary-cap space to become significant players in free agency. Any remaining holes after that can be filled via the 2023 NFL Draft, where they have eight selections currently.
It promises to be a fascinating offseason for fans. With this in mind, here are five free agents the Commanders should aggressively pursue in 2023.
Free Agent No. 1
Commanders should target Andrew Wylie
- Offensive Tackle | Kansas City Chiefs
After coming to life for the Kansas City Chiefs during their memorable Super Bowl triumph, Andrew Wylie should get plenty of interest if he hits the market. A starring performance in their win over the Philadelphia Eagles only enhanced his claims versus a stout defensive front.
Finding reinforcements across the offensive line is almost guaranteed. The Washington Commanders got no consistency whatsoever from this group in 2022, so Wiley could be someone they covet depending on the cost.
Commanders should target Bradley Bozeman
- Center | Carolina Panthers
Another position on the offensive line that could use an upgrade is the center spot. Chase Roullier’s inability to stay healthy over the last two seasons means he cannot be relied upon and the veteran might be a cut candidate after June 1 considering the savings involved.
Although going down the college route should be considered with a strong class emanating from the college ranks, getting an instant difference-maker via free agency is something else for the Washington Commanders to ponder. This could lead them to Bradley Bozeman if he’s allowed to test the market.
Bozeman was an absolute revelation for the Carolina Panthers in 2022 when he finally got into the lineup. His consistency in all blocking phases and exceptional pre-snap communication was a tremendous boost for a unit that emerged as one of the NFL’s most improved under the guidance of offensive line coach James Campen.
The Panthers will likely do everything in their power to keep continuity and extend Bozeman. The former Alabama star wasted no time in becoming a strong presence within the community, which is another important factor that cannot be overlooked when negotiations begin.
If the Panthers and Bozeman cannot work out a new deal, then the Commanders should be among the first teams making a call. Even if the lineman is expected to command around $12 million per season on his next contract, according to Spotrac.
Commanders should target Jacoby Brissett
- Quarterback | Cleveland Browns
The Washington Commanders are set to give Sam Howell an opportunity to become the team’s No. 1 option under center next season. There was a lot to like about his performance when finally given a chance in Week 18 against the Dallas Cowboys, which was encouraging and could mean more is on the way with additional improvements next time around.
Regardless of whether Howell starts or not, the Commanders should seek a contingency plan or two with Taylor Heinicke out of contract and Carson Wents likely to be released. Adding another option from the college ranks is a possibility, with someone like Jacoby Brissett sure to come under consideration.
Brissett filled in admirably for the Cleveland Browns until Deshaun Watson came back from his lengthy suspension. In fact, the team regressed considerably without his influence as their marquee addition worked his way back into true football shape.
The former third-round pick was efficient with his distribution, provided a dual threat when required, and was careful with the football more often than not. Something that’ll do his chances of finding immediate employment the world of good when he enters free agency as expected.
This is something that should interest the Commanders from a depth standpoint if nothing else. Brissett’s leadership would also be a huge asset for Howell as he looks to become a productive NFL starter in only his second season.
Commanders should target Marcus Peters
- Cornerback | Baltimore Ravens
It’s not just the offensive line that needs a new face or two this off-season. The Washington Commanders could also do with a cornerback capable of providing a physical presence a potentially shutting down one side of the field along the way.
Again, finding one from the college level represents a cheaper, longer-term solution. But considering how hot Ron Rivera’s seat might become under new ownership, examining the free agency pool in pursuit of instant solutions could be an avenue Washington goes down, too.
Even though he wouldn’t be cheap, Marcus Peters is among the best veteran corners set to hit the market this year. The Baltimore Ravens have an important dilemma surrounding quarterback Lamar Jackson to solve, which means there might not be enough money to keep the defensive back around when it’s all said and done.
Peters has been one of the league’s most consistent cornerbacks for years now. His switch to the Ravens provided a renaissance of sorts, so the market should be robust if Baltimore decides to go in a different direction.
According to Spotrac, the former first-round pick is set to command an annual salary of $9.8 million on a two-year, $19.77 million deal. Not exactly chump change by any stretch, but it might be affordable for the Commanders if they can free up enough resources to make this happen.
Commanders should target Evan Engram
- Tight End | Jacksonville Jaguars
While Logan Thomas remains a solid enough option at the tight end position, his numbers do not represent a true No. 1 in a league that’s becoming more reliant on the spot for legitimate production in the passing game. Something that could lead the Washington Commanders into finding an upgrade via free agency or the 2023 NFL Draft.
This year’s draft class is loaded with talent at the position. There are also several veterans set to hit the market that could make their presence felt from the moment they get into the building.
One such individual is already familiar with the Commanders having begun his career in the NFC East. Evan Engram‘s growth with the Jacksonville Jaguars last season was encouraging, which played a significant role in star quarterback Trevor Lawrence taking a substantial leap forward in Year 2 of his professional career.
Engran’s athleticism and pass-catching prowess have never been in question. It’s staying healthy and consistent that’s been the biggest complication in recent years.
Jacksonville will fight hard to keep Engram around given his blossoming chemistry with Lawrence. If he’s allowed to test the market, this could be a tremendous security blanket for Sam Howell across the middle and in the red zone.
This would leave Thomas surplus to requirements. So cutting him after June 1 is an option with the $6.95 million saved with his early departure.