3 players the Commanders were smart to avoid in 2023 free agency
By Dean Jones
Commanders were right to avoid Derek Carr
After the Washington Commanders’ trade for Carson Wentz blew up in their face, some serious questions awaited head coach Ron Rivera at football’s most prestigious position once again. This has been a hallmark of the coach’s career aside from the few years he had a legitimate NFL MVP in Cam Newton.
Wentz’s contract was at least set up in a way that allowed the Commanders to move on and save themselves $26.17 million along the way. Something that allowed them to fortify their offensive line and get stud defensive tackle Daron Payne tied down to a long-term deal.
This doesn’t solve the complications under center, obviously. But the Commanders decided that veteran gambles were a thing of the past after resisting the urge to make a serious offer to Derek Carr following his release by the Las Vegas Raiders.
Carr made the Pro Bowl almost by default in 2022, but his production was nowhere near the level expected. This is despite Las Vegas trading for his old college teammate and All-Pro wide receiver Davante Adams.
Even though Carr has a lot to prove, it didn’t stop the New Orleans Saints from handing the one-time Fresno State star a whopping four-year, $150 million contract with a $28.5 million signing bonus and $100 million guaranteed. An offer that blew everyone else out of the water.
The Commanders couldn’t justify this sort of move given their current financial plight. And just how much Carr would move the needle is questionable in any case.