5 bargain free agents Commanders should already be thinking about in 2025
By Dean Jones
Adam Peters gutted the Washington Commanders' roster quickly and efficiently during his first few months as general manager. This was a necessary exercise considering the team's poor direction throughout Ron Rivera's tenure. The results were immediate.
Things haven't gone well for the Commanders in recent weeks. That doesn't detract from how encouraging it's been this season overall. Washington is way ahead of schedule in Year 1 of Peters' drastic overhaul. They've earned respect and are reportedly becoming an attractive destination for those looking to secure new challenges when free agency hits next spring.
Peters still has to find the right guys. There's confidence he can achieve this feat based on his promising reputation and the new culture shift in Washington. The Commanders have enough cash to swing for the fences if opportunities arise. They'll also need to find some cheaper additions who can potentially make an impact next time around.
With this in mind, here are five bargain veteran free agents the Commanders should already be thinking about heading into the 2025 offseason.
Bargain free agents the Commanders should be thinking about in 2025
Commanders could sign Israel Mukuamu
The Washington Commanders could have a serious need within their secondary next offseason. Several established stars are out of contract and might not return. Trading for stud cornerback Marshon Lattimore before the deadline does nothing to alter that fact.
Benjamin St-Juste, Michael Davis, Noah Igbinoghene, Jeremy Chinn, and Darrick Forrest are all facing uncertain futures. One or two will be retained, but Adam Peters won't hesitate to get rid of those who haven't pulled their weight.
If the Commanders want some bang for their buck, then taking a look at Israel Mukuamu wouldn't be the worst idea in the world. The former sixth-round selection knows Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. well from their time together with the Dallas Cowboys. He's got the versatility to operate anywhere in the secondary to further sweeten the pot.
Mukuamu is dependable when called upon on the defensive rotation. He's carved out a niche for himself on special teams, featuring prominently and firmly establishing himself in this key discipline. Much will depend on the money involved, but the Syracuse product could be a useful addition for depth purposes and special teams prowess.