5 bargain free agents Commanders should already be thinking about in 2025
By Dean Jones
Commanders could sign Tutu Atwell
Jayden Daniels has proven he can spearhead the Washington Commanders' renaissance. What the rookie quarterback needs is better weapons in the passing game to take that next step.
Nobody is dependable aside from Pro Bowl pass-catcher Terry McLaurin. Noah Brown's flashed promise, but crucial drops in key moments are an ongoing frustration. Olamide Zaccheaus, Dyami Brown, and Luke McCaffrey haven't come to the fore as yet, so expect the Commanders to address this as a matter of urgency in 2025.
Many fans are hoping Adam Peters makes a bold splash for Cincinnati Bengals wideout Tee Higgins. That'll be costly, so examining alternatives that provide more value cannot be completely dismissed.
This brings Tutu Atwell firmly under the microscope. The former second-round selection flourished in an important role with the Los Angeles Rams earlier in the season. When the star duo of Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua returned from injury, he went back to the fringes.
Atwell is probably relishing the prospect of moving elsewhere and becoming a potential focal point. He's got the talent, so the Commanders could do a lot worse than examining his credentials in greater detail.
Commanders could sign Joseph Ossai
Finding productive edge rushers is something the Commanders need to do this offseason. Dorance Armstrong Jr. hasn't reached his billing. Dante Fowler Jr. is worthy of an extension after securing 8.5 sacks so far, but the price is only going up as the veteran looks to cash in for the final time on the wrong side of 30 years old.
Going down the draft route is preferred. This is an exceptional class for defensive linemen for Adam Peters to take advantage of. Adding a high-upside individual from the free-agent pool is another realistic avenue of pursuit.
Joseph Ossai fits the mold. The versatile defender can play as an edge or at the defensive second level with minimal fuss. He's been a useful rotational piece over his three years with the Cincinnati Bengals so far. The former third-round selection is also emerging into a decent special teams contributor this season for the first time.
Ossai has the physical attributes that should fit into Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s scheme well. Having the opportunity to join Washington's ambitious project is something that could get the Commanders a good deal in this scenario.