Deatrich Wise Jr. - Commanders DE
- 2025 salary-cap hit: $3.16 million
Increasing the pass-rushing options was essential for the Washington Commanders this offseason. Adam Peters made some additions and re-signed a couple of veteran contributors, but the jury is still out as to whether the Washington Commanders have enough to go one better next time around.
There's a good chance Peters will bolster the ranks during the 2025 NFL Draft. One couldn't completely dismiss another bold trade, especially considering the situation between Trey Hendrickson and the Cincinnati Bengals remains under a cloud.
Moving forward with the options available is not an option. That said, there's a lot to like about Deatrich Wise Jr.'s outlook after he joined from the New England Patriots.
Wise spent the first eight seasons of his career in New England, emerging as a dependable defensive end and outstanding leadership presence within the locker room. Depending on what other options are acquired between now and Week 1, there's a good chance he could start opposite Dorance Armstrong Jr. if there are no major complications throughout the preparation period.
The former fourth-round pick out of Arkansas saw his role diminish in 2024. New England is going through a youth movement, and Wise went to the fringes. Even so, he's exactly the sort of player that's galvanized their career in Washington under the current regime.
Laremy Tunsil - Commanders OT
- 2025 salary-cap hit: $21.35 million
It might seem strange to see someone counting $21.35 million against the salary cap on this list. However, one cannot put a price on the potential impact Laremy Tunsil could have on the Commanders next season.
The Commanders seized an opportunity to acquire Tunsil via trade from the Houston Texans this offseason. They paid a premium for his services, but the rewards will be astronomical if the former first-round pick reaches his billing.
Tunsil is one of the league's premier left tackles and has been for a long time. He's a five-time Pro Bowler and an elite pass protector. The veteran is also a crushing force on running plays, which represents a substantial upgrade on anything Washington's had on the blindside since Trent Williams.
There is supreme confidence in Tunsil. Adam Peters and Dan Quinn lauded his potential during their media availability at the annual league meetings. He's a proven performer with a lot of good football left. The number of penalties conceded last season must come down, but having a mobile weapon like Jayden Daniels to protect should help enhance this problem area.
The Commanders had to give up plenty of draft capital for Tunsil. They are also paying him a decent amount as the fifth-highest-paid offensive tackle league-wide. But if the Ole Miss product reaches or even exceeds expectations, it'll be nothing short of priceless.
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