Deatrich Wise Jr. - Commanders DE
As previously mentioned, the Washington Commanders are banking on veterans signed to one-year deals in pursuit of fortifying their edge options on defense. It's a risky strategy from general manager Adam Peters, but expect a more explosive pass-rusher to join the ranks in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Deatrich Wise Jr. was one of the proven performers acquired by the Commanders this offseason. He emerged as an outstanding player for the New England Patriots and came up through the Bill Belichick years. You don't do that without high-caliber production, the right attitude, and emerging leadership.
Wise's role was reduced last season as the Patriots embarked on their youth movement. The Commanders are at the opposite end of the spectrum after reaching the NFC Championship game in 2024. Having players who've been around winning operations previously is integral.
Just what Wise's role will be hasn't been determined. He could start opposite Dorance Armstrong Jr. at the defensive end spot. He could also be a key depth piece if the Commanders find someone capable of starting immediately during the draft.
Either way, the former fourth-round pick out of Arkansas with 34 career sacks will be relishing the prospect of helping an ascending team take that next step. Whether that's enough to get another deal in 2026 is another matter.
Deebo Samuel Sr. - Commanders WR
This one would be the most disappointing. But wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr.'s long-term outlook deserves closer examination.
The Commanders thought Samuel had a lot of good football left. They managed to get the All-Pro for nothing more than a fifth-round selection, which could be an absolute steal if he bounces back from a down year by his typically high standards in 2025.
Samuel is eager to silence his doubters. He's already working hard to ensure peak physical fitness when the time comes to resume team activities. The Commanders are counting on his versatility and playmaking prowess to form a devastating wideout tandem with Terry McLaurin.
They also hedged their bets. Instead of giving Samuel an extension this offseason following the trade, Peters guaranteed his 2025 salary and added an extra $3 million in potential incentives. This kept the wideout happy with some extra urgency in pursuit of another deal next spring.
What comes next is down to Samuel. If he thrives in new surroundings, leads from the front, and produces the goods when called upon, the decision to offer him another contract will be an easy one.
If the former second-round pick out of South Carolina cannot meet expectations, a situation could emerge where the Commanders cut their losses.
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