Clelin Ferrell - Commanders DE
Beefing up the defensive front should be among Adam Peters' biggest priorities this offseason. He saw first-hand how the Washington Commanders were overawed by the Philadelphia Eagles in the trenches during their NFC Championship defeat. Considering how they play the Super Bowl champions twice a year, they have to meet fire with fire.
This bears more significance at the defensive end spots, although fortifying the interior couldn't be dismissed depending on what the Commanders have planned for Jonathan Allen. Generating pressure was an issue. So was setting an effective edge against the run, which became a constant thorn in Washington's side.
Dorance Armstrong Jr. signed a three-year deal last spring and should be safe. That's not the case with almost everyone else, so it would be a surprise if Peters didn't allocate substantial resources to this key area of the field.
Much like the situation with Michael Deiter, those plans shouldn't include Clelin Ferrell. The former No. 3 overall selection came to the Commanders after a decent campaign with the San Francisco 49ers in 2023. He was unable to build on this newfound momentum, returning to the underwhelming contributor that became a draft bust with the Las Vegas Raiders.
Ferrell is a free agent this offseason. Bringing him back is out of the question based on his overall body of work throughout the campaign.
Chris Paul - Commanders OL
As mentioned previously, the Commanders' offensive line needs an injection of quality depth. Adding a starter or two couldn't be ruled out, especially on the edges. Those sitting behind the starting five weren't up to the required standard aside from veteran swing tackle Cornelius Lucas.
Chris Paul worked hard to make the team when many thought he'd be moved on. The interior lineman often flattered to deceive when utilized over his first two seasons. Although he earned his spot on the 53-man roster, the former seventh-round selection was seldom seen on the game-day squad.
Paul accumulated zero offensive reps during the regular season and 30 on special teams. He was way down the pecking order. Even when injuries struck, the coaching staff didn't have enough confidence to throw him into the fire.
Considering the need to strengthen Washington's protection in front of Jayden Daniels, it doesn't bode well for Paul's chances of seeing out his rookie deal. There aren't any financial ramifications to the Tulsa product being released ahead of time, so it's a likely scenario if enough new additions come into the fold.
Those taken in the draft's final round are always more expendable than most. Paul's done well to make it this far. Unfortunately, it could be the end of the road in Washington.