5 defensive tackles the Commanders could sign after Jonathan Allen blow
By Dean Jones
Commanders could sign Jonah Williams
- Minnesota Vikings practice squad
Having someone with versatility is something for the Washington Commanders to explore. They'll give Johnny Newton and Phidarian Mathis a legitimate chance to replicate Jonathan Allen's production. Efe Obada is a useful pass-rushing asset on the interior, but it's also worth remembering that edge rusher Dorance Armstrong Jr. could be on the shelf as he awaits further tests in the coming days.
Adding someone else to take Allen's roster spot wouldn't be the worst idea in the world. Taking Jonah Williams off the Minnesota Vikings practice squad could be worth its weight in gold.
Williams has been active twice for the Vikings this season. He's got experience as a defensive end or tackle throughout his four-year career. The former undrafted free agent out of Weber State is also a hard worker and passionate figure, fitting into the culture Dan Quinn is trying to build in Washington.
Asking Williams to come in and provide an instant boost to the defensive front is unfair and unlikely. But he's got the physical gifts to be a situational presence who could come in if Newton, Mathis, or Obada fluff their lines.
Commanders could sign Al Woods
There aren't many more experienced options remaining on the market than Al Woods. The well-traveled interior force is 37 years old, so there's no telling what kind of shape he's in or whether he wants to continue playing after a long career. However, there's no harm in the Commanders putting in a call to find out one way or another.
Woods was an intimidating nose tackle in his prime. He's got experience as a defensive tackle in a 4-3 or even as a defensive end in a 3-4 front. This goes away somewhat from the youth movement in Washington, but they don't need anything more than a band-aid solution for half a season before attention turns to Adam Peters' recruitment plans in 2025.
Perhaps the NFL has moved on from Woods after he spent last season with the New York Jets. Perhaps he's moved on from the game without an offer that motivated him enough. There's no telling for sure, but the Commanders' newfound momentum might make him think twice if they make an offer.
Jonathan Allen's loss will be difficult to overcome. How much bearing it'll have on the team's rapidly growing expectations in 2024 is debatable, so it will be interesting to see how Peters and Quinn approach matters.
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