Chig Okonkwo - Commanders TE
There was no chance of bringing back veteran tight end Zach Ertz this offseason. For all his qualities, the Pro Bowler was aging, and the torn ACL he suffered during a gruesome mid-air collision against the Minnesota Vikings all but sealed his fate.
The Washington Commanders needed a rethink. They needed someone with more dynamism and ability to create opportunities after the catch. General manager Adam Peters had a primary target in mind, signing Chig Okonkwo to a three-year, $27 million deal.
This brings significant intrigue. Okonkwo performed well in difficult circumstances with the Tennessee Titans last season. He's got the size, length, and athleticism to create mismatches. New offensive coordinator David Blough promises to utilize the tight end position heavily, and the Maryland product will be a focal point.
Given the concerns about Washington's wide receiver options outside of Terry McLaurin, there is real optimism that Okonkwo can become a legitimate focal point. His imposing presence during the Commanders' offseason program caught everyone's attention. One only has to look at the excitement quarterback Jayden Daniels has for his arrival and potential to see that.
Okonkwo believes this system can provide the spark that finally unleashes his true potential. Looking at the early signs, he might just be onto something.
Nick Cross - Commanders S
While the Commanders didn't do much to bolster their safety options this offseason, Adam Peters did make one free-agent investment. And given the price tag, Nick Cross already has the makings of a steal.
The Commanders needed someone to set the tone in the middle of the defensive back end. Peters worked hard to solidify the front seven, which should be faster and more explosive. The addition of Cross provides new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones with a legitimate tone-setter, and the impression made over early offseason workouts couldn't have been more impressive.
Cross was as advertised. He's a strong, savvy player who knows when to pick his spots. He anticipates things extremely well, is quick enough to reach the contact point, and has violent tendencies that seem tailor-made for Jones' schematic concepts.
Just who'll line up alongside him is the big question. That particular dynamic should become clearer the longer we go into the summer, but the former Maryland standout promises to be an integral part of any defensive progression that comes Washington's way next season.
The Commanders believe they have a good player in Cross. In Jones' scheme with the upgrades around him, he's got the scope to be a great one.
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