Although the Washington Commanders are coming off their best campaign in decades, general manager Adam Peters still has a significant amount of hard work ahead this offseason. With free agency on the immediate horizon, it promises to be a frantic few weeks that will shape the franchise's chances in 2025.
Peters has 28 free agents. Some will be extended as the Commanders look to reward those who gave so much during the previous campaign. Washington is also armed with substantial financial resources to acquire some immediate difference-makers in pursuit of getting over the hump.
The Commanders won't be reckless with their spending. They have a long-term plan and find themselves in a stronger position than anticipated entering Peters' second recruitment period. At the same time, their Super Bowl window is open. The time to strike is now.
Washington is an attractive destination again. They have a franchise quarterback on a rookie contract. There are holes to fill, but Peters can be aggressive if the right opportunities present themselves.
Adding to the defense is among Peters' biggest priorities. This bears more significance in the trenches and bolstering the team's edge-rushing options. Nothing else will do in pursuit of keeping pace with the Philadelphia Eagles.
With this in mind, here are five free-agent edge rushers the Commanders must consider in 2025.
Free-agent edge rushers the Commanders must consider in 2025
Commanders must consider Azeez Ojulari
Azeez Ojulari was the subject of trade speculation before the 2024 trade deadline. No deal materialized, so the New York Giants have a big decision to make regarding the promising edge defender.
Ojulari's been a dependable rotational edge rusher throughout his career. He's missed time with injury, but the impressive flashes suggest he could thrive further in a better environment. The former Georgia standout is versatile and athletic — two traits Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. look for in their defenders.
Gaining consistent momentum was difficult for Ojulari in 2024. He still managed six sacks and 22 pressures from 58 percent of the team's defensive snaps, but the player was behind Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux in the pecking order. This represents a good chance for him to spread his wings and carve out a bigger role elsewhere.
The Washington Commanders should inquire if he hits the market. Much will depend on the money involved, but Ojulari is young, entering his prime, and looking for a chance. That was an essential element of the team's recruitment during Adam Peters' first offseason. Weakening a division rival — albeit a weaker one considering their desperate search for quarterback help — only sweetens the pot.