Commanders must consider Khalil Mack
The Washington Commanders had no problem with signing aging players last season. So long as they were confident they could flourish on the field and make an impact in the locker room, age didn't matter.
Zach Ertz and Bobby Wagner fitted the mold. They came into the franchise with clear objectives and achieved them in no uncertain terms. Considering the Commanders are already in win-now mode, it's an avenue they could go down again depending on which players become available.
While Khalil Mack is firmly in his career twilight, the production in 2024 remained extremely high. The former first-round pick contemplated retirement this offseason before announcing his decision to continue playing. The Los Angeles Chargers want to keep him around, but the Commanders could strike for a short-term option capable of providing an immediate upgrade on the edge.
Mack only gained six sacks in 2024. However, his ability to set the edge against the run saw him emerge as one of the league's best in this discipline. He led the league in batted passes and had 49 pressures, so his production was well-rounded en route to yet another Pro Bowl selection.
This project could entice Mack, although leaving Jim Harbaugh and the California sunshine behind would be difficult. He's not getting any younger, but neither were Ertz and Wagner when they joined the ranks.
Commanders must consider Josh Sweat
If the Commanders want to go bolder, one name stands out above all else. Something that would significantly dent their bitter division rival for good measure.
Josh Sweat made himself a ton of money during the 2024 campaign. He was a relentless force coming off the edge as the Philadelphia Eagles won the championship. His electrifying Super Bowl performance against the Kansas City Chiefs only added dollars to his demands.
Sweat gained 10.5 sacks in total (regular season and playoffs). He displayed improved gap discipline against the run, recognizing where the football was going and arriving at the contact point with violence. His ability to produce in the biggest moments won't go unnoticed by others around the league if the Eagles let him test free agency.
The Commanders would be wise to inquire. Placing a call to see if Sweat is willing to leave one NFC East team for another comes with benefits aplenty. This also represents a huge upgrade on anything Washington has in its edge rushing room right now.
This won't be cheap. Sweat will be among the most coveted free agents if the Eagles let things get that far. The former fourth-round pick is expected to get more than $20 million per season on his next deal. Whether the Commanders are willing to pay remains to be seen.