Van Jefferson Jr. - Commanders WR
General manager Adam Peters rightfully prioritized defensive reinforcements in free agency. Nobody was complaining too much about that, but things would have looked much different if a couple of big swings at the wide receiver position had paid off.
The Washington Commanders went all guns blazing to acquire Alec Pierce. They were reportedly ready to make him a sizable offer, but the Indianapolis Colts kept him around. Peters then turned his attention to Romeo Doubs. He opted to join the New England Patriots instead.
Washington wasn't left empty-handed. Peters brought back Dyami Brown after one season away from the club. The Commanders also signed Van Jefferson Jr. to a one-year deal, but these are seen as depth pieces capable of raising competition for places.
That increases the stakes for Jefferson. Brown has the head start, having an already developed chemistry with quarterback Jayden Daniels. Terry McLaurin, Treylon Burks, Luke McCaffrey, and Jaylin Lane are all but assured of their roster spots. There is also a strong chance another dynamic pass-catcher arrives at some stage during the 2026 NFL Draft.
Any further arrivals will only make things more difficult for Jefferson. The 2020 second-round pick out of Florida cannot put a foot wrong this summer.
Ahkello Witherspoon - Commanders CB
The Commanders made some inevitable changes to their cornerback room this offseason. Whether they have enough right now is highly debatable, but there are still moves Adam Peters can make during the draft and from the remaining veteran pool to strengthen the ranks.
Marshon Lattimore was released as expected, saving $18.5 million on the salary cap. Jonathan Jones crossed divisional lines by signing for the Philadelphia Eagles. Noah Igbinoghene landed a significant and surprising opportunity by joining the Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks. The staff remains confident in Trey Amos and Mike Sainristil, but that wouldn't be enough.
Washington kicked off its free agency by acquiring Amik Robertson. He's a solid pro and respected leader, but he's undersized with obvious limitations. The Commanders also signed Ahkello Witherspoon after a successful visit, rekindling his connection to Peters.
Witherspoon was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers when Peters held a powerful position in the front office. He's got some solid previous production to call upon. Staying healthy throughout his career has been a much bigger problem.
That is the key. If Witherspoon gets a better run of luck on the health front, he's got a chance to become a rotational piece. Any further injury complications could see the Commanders end this experiment before it begins.