Commanders could sign Jadeveon Clowney
We saved the most obvious two for last.
As mentioned previously, the Washington Commanders are desperately short of legitimate pass-rushing options heading into the new campaign. Adam Peters seems confident in the options available, but he won't hesitate to ring the changes if things aren't developing as expected.
Ben Standig from The Athletic believes something could happen after the first week of camp, depending on how things shake out. If those already around meet expectations, Peters will likely hold firm. If things aren't progressing as anticipated, that's when a new reinforcement or two could come into the fold.
There aren't many remaining on the market with more glowing credentials than Jadeveon Clowney. The former No. 1 pick out of South Carolina was released by the Carolina Panthers this offseason as part of the team's youth movement on the edge. He was blindsided by the move, but confident there was still plenty of good football left.
Clowney might not have reached the hype expected as a generational prospect coming out of college, but he's experienced and productive. The sack numbers are solid enough, and the veteran remains a huge asset against the run. Much will depend on the money involved, but there are far worse avenues the Commanders could go down.
Commanders could sign Za'Darius Smith
There's another edge rusher whom the Commanders have been heavily linked with throughout the offseason. Adam Peters hasn't bitten as yet, which suggests that Washington is waiting it out before deciding on anything more drastic.
Za'Darius Smith is an accomplished pass-rusher. He didn't get a new deal from the Detroit Lions and remains on the proverbial scrap heap. That's surprising when one considers his glittering credentials, but it would be a bombshell of epic proportions if he didn't sign somewhere before Week 1.
Smith is a three-time Pro Bowler with 69 career sacks. This would be nothing more than a short-term fix for the Commanders, but they are in win-now mode. Finding band-aid solutions capable of providing upgrades now is a lot better than nothing, with Washington's window for another Super Bowl firmly open.
This also represents an attractive destination for any veteran free agent. The Commanders are an NFL hotbed after being buried in disgraceful dysfunction under the previous owner. It's an exciting project that Smith (or anyone else on this list) would jump at the chance to join.
The Commanders have a real shot next season. Signing Smith wouldn't result in a monumental shift, but it would get them a lot closer.