Who's going to replace Jeremy Chinn?
The Washington Commanders let Jeremy Chinn walk in free agency. His production last season warranted another financial commitment, but general manager Adam Peters didn't believe the athletically gifted safety was worth the money he got offered by the Las Vegas Raiders.
That was a disappointment to the fans who believed Chinn could become a long-term piece of the puzzle. Peters isn't in the business of overpaying if he doesn't think it's worth it. However, it leaves the Commanders facing a conundrum about who will replace the former second-round pick as the team's dynamic safety/linebacker hybrid.
Will Harris should get the first shot at securing the role. He's got some likable traits, but he doesn't have the same dynamism Chinn brings to the table. He's also seen more as a typical backend safety option, so placing the defensive back out of his comfort zone is a gamble.
Perhaps one of the young, athletic hopefuls such as Tyler Owens or Dominique Hampton can make the transition. Perhaps the Commanders could switch incoming draft pick Kain Medrano into the role, although his tackling awareness and technique need to improve significantly before confidence increases. Perhaps Quan Martin will spend more time in the box with the physical gifts at his disposal.
It's something to watch over the summer. One couldn't dismiss the possibility of another capable veteran coming onto the squad either.
Commanders' veteran contract extensions
Now that the Commanders have navigated free agency and the draft successfully, Adam Peters can turn his attention to other priorities. This brings the contract status of two veteran stars firmly under the microscope.
One decision looks simpler than the other.
Wide receiver Terry McLaurin has one more year on his deal. He remains a core part of the Commanders' plans thanks to his high-level production on the field and undisputed leadership credentials in the locker room. Peters wants to make him part of the franchise moving forward. Resolving this matter sooner rather than later would give everyone a massive boost.
Extending McLaurin won't be cheap, but he's worth every cent coming his way.
Laremy Tunsil's situation is more complicated. The offseason's marquee trade acquisition revealed that he's made his contract feelings known to those in power. The elite left tackle still has two years remaining on his current agreement, but there's only $10 million left in guarantees and nothing in 2026.
Tunsil wants more long-term financial security. Peters could provide it to avoid any unnecessary complications. However, he might also adopt a wait-and-see approach before giving him a new deal.
There are ways to work around it. The Commanders could guarantee more of his 2026 salary, which would provide them with breathing space to fully assess Tunsil's performance and overall fit.