Commanders could sign Aaron Banks
The Washington Commanders offensive line saw some growth during the 2024 season. However, general manager Adam Peters won't be settling in pursuit of solidifying the protection around quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Most of the attention centers on the two offensive tackle positions. While Peters will examine upgrades on the edge, there's also a complex issue on the interior that needs to be resolved effectively by the Commanders this offseason.
Sam Cosmi's presence was sorely missed in the NFC Championship game. The prolific right guard suffered a torn ACL in the divisional round versus the Detroit Lions and is expected to miss most if not all of 2025. Peters must pivot effectively, perhaps with a move for someone he knows well from a previous stop.
Peters was part of the San Francisco 49ers' brain trust that drafted Aaron Banks. The interior force boasts experience at either guard position, spending the entire 2024 campaign on the left-hand side. Washington could transition him to the right next season in Cosmi's absence before switching him to the left in 2026 at the expense of Nick Allegretti.
Banks won't be cheap. The former second-round pick out of Notre Dame is expected to have a robust market in free agency. Considering the money already tied to Cosmi and center Tyler Biadasz, Peters might look for a cheaper alternative when push comes to shove.
Commanders could sign D.J. Reed
The Commanders made one huge splash at cornerback last season when they traded for Marshon Lattimore. Reports suggest Adam Peters also put in a call to the New York Jets to see what it might take to acquire D.J. Reed.
Those talks didn't evolve into anything more. But with the gifted defensive back set to enter free agency, the Commanders have a free run to speak with the player should they wish.
Reed is arguably the best free-agent cornerback available this offseason. He's consistent, productive, and never backs down from a challenge. That not only makes him a good fit for Joe Whitt Jr.'s defense, but it should also ensure the former fifth-round pick fits well into the locker room for good measure.
Washington would have plenty of competition for Reed's services if they threw their hat into the ring. He's a fiery competitor who thrives in coverage and willingly assists against the run. The Kansas State product specializes in the slot, which would allow Mike Sainristil to continue on the boundary after transitioning seamlessly during the 2024 campaign.
After spending the last couple of years languishing on a struggling Jets squad, Reed should relish the prospect of joining a team primed for another bold playoff bid in 2025.