K'Lavon Chaisson - Commanders DE/OLB
The Washington Commanders set out their biggest offseason priority pretty early in the process. General manager Adam Peters wanted to reinforce the edge-rushing room after the options available last season fell completely flat. Once Dorance Armstrong Jr.'s breakout campaign was cruelly cut short by injury, this unit was a lost cause.
Peters achieved this objective. Odafe Oweh was the big money signing in free agency. Charles Omenihu signed a one-year deal, bringing experience and versatility to the ranks. Joshua Josephs was taken in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, whose explosiveness provides immediate rotational upside.
The Commanders also secured the services of K'Lavon Chaisson, which brings significant intrigue. Despite a longer-term offer on the table from the New Orleans Saints, the pass-rusher chose to bet on himself in Washington with another one-year deal. And if he can build on his legitimate breakout with the New England Patriots, he'll be in line for a much bigger payday next spring.
Chaisson's route to reach this point has not been easy. The 2020 first-round pick failed to meet expectations with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He was cut by the Carolina Panthers before playing a competitive snap. Things looked incredibly bleak, but things are much more promising now.
Urgency remains high for Chaisson. Fans should expect flashes of quality throughout Washington's mandatory minicamp.
Chig Okonkwo - Commanders TE
Zach Ertz left a significant impression during his two seasons with the Washington Commanders. The veteran tight end provided quarterback Jayden Daniels with an assured pass-catching presence across the middle and in the red zone. His locker-room leadership was another major plus, but his time with the franchise had run its course.
Even before Ertz suffered a gruesome torn ACL during a mid-air collision against the Minnesota Vikings, it was clear that a fresh start was needed. Adam Peters agreed, signing Chig Okonkwo to a three-year, $27 million deal in free agency.
Okonkwo performed well in difficult circumstances last season with the Tennessee Titans. His athleticism, ability to get his body upfield aggressively, and physicality at the catch point could be a revelation in David Blough's offense. The impressive start made by the new arrival at OTAs only whets the appetite further.
The Commanders emphasized getting younger and more dynamic across the board this offseason. Okonkwo ticks those boxes, and this is the best situation he's ever had as an NFL pro. The former Maryland standout is aiming to become a genuine focal point. He has the tools to achieve that objective.
Excitement is growing around Okonkwo. A dominant minicamp will see hype reach even new levels.
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