The Washington Commanders have a lot of money to spend in free agency, which could rise even further once additional moves are made. However, having money and spending it wisely are two very different things.
Fans and respected insiders expect the Commanders to be supremely aggressive after just five wins in 2025. Nothing much went according to the projected script, but the turnaround could be quick for a team that reached the NFC Championship Game in head coach Dan Quinn's first campaign at the helm.
Pressure has risen. Quinn took the bold step of replacing both coordinators, which will have a ripple effect. The roster also needs a massive upgrade in almost every area. Not every free agent will depart, as evidenced by new deals for Pro Bowl punter Tress Way and versatile offensive lineman Andrew Wylie. But it would be a big surprise if there weren't considerable alterations in the weeks ahead.
Not every signing is going to be a major splash. That's fine, but only if Peters can find the sort of cheap veterans who can assist Washington's chances of getting back on track at the first time of asking.
With this in mind, here are seven bargain free agents who could potentially save the Commanders from another demoralizing collapse in 2026.
Bargain free agents who could save the Commanders from another collapse
Commanders could sign Najee Harris
New offensive coordinator David Blough believes that more is required in the running back room. The Washington Commanders remain confident in running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt's chances of becoming a legitimate long-term force, but he cannot do it alone. Going down the draft route is a possibility. Adding to the ranks via free agency cannot be entirely dismissed, either.
There should be some decent options available to provide short-term relief. The Commanders won't get the chance to acquire Breece Hall, who is expected to be tagged by the New York Jets. Even so, Adam Peters can find an experienced figure if he wishes.
It's a big gamble considering the injury suffered last season, but Najee Harris' encouraging progress on the health front makes him an intriguing possibility who wouldn't cost much to acquire.
Harris went over 1,000 rushing yards in each of his first four seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers. His big move to the Los Angeles Chargers fell flat after a torn Achilles in his third outing, ending his chances of making an impression almost before they began. All signs are pointing to a full recovery, so there are far worse avenues the Commanders could go down.