Commanders could sign Samson Ebukam
The Washington Commanders couldn't generate any meaningful pressure on opposing quarterbacks last season. General manager Adam Peters gambled on aging veterans and ran it back with the large majority of the 2024 squad that reached the NFC Championship game. It backfired. Von Miller was the team's sack leader, which spoke volumes about what must be done this offseason.
Peters won't ignore what happened in front of his face last season. The front-office leader acknowledged that more is needed. Fans are expecting a bold approach, with several new pieces to fortify the starting spots and add better depth. Anything less is organizational malpractice.
Samson Ebukam has dealt with injury issues in recent years, missing the entire 2024 season with a torn Achilles. He managed to feature in 14 games last time around. This should serve him well, provided there are no further complications.
Commanders could sign Sebastian Joseph-Day
Adam Peters has already stated that he will consult with Washington's two new coordinators before and during free agency. They are bringing new schemes, so they will also know what sort of additions are needed to make sure these gambles pay off handsomely for the Commanders.
This bears greater significance on defense. Speculation is rising about the Commanders switching to a 3-4 base front under Daronte Jones. If Daron Payne and Javon Kinlaw become the two 3-4 defensive ends, Washington needs a space-clogging force on the nose. Eddie Goldman has filled that role before, but he's a free agent and may not return.
If the Commanders want to see what options are available in free agency, Sebastian Joseph-Day ticks a lot of boxes. Things didn't go well for the Tennessee Titans last season, but the defensive lineman was one of their few bright spots. Should he test free agency, Washington should examine his credentials more closely.
Commanders could sign Jalen Tolbert
Although there should be a strong focus on improving the defense, and rightfully so, the Commanders need to provide quarterback Jayden Daniels with the firepower needed to excel moving forward. This all starts in the wide receiver room.
There are several unknowns right now. Terry McLaurin, Jaylin Lane, and Luke McCaffrey are under contract, but questions remain about the status of several others. Not everyone will return, and if Deebo Samuel Sr. doesn't get a new deal, this need will only grow.
Jalen Tolbert didn't build on his encouraging 2024 campaign with the Dallas Cowboys, but that was due to circumstances outside of his control. Washington's bitter rival traded for George Pickens, which sent him further down the pecking order. He's probably looking for a fresh start, and head coach Dan Quinn knows him well from their time together.