Noah Igbinoghene - Commanders CB
Despite being the subject of trade speculation before the campaign and the 2025 deadline, the Washington Commanders opted to keep Noah Igbinoghene around. That decision proved correct, especially after the cornerback room was decimated by injuries to key personnel.
Marshon Lattimore tore his ACL and is probably done in Washington. Second-round rookie Trey Amos' encouraging first season came to an abrupt halt with a knee complication. That surged Igbinoghene from the fringes into a starting role once again.
There have been flashes of real promise from Igbinoghene. Unfortunately, these are less frequent than during his time as a starter in 2024. The former Auburn standout seems to lack confidence, which won't go unnoticed by general manager Adam Peters during his ongoing roster assessments ahead of a critical offseason.
His targets allowed, passer rating when targeted, and yards per completion conceded are all up drastically from last year. This might be a good time to let Igbinoghene take his chances elsewhere.
Jeremy McNichols - Commanders RB
Washington's running back dynamic might be worth another look in 2026. Chris Rodriguez Jr. continues to shine when his number is called. Seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt could be a feature once again in 2026 with some extra polish to his overall game. Although Jeremy McNichols has limitations, he's a core special-teams presence and widely respected in the Commanders' locker room.
That might result in another one-year deal from the franchise this spring. However, it could just as easily go the other way if general manager Adam Peters decides that more is needed in the backfield alongside quarterback Jayden Daniels.
McNichols, like many players, is now on the wrong side of 30. That is ancient by running back standards, so the Commanders could add another productive option with fresher legs to form a prolific tandem with Croskey-Merrit, and if Rodriguez receives another commitment.
It'll be an anxious wait for McNichols after the campaign concludes. And his future could legitimately go either way.
Bobby Wagner - Commanders LB
The Commanders' surge to the NFC Championship game last season wouldn't have happened without Bobby Wagner. His experience, poise, and ability to teach quickly became a driving force on and off the field. He raised standards considerably, and Washington rightfully gave him another one-year deal for his exceptional contribution.
Things haven't been so smooth sailing this time around. Wagner is still a supreme force in between the tackles and when tasked with generating pressure. Unfortunately, the future first ballot Pro Football Hall of Famer is vulnerable when isolated these days, especially in coverage. Opposing teams have actively exploited this as a weak link, a sign that Father Time may have finally caught up to him.
Wagner will be 36 years old next season. The Commanders need to get younger and more explosive on defense. Nothing has been confirmed, but it would be a surprise if another deal were offered at season's end.