Commanders could sign Odafe Oweh
- Projected contract: 3 years, $57.92 million
Adding to the team's edge rushing options should be Adam Peters' biggest objective above all else. The Washington Commanders gambled on aging veterans past their prime this time last year, and it blew up spectacularly. A shift in approach is needed to avoid similar complications in a critical third season for head coach Dan Quinn.
There could be some outstanding options available for the Commanders. They have to get younger and more athletic, and that starts on the defensive edge. If the Los Angeles Chargers let Odafe Oweh test the market, Washington could throw its hat into the ring.
Oweh was traded to the Chargers before the deadline and quickly became a revelation under Jim Harbaugh. His explosiveness, bend, and relentless motor would be a breath of fresh air in Washington. Acquiring him wouldn't be cheap, and there would be significant interest in his services, but the Commanders have to shoot their shot.
Commanders could sign Quay Walker
- Projected contract: 3 years, $24.86 million
With prolific veteran linebacker Bobby Wagner set to either retire or take his chances elsewhere in free agency, the Commanders need to find an adequate replacement. Going down the draft route with someone like Arvell Reese or Sonny Styles is an option, but adding to the second-level with an ascending free agent may also be something for general manager Adam Peters to contemplate.
That brings Quay Walker under the microscope. He fits the mold as a dynamic tone-setter who thrives against the run and on blitz packages. There are some coverage deficiencies to address, but he's young enough to make the desired improvements under defensive coordinator Daronte Jones' exceptional guidance.
The Packers are currently projected to be $1.4 million over the cap. Some tough decisions are coming, and Walker may be allowed to leave. The Commanders should monitor this situation closely, as it could be a viable option alongside Frankie Luvu and Jordan Magee.
Commanders could sign Jaylen Watson
- Projected contract: 3 years, $37.42 million
Adding to the cornerback unit is another essential task for the Commanders to complete this offseason. Trey Amos and Mike Sainristil will be on the squad in Week 1, but nobody else can say with any assurance they will have the same privilege.
Marshon Lattimore appears to be an inevitable cut, with $18.5 million in savings attached. Jonathan Jones, Noah Igbinoghene, and Antonio Hamilton Sr. are all free agents and may not return. Amos and Sainristil represent the younger generation, so having an accomplished presence in coverage is critical.
It might be worth keeping an eye on Jaylen Watson's situation with the Kansas City Chiefs. He's an outstanding young player with the size and length that Daronte Jones should be looking for. The AFC West club is also projected to be $54.53 million over the cap right now.
Unless the Chiefs make some significant maneuvers, they won't have enough to keep Watson around. In this scenario, the Commanders should be on the phone immediately.