Commanders could sign Bryan Cook
- Projected contract: 4 years, $56.76 million
As previously mentioned, the Washington Commanders need to revamp their safety options urgently. Daronte Jones could be running a 3-4 or 2-5 defensive base, which requires versatility and athleticism across the secondary. Simply put, the franchise doesn't have anyone like that on the back end right now.
A young option via the draft would be a cost-effective way to rectify this issue. However, if Jones wants this massive opportunity to go well, an accomplished presence with proven NFL credentials in the highest stakes should be among his top objectives.
Bryan Cook is another prized free agent the Kansas City Chiefs may not be able to retain amid their current financial plight. He's an electrifying safety with all the tools to fit seamlessly into Jones's scheme. The former Cincinnati Bearcat's influence has increased over the last two seasons, and he's a two-time Super Bowl winner at just 26 years old.
This would be a major statement of intent, but the queue of suitors would be large if Cook hit the market.
Commanders could sign Logan Hall
Projected contract: 3 years, $23.93 million
Even though reports suggest that the Commanders are going to let Daron Payne play out the final year of his deal before deciding on further action, more is needed on the defensive line interior. Javon Kinlaw's big-money move to Washington began horribly. Johnny Newtoon looks like a pass-rush specialist and nothing more. As for the rest? They can easily be disposed of.
The Commanders already have a lot of cash tied into this area of the field, so general manager Adam Peters needs to be smart with any potential free-agent additions. But considering what it might cost to lure Logan Hall to Washington, it's a definite option to consider.
Hall spent time at both defensive end and as an interior presence throughout his four years with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He's grown as a run defender and can also get into the backfield quickly, which is precisely what Washington needs if Daronte Jones switches to a 3-4 base alignment.
Commanders could sign Arnold Ebiketie
- Projected contract: 3 years, $27.03 million
It would be wise for the Commanders to acquire several edge defenders to improve their pass-rush. Texas Tech prospect David Bailey remains a hot name being linked to Washington at No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, but that won't be enough.
Dorance Armstrong Jr. is the only consistent asset Washington has currently, and he's coming off what head coach Dan Quinn described as a significant knee injury. Javontae Jean-Baptiste and free-agent Jacob Martin have rotational upside, but that's about it.
Although he may not have ever set the world alight in terms of sacks, Arnold Ebikete is a well-rounded edge threat. His physicality against the run is renowned, and his speed-to-power moves can cause problems for opposing offensive linemen. With the Atlanta Falcons moving forward with Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. as their pass-rushing tandem, the 2022 second-round pick should be available when the legal tampering period commences.