7 salary-cap cut candidates Commanders should monitor before 2025 free agency

The Commanders must explore every avenue for improvements.
Jaire Alexander
Jaire Alexander | Mark Hoffman / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
4 of 4

Commanders should monitor Davante Adams

  • Wide Receiver | New York Jets

Aaron Rodgers won't be part of the New York Jets' plans moving forward. The veteran quarterback was informed by the new regime that his services won't be required, making him an expensive cap casualty with an expected post-June 1 designation.

There will be ripple effects. Wide receiver Davante Adams won't be sticking around at MetLife Stadium without his close friend under center. Teams won't be giving up compensation for someone they know is going to be cut. Once this officially gets confirmed, that's when interest will arrive.

Adams isn't getting any younger, but he's still an exceptional route technician. The Washington Commanders could target the All-Pro as someone capable of making a difference over short-to-intermediate routes within Kliff Kingsbury's scheme. He might want to follow Rodgers to his next destination. There's also the small matter of his previous comments about the team's facilities and fanbase as reasons to suggest it's a non-starter.

It's a different Washington operation these days. They have a legitimate franchise quarterback and a real shot of perennial contention. That could entice Adams enough if the money works for all parties.

This would be nothing more than a short-term agreement if the Commanders showed interest. But make no mistake, they are ready to win now.

Commanders should monitor Dalvin Tomlinson

  • Defensive Tackle | Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns' decision to trade for quarterback Deshaun Watson and give him a fully guaranteed contract is quickly becoming the worst transaction in NFL history. With the signal-caller set to miss most if not all of the 2025 campaign, the AFC North club looks set to hit the reset button.

They could draft a quarterback at No. 2 overall. The Browns could sign a veteran like Kirk Cousins or Aaron Rodgers if they want to compete right now. Either way, their salary-cap situation doesn't exactly scream stability.

Cleveland needs to consolidate. They don't want to trade Myles Garrett but expect to see one or two veteran pieces depart the ranks ahead of time. Dalvin Tomlinson is rumored to be on the chopping block — something the Commanders could benefit greatly from.

Tomlinson does everything well. He's a stout presence to move against the run. He generates pressure consistently for a man his size. The motor is high and he's emerged as a prominent leadership presence throughout his career.

This is the exact type of player Washington needs for its defensive front. Tomlinson brings nastiness and energy. He's also not one to back down from a challenge, which the Commanders need to stand up to the Eagles next season.

More Commanders news and analysis