The Washington Commanders defied expectations to reach the NFC Championship game in year one under head coach Dan Quinn. What's important now is building on this positivity surge for a sustainable future.
Losing to the Philadelphia Eagles was disappointing, if not entirely unexpected. The Commanders were no match in the trenches and their costly individual errors were punished by the eventual Super Bowl champions en route to shipping 55 points.
It was a harsh lesson for this new squad. It also gave Adam Peters plenty to ponder heading into his second recruitment period.
Peters got way more than he bargained for after gutting the roster last year. He's well-positioned to strengthen the ranks with cap space and draft picks in 2025. Fans are expecting big changes again, but this time with supreme trust attached.
Washington is an attractive destination after years of languishing in the football wilderness. Players are actively seeking out the Commanders rather than turning away at the first sign of interest. Peters can be selective to a certain extent, so striking with conviction is key.
Nothing should be off the table, including examining players within the division who might assist moving forward. With this in mind, here are seven free agents the Commanders could steal from their NFC East rivals in 2025.
Free agents the Commanders could steal from NFC East rivals in 2025
Commanders could sign Josh Sweat
The Washington Commanders need to fortify the trenches to stand any chance of dethroning the Philadelphia Eagles. If they can weaken their primary divisional danger along the way, the better their chances will be.
Generating more pressure would be a good place to start. The Commanders need a genuine pass-rushing threat to go alongside Dorance Armstrong Jr. on the defensive front. Acquiring someone with proven production who can assist immediately won't be cheap, but it's a risk worth taking.
Speculation continues to rise about the Commanders going all in for Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett. While that will get them a lot closer, the compensation would be eye-watering. If Adam Peters decides to go down the free agency route, Josh Sweat's name will come up pretty quickly.
Sweat earned himself a ton of money this season and throughout Philadelphia's playoff run. He caused havoc in the Super Bowl, highlighting his ability to come through in the biggest moments. Although positive for the Eagles, they don't possess the financial resources to keep everyone happy this offseason.
If the Eagles decide to let Sweat test free agency, he'll have a robust market. The Commanders could decide to make him an enticing offer and see if they can lure the Florida State product to D.C.