General manager Adam Peters was a busy man over his third recruitment period with the Washington Commanders. Most fans were anticipating aggressive moves, and the front office leader delivered. The roster looks a lot stronger now, but there is still hard work ahead.
Peters is in no position to settle. The Commanders have an enormous amount at stake in 2026, with head coach Dan Quinn unlikely to survive another poor campaign. And with plenty of salary-cap space remaining, most fans and figures in the media are expecting more moves in the weeks and months ahead.
Just when they'll arrive is anyone's guess. But if Peters believes the right opportunities exist, he won't hesitate to do what's required to help the Commanders get back on the right path.
With this in mind, here are eight free-agent gambles the Commanders should consider to increase competition heading into a crucial preparation period.
Free agent gambles the Washington Commanders should consider before it's too late
Commanders could sign Jeff Okudah
The Commanders are higher on their cornerback unit than the consensus. Adam Peters deprioritized this area of the field throughout the offseason, opting to make significant enhancements to the defensive front seven. That should make things easier, but those in coverage must also make the desired improvements.
Washington brought back Antonio Hamilton Sr. recently. He played well on special teams last season and could push for the 53-man roster alongside Mike Sainristil, Trey Amos, Amik Robertson, and Ahkello Witherspoon. Even that might not be enough, so checking in on Jeff Okudah wouldn't be the worst idea in the world at this juncture.
Okudah worked with Daronte Jones last season on the Minnesota Vikings. He may not have lived up to his top-three draft billing — primarily down to injuries — but with a clear run of good health, he could have something to offer.
Commanders could sign Yetur Gross-Matos
Washington is projected to switch to a 3-4 base front under Daronte Jones. Adam Peters worked tirelessly to fortify the edge-rushing options, and defensive lineman Tim Settle Jr. was acquired to bolster the interior. That might be enough for now, but the presence of Yetur Gross-Matos still sitting on the free-agent market brings intrigue.
Gross-Matos has dealt with injuries in recent years. He's flashed immense promise, and his edge-setting against the run is outstanding at full health. He's also got the size to operate as a 3-4 outside linebacker or 3-4 defensive end, which is something Jones could put to good use in this scenario.
Add us as a preferred source on Google