It's going to be a busy offseason for the Washington Commanders. Adam Peters will need to address the many holes on a roster that was one of the NFL's most disappointing in 2025.
Washington went 5-12, falling woefully short of their Super Bowl aspirations and playoff expectations. Cracks in the group Peters put together began to show, namely that the Commanders were simply too old.
Now, it's time to fix the mistakes that led to the collapse, some of which have easier solutions than others. One will require a close look.
Commanders have a tough dilemma on their hands with Will Harris
Strong safety Will Harris was one of Washington's marquee free agency signings of 2025, earning himself a two-year deal worth $8 million. He missed eight games with a fractured fibula, and even when healthy, he was largely a non-factor. He recorded one sack, one forced fumble, and 38 tackles on the campaign.
Between Harris and 2023 second-round pick Quan Martin, Washington's production — or lack thereof — at safety was one of its biggest weaknesses.
Ideally, Peters will go about solving that this offseason by signing one new face and drafting another, potentially Ohio State prospect Caleb Downs at No. 7 overall. Additionally, the trusty special teams veteran Jeremy Reaves should remain in the fold as insurance.
Martin, who is entering the final year of his rookie deal, should be reduced to a backup role and could end up being a preseason cut candidate. With Harris, it's a bit more complicated.
His cap hit for 2026 is $5 million. Harris would cost Washington $1 million in dead money if released, while saving $3.76 million.
It's an option, but not the only one.
Harris could also potentially be a trade candidate as Peters looks to re-acquire some of the draft capital he lost in deals for Marshon Lattimore, Deebo Samuel Sr., and Laremy Tunsil. Aside from the five-time Pro Bowl left tackle, as well as defensive end Dorance Armstrong Jr., any veteran on a deal with one year remaining should be made available.
There is also the option of letting Harris finish out his contract, banking on improvement, ideally in a healthier Year 2 under a new defensive coordinator. In this case, the move is drafting Downs to replace Martin at free safety, and sign someone who can compete with the Boston College product.
There will be no shortage of choices when it comes to Harris. We'll see which route Peters goes with.