While the Washington Commanders' search for a new defensive coordinator continues, it's never too early to focus on the offseason ahead. Specifically, it's sure to be a busy free agency period for Adam Peters.
The Commanders have the sixth-most salary cap space in the NFL at just over $67 million. They have 30 players on expiring contracts, the vast majority of whom should not be re-signed. Suffice to say, Washington's roster is going to look significantly different in 2026.
If the Commanders are going to bounce back from their disappointing campaign, Peters will need to address issues quickly. That starts with bringing in a multitude of new starters on the defensive side of the ball.
Commanders need a complete defensive overhaul in 2026
When Peters first assumed general manager duties, the Commanders were in a similar situation to the one they are in now. They'd won four games the prior year but had all of the cap space in the world. The new general manager responded by bringing a who's who of aging former Pro Bowlers to Washington, who helped guide the team to the NFC Championship game.
It shows that change can happen quickly in the NFL. It's a year-to-year league. While the Commanders struggled mightily this season, their intentions should remain set on competing for a playoff spot in 2026.
They have no time to waste while Jayden Daniels is on his rookie deal. Head coach Dan Quinn will also be coaching to save his job.
The Commanders' defense, which finished 27th in points allowed, dead last in yards allowed, and 31st in takeaways, needs a total reset. Aside from cornerbacks Trey Amos and Mike Sainristil, linebacker Jordan Magee, and defensive end Dorance Armstrong Jr., no other defensive player on Washington's roster should have an uncontested starting spot.
Some of the moves are no-brainers. Marshon Lattimore will be cut. Bobby Wagner, if he doesn't retire, should be let go. Peters should actively shop Daron Payne to attempt to re-acquire some draft capital, and bring in at least one new safety to start over Quan Martin.
Other decisions will be more difficult.
Do you consider making Frankie Luvu available for trade? Do you cut Will Harris? How do you handle the Javon Kinlaw problem?
All are signed for 2026 but had underwhelming seasons. Peters needs to operate on the principle of seeking replacements wherever possible.
In finding those alternatives, Peters also can't make the same mistake he made two years ago, which yielded Washington short-term gains but long-term consequences. Instead of aging veterans, he needs to zero in on players whose rookie deals have just expired and are hitting the open market for the first time — players who can help the Commanders for years to come.
It's not going to be easy. But as 2024 taught us, it's possible.
Peters has turned the Commanders' ship around before. He'll need to do it again when the recruitment period commences.