The Washington Commanders are constantly being touted as a potential destination for free agents and even for some players still under contract elsewhere.
General manager Adam Peters has stayed relatively calm, giving those around a chance to shine at OTAs before deciding if anything more is required. But if he feels like it's the best solution, he won't hesitate to shake things up.
One of the most overlooked potential problems is at the cornerback position.
Commanders could bolster cornerback depth with Rasul Douglas signing
Peters prioritized the defensive front seven, which should make the secondary's job easier. Daronte Jones' new schematic concepts should also help, but another productive veteran corner might be sought to bolster depth and add an extra sense of security to the equation.
Looking at the options currently looking for work, Rasul Douglas is among the most intriguing.
He's been a dependable performer in coverage for years, stemming from his breakout with the Carolina Panthers in 2020 before going on to succeed elsewhere. And for the cost of bringing him on board, it's worth considering.
Douglas is on the wrong side of 30 now. He remains productive, though nobody really stood out for a torrid Miami Dolphins defense last season. It's the type of signing Peters has moved away from this offseason, but it might help plug a short-term hole in the rotation.
The Commanders are expected to place Trey Amos and Mike Sainristil as the boundary tandem. Amik Robertson is setting the correct tone at OTAs, and Ahkello Witherspoon could also feature if he stays healthy. Washington is also reportedly experimenting with Quan Martin at nickel, which adds another fascinating dynamic to watch over the summer.
If Martin stays in the slot, these five might suffice. Then again, it might not.
Douglas also has inside-out versatility. Getting the chance to play with a better supporting cast could be enough to galvanize his career, but there is just no way to say for certain whether he's what Washington is looking for.
According to Spotrac, the 2017 third-round pick out of West Virginia is expected to get a one-year, $4.01 million deal. This projection was probably made just before free agency began. There's a good chance he'd be willing to accept less for a shot in Washington, and there is more than enough money available to acquire Douglas and not jeopardize the possibility of more moves.
There is a lot at stake for the Commanders next season. There is a nice mix of youth and experience across the roster, but the cornerback position has more unknowns than most. Adding Douglas may not move the needle all that much, but he's got more proven production than most under contract right now.
Whether that makes him a legitimate target is another matter.
