Watching the Washington Commanders fall short in the trenches to the Philadelphia Eagles, who steamrolled their way to another Super Bowl soon after, gave Adam Peters a wake-up call. Something the general manager is urgently trying to rectify based on his early moves this offseason.
It was a harsh lesson learned for the Commanders. They had enough to suffice en route to blowing away even the brightest optimist's expectations in 2024. But when it came to coping with the NFL's elite, they were often found wanting.
Peters recognized this and reacted accordingly. The Commanders' trench warfare mentality throughout the opening stages of free agency was obvious. A trend he continued with another experienced run-stuffing standout on their defensive edge.
Commanders continue defensive line regeneration with Deatrich Wise Jr. signing
According to reports, the Commanders signed Deatrich Wise Jr. to a one-year deal that could be worth up to $5 million. This was the second player scooped from the New England Patriots after cornerback Jonathan Jones came on board shortly before.
Wise is a seven-year veteran, all of which have been spent in New England. He's a Super Bowl winner capable of generating pressure when required. More importantly for the Commanders, he sets a clean edge against the run and leaves his mark from a tackling standpoint.
That's exactly what the Commanders were looking for. They gave up so many big outside runs last season. Saquon Barkey and many others feasted on Washington's lackluster run defense on their front four. That cannot happen again if Peters wants his squad to impact proceedings deep into the playoffs with a tougher schedule.
The former fourth-round pick saw his role diminish slightly with the Patriots last season. Wise still managed five sacks and 29 tackles on a struggling defense, which is pleasing. He also hasn't missed a tackle in two years according to Pro Football Reference.
There is a definite trend regarding Washington's signings so far. Peters is opting for experience — the average age of those signed or acquired by trade is 30. That's a risk to a certain extent, but it fits into the team's current window for contention.
Finding the sort of players who can fit into the team's newly established culture under head coach Dan Quinn is also important. The Commanders have no room for passengers of malcontents. They want professionals capable of slotting in quickly and enhancing the team's mindset. Wise ticks those boxes having made his way through the Patriots under Bill Belichick.
It's a good start, but more is needed. The Commanders need a dynamic pass-rusher. They need help at the wide receiver position despite acquiring Deebo Samuel Sr. Trading for prolific left tackle Laremy Tunsil doesn't solve the team's depth issues on the offensive line. There is still a lot to get through before organized team activities begin.
Wise should help plug a gap. Whether that's from a rotational standpoint or as Clelin Ferrell's replacement opposite Dorance Armstrong Jr. remains to be seen, but this looks like a solid addition based on his previous production and overall strengths.