The Washington Commanders did a solid job this offseason filling in some holes, especially on the defensive side. Free agency and the draft improved the roster, but the Commanders could still use some depth.
ESPN's Matt Bowen highlighted his top remaining free agents, and safety Donovan Wilson was listed. Although Washington added Nick Cross in free agency, they could still use some more assistance on the backend.
The Commanders do have Quan Martin returning, but after an up-and-down three seasons, he's entering a crucial campaign. The idea of adding Wilson makes sense. He also has ties to head coach Dan Quinn, who was his defensive coordinator with the Dallas Cowboys.
Commanders could gamble on Donovan Wilson regaining form under Dan Quinn
The connection is meaningful since Wilson was very productive playing under Quinn. In 41 games (33 starts), the defensive back totaled 218 tackles, six pass breakups, five sacks, and three interceptions. Not only was he making plays, but Quinn was moving him around, lining him up at free safety and in the box.
He was an effective player, which is why the Commanders might sign him. Once Quinn left Dallas and headed to Washington, Wilson saw his production decrease in two consecutive seasons. That's concerning.
Last season, the Texas A&M product finished with 71 tackles and five pass breakups. Wilson also posted career lows in overall grade (50.8) and coverage grade (38.8), according to Pro Football Focus.
Wilson needs a change of scenery, and Quinn is the ideal coach to help the 31-year-old return to a competent level. The Commanders wouldn't be looking for him to be a starter, but more of a rotational piece.
Martin had some serious trouble in 2025, failing to reach his breakout hype and gradually being phased out of the lineup. Will Harris was another safety who got run in 2025, logging 560 defensive snaps. But he never looked healthy after coming back from an early injury sustained in Week 3 against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Neither player did enough to guarantee playing time in 2026 and will need to bring their best foot forward this summer. Adding Wilson would only add depth and competition to the room. It also wouldn't cost much at this stage of the offseason, and Washington is sitting on $43.73 million in available cap space.
They have the funds to add him. With Washington's mandatory minicamp set for June 16-18, the Commanders should consider this option to get him acclimated before training camp begins.
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