New offensive coordinator David Blough dropped a big hint about his desire for improvements to the running back room this offseason. And the Washington Commanders have cash to spend in free agency to make the rookie play-caller's dream become a reality.
Blough is confident that Jacory Croskey-Merritt can continue to progress after his outstanding first season in Washington. The Commanders should also know that the seventh-round pick cannot do it alone, so general manager Adam Peters may take a swing at a legitimate three-down force to take the pressure off quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Javonte Williams is no longer a possibility after he signed a multi-year extension with the Dallas Cowboys. Still, one NFL analyst thought the Commanders should consider Breece Hall if the New York Jets cannot work out an agreement.
Commanders named among potential suitors for Breece Hall in free agency
Nick Brinkerhoff of USA Today named Washington among the potential suitors for Hall, who fits the sort of mold Peters should be looking for this offseason. The analyst also believes this represents a significant upgrade over anything the Commanders currently have in their backfield.
"Washington will ultimately go as far as Jayden Daniels takes them, but [Breece] Hall would bring an element that they haven't had since the quarterback's arrival. The 24-year-old running back would make for a seamless fit and be a major upgrade to one of the weaker running back rooms in the league on paper."Nick Brinkerhoff
Hall is a dual-threat with 5,040 yards from scrimmage in four seasons. He looked like a superstar as a rookie before getting hurt, but he's been relatively durable ever since. The Jets will probably make an effort to keep him around. Even so, this would also be a good time to branch out, get paid, and join a team with better-looking fortunes.
Adding Hall to Washington's backfield would be a mouthwatering proposition next to Daniels. However, acquiring the former Iowa State standout is not expected to be cheap.
According to Spotrac, the 2022 second-round pick is projected to get $10.39 million per season on a four-year, $41.56 million deal. Paying running backs always comes with risk, but Hall's got his best ahead, and he's only just entering his prime.
The Commanders should have more than $100 million available in free agency once the required moves are made. That gives them the luxury of spending on a player with Hall's credentials, but Washington will no doubt face competition for the player's services if they go in this direction.
It'll be interesting to see what unfolds, but the Commanders need more firepower in their running back room. That's not up for discussion.