It's evident that general manager Adam Peters wants to improve the Washington Commanders' pass-rushing options this offseason. And with cash to spend in free agency, the time to be aggressive has arrived.
Peters will have a list of potential free-agent targets who may or may not hit the market. The front-office leader will also be keeping a close eye on developments across the league, with possible options coming to the fore once they are released to ease salary-cap burdens.
That is a more fluid situation. But there is a new target there for the taking that warrants further discussion between those in power.
Commanders should add Bradley Chubb to their shortlist after Dolphins cut ties
According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Miami Dolphins are releasing two-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Bradley Chubb. His contract restructure made this a realistic scenario at some stage during the offseason. Now, the AFC East club has opted to bite the bullet and eat a substantial dead-cap figure to provide financial flexibility down the road.
The Dolphins are taking on $23.85 million in dead money by making Chubb surplus to requirements. There are injury concerns, but the former North Carolina State standout played a full 17-game slate in 2025, gaining 8.5 sacks in difficult circumstances.
Perhaps more important for the Commanders is Chubb's experience in a 3-4 front. That is what most experts believe Washington is moving to under new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones. For this gamble to succeed, the options at his disposal need to be significantly upgraded.
Chubb will be 30 years old before the 2026 campaign arrives. That will raise alarm bells to fans, especially how Peters' bet on aging veterans blew up in his face last season. Still, there is enough to suggest that the 2018 first-round pick can thrive next time around.
Players typically need a full year to get back to their old selves after a long-term injury. Chubb will be stronger and more confident in 2026. The flashes were enough to suggest that a profitable year could be on the way, and this looks like a great fit in Washington within a scheme that will know how to maximize his skill set.
Acquiring Chubb won't solve every problem, and the Commanders wouldn't be the only ones throwing their hat in the ring in this scenario. They have enough money to make the player a decent offer. He'd also be a likely focal point defensively, which he might not necessarily get elsewhere.
It'll be interesting to see the route Peters takes, but Chubb should be added to the shortlist after his hasty departure from Miami.