The Washington Commanders are expected to be aggressive in free agency. General manager Adam Peters must rightfully prioritize the defensive reinforcements, but adding to the firepower around quarterback Jayden Daniels should also be high on his list of priorities.
This is no more evident than at the tight end position. There are too many unknowns to stand pat, and a forgotten former Maryland star could be a risk worth taking if he gets the chance to test the free agency market.
Veteran Zach Ertz has been a magnificent asset to the Commanders over the last two years. His leadership was integral behind the scenes. His on-field connection with Daniels gave the dynamic signal-caller a strong security blanket across the middle and in the red zone.
Commanders should consider taking a swing at Chigoziem Okonkwo in free agency
Unfortunately, Ertz's time in Washington appears to be over. The three-time Pro Bowler isn't getting any younger. His departure always seemed likely, but tearing his ACL in Week 14 against the Minnesota Vikings all but confirmed it.
Ben Sinnott cannot be trusted to take his place right now. His responsibilities didn't increase all that much when Ertz went down, and new offensive coordinator David Blough said the 2024 second-round pick has a long way to go. John Bates is a blocking specialist, and a pretty good one. Colson Yankoff looks nothing more than a roster bubble candidate who could potentially assist on special teams.
More is required. And even though it's risky, targeting someone like Chigoziem Okonkwo in free agency could be worth its weight in gold.
Okonkwo starred for the nearby Terrapins en route to becoming a fourth-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. He's been a solid if not spectacular performer for the Tennessee Titans over the last four years, accumulating 194 receptions from 272 targets for 2,017 receiving yards and eight touchdowns in four seasons. Not exactly world-class numbers, but they are solid enough when one considers the AFC South club's overall struggles.
At 26 years old, this is the sort of player Washington should be aiming to acquire.
Peters needs to move away from aging veterans who are past their peak. He needs to find players coming off their rookie contracts who could provide hope for the future as well as the present. Okonkwo's age, consistency as a pass-catcher, and scope for further growth make him an enticing proposition if he gets the chance to test the open market.
With a market projection of $7.96 million per season on a three-year deal, this is also financially viable for the Commanders. Other options will be considered, but Peters could do far worse than examine Okonkwo's credentials in greater detail.