The Washington Commanders made a big decision by letting top edge rusher Dante Fowler Jr. leave in 2025 free agency. He gained 10.5 sacks on their run to the NFC Championship game and became a prolific force in the right situations. Unfortunately, general manager Adam Peters was unwilling to match the Dallas Cowboys' offer.
Things did not go well for Fowler in Dallas, which was surprising. They went in different directions this spring, leaving the veteran facing an uncertain future. It was a long wait on the proverbial free-agent scrapheap, but another opportunity has now arrived.
And in all honesty, it couldn't be a better one.
Foormer Commanders edge rusher Dante Fowler Jr. gets exceptional opportunity
According to Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network, the Seattle Seahawks have signed Fowler to a one-year deal worth up to $5 million, with incentives. Not exactly earth-shattering money, and far less than the player was demanding to stick around in Washington last offseason. However, it gives him the chance to contribute to the defending Super Bowl champion's bid to repeat next season.
There are far worse places Fowler could have ended up, that's for sure. One suspects it didn't take him long to approve the move when an approach was made to his representation. But after three sacks and 15 tackles in 11 games for the Cowboys last season, a significant push is required over the summer to turn the tide.
Looking at the money Seattle's given to Fowler, he'll still need to force his way into the team's plans. His deficiencies against the run indicate he'll probably be set for a situational edge rushing role once again, but he'll need to impress quickly on a young, aggressive defense riding on the crest of their Super Bowl-winning wave.
As for the Commanders? They prioritized the pass-rush this offseason, which was desperately needed. Odafe Oweh, K'Lavon Chaisson, Charles Omenihu, and Joshua Josephs join Dorance Armstrong Jr., who is making encouraging progress from a serious knee injury. With new coordinator Daronte Jones switching to a 3-4 base front and implementing creative ways to scheme pressure, all signs are pointing up.
Fowler was always going to be a short-term rental in Washington. He wasn't happy about not getting the money he wanted after a double-digit sack campaign. Peters was vindicated by his underperformance last season, which likely places the No. 3 overall selection in the 2015 NFL Draft in the last chance saloon with the Seahawks.
This surprising lifeline is something Fowler cannot waste. Otherwise, his time in the league might be done.
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