The new league year has begun. As expected, general manager Adam Peters got to work on deals he believes can help the Washington Commanders advance in 2025.
Peters didn't think too much of the marquee names at the top of the market. The Commanders made one big splash, signing defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw to a three-year, $45 million deal with $30 million guaranteed. It was relatively quiet aside from that initially, with Washington focusing attention on keeping key members around who made a lasting contribution to the team's playoff run.
This is the stage of free agency where Peters will be more active. Finding value with proven performers who want to join a contender is where the Commanders can maximize the remaining veteran pool. This is an attractive destination with its Super Bowl window. It came as no surprise to see a flurry of activity on Day 3 of free agency as Washington looks to mold a competitive roster capable of going deep into the postseason once again.
With this in mind, we took a look and graded the latest five Commanders' signings in 2025 free agency. We'll start with versatile safety Will Harris.
Grading the latest five Commanders' signings in 2025 free agency
Commanders signed Will Harris
It was widely expected that Jeremy Chinn and the Washington Commanders would reach a compromise regarding a contract extension. The standout safety galvanized his career under Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr., gaining 117 tackles and becoming an ever-present during a campaign fans won't forget in a hurry.
Whether it was the money or the contract length, something was amiss. The Commanders let Chinn walk to the Las Vegas Raiders on a two-year deal. Peters pivoted quickly, securing the services of Will Harris on a two-year contract that could be worth up to $8 million.
Harris is a like-for-like replacement. He might be older and less explosive than Chinn, but his performances for the New Orleans Saints last season suggest he might have something to offer.
This shouldn't stop the Commanders from finding another talented safety via the college ranks depending on their assessments. It also doesn't take the pressure off their young safeties such as Tyler Owens and Percy Butler to make the improvements needed. What this does provide is a dependable veteran to replace Chinn in a similar role.
- Signing grade: B
In an ideal world, the Commanders would have kept Chinn. Peters isn't going to overpay for anybody as part of his business-first mindset. The fact Harris signed so quickly indicates the former second-round pick's departure was always a possibility.
Time will tell if it's the right call.